Faithfulness
By, Toni Smothers
Scripture Reading: Daniel 2:16-24
Scripture Quote: “If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty's hand.”
Daniel 3:17 (NIV)
Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, had a disturbing dream that caused him to seek council. His magicians, sorcerers and the like, could not give the king adequate answers. This led the king to order the execution of all the wise men in Babylon. However, there were a few truly wise men, especially one named, Daniel, who were followers of God.
God was merciful to Daniel and his friends who prayed with him by revealing the king's dream and it's interpretation. Daniel confessed to the king that he had no such wonderous powers by himself, but the highest praise was due his God for revealing these things to Daniel. So, as a result, the king spared the lives of Daniel and his praying friends. The king placed Daniel in a high position and lavished many gifts on him.
Further into the story we learn that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up an image of gold for all the people to fall down before and worship. Daniel’s three friends were not rebels, but they could only give their worship to their God. When faced with their disobedience, the king ordered them thrown into a blazing furnice. However, even the threat of death by fire did not move their steadfast faith in God. They were miraculously spared by God because of their faithfulness.
Today’s meditation: God rewards faith that is resolute.
Memory Verse: “Open the gates that the righteous nation may enter, the nation that keeps faith.” Isaiah 26:2 (NIV)