Bible Chapter: Daniel 3 & 4

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
King Nebuchadnezzar made a gold statue ninety feet tall.  He ordered that when the musical signal was given everyone had to bow down and worship it.  Daniel’s three friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego had been given promotions to important governmental positions.  But they refused to bow down to a false god.  When he was told about their refusal, the king went into a rage.  He told them he would give them one more chance to bow down and worship the statue.  But if they refused, they would be thrown into a blazing furnace. Almost in a mocking way he asked what god will be able to rescue them from his power.  Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego responded that, no matter what, they would never bow to a false god.  They said God had the power to save them, but “if not”, they would still obey God.  That statement “if not” is a powerful message of their commitment to God.  It didn’t matter what Nebuchadnezzar threatened, they made it clear that they would never serve his gods or worship the gold statue he set up.  They were thrown into a furnace heated seven times hotter than normal, and God rescued them.
Then, King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream.  Daniel interpreted it.  Because of his pride, the king was going to live like a cow in the fields for seven years.  Daniel pleaded with the king to stop sinning and do what is right. But, he refused to change and all the things did happen to King Nebuchadnezzar.  One day he was taking a walk on the roof of the royal palace.  As he looked out, he said, “Look at this great city of Babylon! By my own mighty power, I have built this beautiful city as my royal residence to display my majestic splendor.”  God spoke to him and judged him.  For seven years he lived in the wild with the animals.  When God restored him he finally learned to honor God.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
I have known the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego for as long as I can remember. It is a powerful story of trusting God and not compromising.  And, their trust in God that brought them to the “if not” statement is awesome.  They had an eternal perspective.  They had seen God provide many miracles in their lives. Their commitment to God made them say that they would not worship a false god, no matter what the king threatened.  This is not only an inspiring story, it is a powerful example of the answer that must be given in the impossible times.  No compromise.

3.  How can I help someone?
The king’s dream shows the powerful impact of pride and the potential destruction pride can give.  Even if a person reaches the highest positions in life, they must remember that there is only one true God and that all praise must go to HIM.  Anything we accomplish is only with God’s help.