The Rock and a Hot Place

Posted by Dion Todd July 17th, 2024 1,225 Views 30 Comments

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered the king, "Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If it happens, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace; and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image which you have set up." Daniel 3:16-18 WEB.

While standing before the most powerful king on earth, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego had to make a tough decision. King Nebuchadnezzar had built a golden idol ninety feet high. Then he commanded everyone in his kingdom to bow down and worship it when the signal was given.

Obeying the king's order would mean disobeying God's command, to have no other gods except Him. Breaking the king's rule would land them in a white-hot furnace of fire. They were caught between The Rock and a hot place.

The three Israelites refused and told the king that the God they served was able to deliver them, but even if He did not, they would not bow down to his god. When faced with great evil and certain destruction, they chose to trust God and stood strong in their faith. In the end, God did deliver them, and they were promoted in the kingdom.

When darkness comes, it's not time to whine but time to shine. When you have done all you can, stand and believe that God will take care of the rest. And even if He does not, you will still do what is right. In the end, you will find that God always does what is best for you. So be calm, be patient. God is not dead, and this will soon pass. Even if you have to go into the furnace, God will meet you there.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you for everything You have done for me. Please help me to stand firm when faced with adversity. Please help me make the right decisions and be the one you called me to be. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen!

Note: Group of the Day: Fun with Electronics - This is Pastor Dion's technical group. Here we discuss computers, electronics, hardware, software, websites, wiring things, home theatre, wifi, drones and much more. All are welcome to join. No technical experience necessary. To join, just click on the group name and then the join link on the page that will follow. As always, if you have a prayer need, we are here for you! We and the prayer team are ready to lift you up at our private prayer page: RHM Prayer Network.