Scripture to Read: Daniel 3:7–12
As we know, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego had chosen to obey God and His Word, but it did not come without persecution. When we choose to obey God, no matter the cost, there will always be opposition. The enemy hates it when we are obedient to God and His Word. The enemy will use jealousy as a tool in the hearts of those who either do not know the Lord or who are immature believers who get caught up in their fleshly desires. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego’s accusers were jealous because these three young men were Jews who had been taken captive but had been appointed by Nebuchadnezzar over the administration of the province of Babylon. Our Lord reminds us in 1 Peter 4:12, “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you.” Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego were unwilling to compromise when it came to walking in right fellowship with God. Our Lord Jesus reminds us in Matthew 7:13–14 “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. 14 For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.” People who are lost in their sins are choosing the large gate and broad road, and as Jesus said, there are a lot more on that road than on the road of obedience to Him.
Challenge & Application
• Why were the men who brought the charges against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego jealous of them?
• What path had Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego chosen, and why is it important for us to do the same?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!