Read Daniel 3:19-25
Discover
1. What did Nebuchadnezzar’s rage provoke him to do?
2. How were Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego put into the furnace (see verses 21 and 23)?
3. What did Nebuchadnezzar see after they were thrown in?
Respond
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego made their stand and held firm. Now it was time to endure the king’s wrath. The furnace was cranked up seven times hotter than necessary, and the three friends were securely tied. Yet after they went into the furnace, a fourth man appeared – a physical demonstration of God’s presence with them.
In all of our lives, the “furnace” is inevitable. Whether we face pressure from culture, in relationships, in our homes, or workplaces, we can be confident that just like God’s presence was with these three men thousands of years ago, He’s with us now. If we interpret the “furnace” as God’s punishment, we’ll miss out on His presence.
What area of your life is under more heat than others right now? In the midst of it, are you letting God reveal Himself and refine who you’re becoming? Spend some time with Him in prayer, thanking Him for never leaving you alone in the fires of life. Confess where you’re struggling to see Him working, and ask for eyes to see.
Want to go deeper? Listen to this worship song, and let the lyrics prompt a prayer of gratitude for God’s presence in your circumstances.
*TPCC does not necessarily endorse all “Want to go deeper” sources. They are simply meant to be a helpful tool.