“There are certain Jews whom you have appointed over the administration of the province of Babylon, namely Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, These men, O king, have disregarded you; they do not serve your gods or worship the golden image which you have set up.” – Daniel 3:12
In today’s world it is ridiculously easy to conform to the cultural trends, habits and tendencies being promoted by the world. It seems that what is vogue or current is what people flock to, even if it goes against their morals and ethics. It certainly is a strange phenomenon from a Christian point-of-view.
Some examples are divorce, debt and depression. Divorce among “Christians” exceeds 50%, yet I have never met a Christian who has been through a divorce who is happy they did it. There is always an expression of some sort of remorse; either they feel like they let down their spouse or betrayed God. Over 95% of Americans are in debt yet we as a nation continue to overspend both in our personal lives and in our government. Depression is rapidly becoming the #1 health issue in our society. Stress in the family and workplace is driving many Americans to alcohol and drug abuse.
Yet when I read the Bible, especially today’s passage in Daniel, I quickly come to the realization that there is an option. Everyone, like Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, has the choice to behave God’s way or the world’s way. We have a choice to live according to the Scriptures or the world, to serve the devil or God. One will give us complete satisfaction whereas the other will add stress, worry and doubt to our lives. Choosing to live for God may be difficult, but it is both rewarding and satisfying, especially knowing Christ is walking with us through the flames!
So choose to honor your marriage. Draw out a plan to be debt-free. Decide to eliminate stress by living joyously with your eyes on Christ even in the midst of turmoil. Like these three heroes of faith, choose today whom you will serve, the gods of this world or the one true God.
In Christ,
Dave
Questions to Ponder:
1. Do a word study and discover what King Nebuchadnezzar’s name meant. I believe you will be pleasantly surprised!
2. Read the rest of the story in Daniel. What was the fate of King Nebuchadnezzar? And how does that relate to the Christian faith?
3. Who was the fourth person in the furnace with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego? (Daniel 3:24-25)
4. King Nebuchadnezzar wanted unity among his people by having them swear allegiance to him and his gods. How is this strikingly familiar to the “COEXIST” movement that is becoming so popular today?
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