Steadfast Trust

STEADFAST TRUST
Hebrews 11:1-31
Hebrews 11:3: “By faith we understand that the universe was formed by God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible”

All the provincial officials assembled for the dedication of the image King Nebuchadnezzar had set up, and stood before it.

The herald proclaimed, “This is what you are commanded to do, O peoples, nations and men of every language: As soon as you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes and all other kinds of music, you must fall down and worship the image of gold that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up. Whoever does not fall down and worship will immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace.” (Daniel 3:3-6).

Some astrologers tattled: “There are some Jews whom you have set over the affairs of the province of Babylon—Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego—who pay no attention to you, O king. They will neither serve your gods nor worship the image of gold you have set up.” (Daniel 3:12).

Furious, King Nebuchadnezzar brought the offending men before him. “Why won’t you follow my orders?”

“There’s no way we’d worship your stupid golden image—or serve your gods. If you throw us into your blazing furnace, and our God doesn’t rescue us, so what?”

“Very well—heat the furnace seven times hotter!” King Nebuchadnezzar ordered. “Find the strongest soldiers to tie up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.” When the men were helplessly bound, the king said, “Toss them inside!” (Paraphrased from Daniel 3:17-23).

The flames curled outside the furnace, the soldiers died who put Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the furnace. King Nebuchadnezzar leapt to his feet and gazed inside. “Weren’t there just three men tied up that were placed inside? I see four men walking around, unbound and unharmed—the fourth guy looks like a son of the gods!” He walked closer to the opening and yelled out, “Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego—come out at once!” (Paraphrased from Daniel 3:24-26).

The three men approached the king. Not one hair singed, their robes not scorched, no smell of fire on them. King Nebuchadnezzar applauded. “Praise the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—Who sent His angel to save these men—and from now on He’s the only God we’ll serve!” (Paraphrased from Daniel 3:28-30).

Take Home Nugget

Developing steadfast trust takes time. Convictions are nourished from a childlike faith when believing Jesus is God’s Son and accepting His gift of forgiveness of sins. This grows into knowledge of God and deepens our confidence in Him. Experiencing His protection, provision, and power in times of testing strengthens our loyalty and dependence on God.

Jesus assigns us the task of believing in Him (John 6:29).

J.D. Griffith

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