Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter.” Daniel 3:16 (NIV)
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were ordered by Nebuchadnezzar to bow to an idol. This went against everything they were raised to believe. As Israelites, they were taught to bow to one God and worship no other God besides him. Failure to do so would cost them their lives as they would be thrown into a fiery furnace. The three of them had a choice to make – they could obey God or obey man. They chose to obey God instead of man, even at the risk of losing their lives. Because they chose obedience to God, they didn’t need to defend themselves to others, including the king. God would be pleased with their obedience.
There may be times in our lives when we are asked to obey God in ways that seem unpopular. We may be asked to stand up for those less fortunate. We may be asked to stand up when someone is telling an inappropriate joke or gossiping about others. We may be asked to walk away from a relationship that is not honoring God. We may be asked to stop watching certain movies, listening to certain music or stop reading books that others are enjoying because they are weakening our faith and relationship with God. We can choose to obey God or man. Who will you choose to obey?
Prayer:
God, thank you that you know what is best even when I don’t understand. I choose to obey you even if my choice is unpopular. Help me to hear your voice and follow through in obedience to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.