Recently, I saw a wonderful production of Daniel. Elaborate costumes, live music, and even live animals walked down the aisles onto the stage. I empathized with the pressure Daniel and his companions—Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego—felt living in a foreign land filled with ungodly practices. From the moment they arrived, they faced decisions requiring firm conviction. Even their food choices reflected their values as they managed bodies they had dedicated to God. I wonder if I would be that strong in a challenging situation.

But the trial of living away from home grew more intense than choosing food for their meals. After King Nebuchadnezzar, a proud and godless man, built a gold image representing himself, hate-filled enemies sent news to the king stating the men’s refusal to bow down.

“What God will rescue you from the punishment of fire?” the king asked.

Once again, the three men publically denounced the king and honored the one true God.

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. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”

 ~Daniel 3:17-18 NIV

 As a result, the king had the three men seized, bound, and thrown into the fiery furnace. The fire was so hot that the licking flames consumed the men who threw the three Hebrews in.

But the king’s behavior changed from fury to amazement when he saw four unbound and unharmed men walking in the fire. The fourth looked like a son of the gods. We, however, know this fourth person as Jesus, Immanuel, God with us.

Amid fear, where death abounds, God remains with us. I must mind what I resort to when I’m afraid, and my world is watching. When my people . . . my tribe . . . and my world are watching, I must monitor my decisions, making sure I put God first.

In our me-first world, we may not have to choose between life and death, but we might feel pressured (sometimes this feels like dying) between choosing to honor God or go along with those at work, our social group, friends, or family. Perhaps our reputation or the closeness of a relationship is at stake.

As the men faced fear and persecution, they decided to put God first. God didn’t take away the pain, but He showed up for them. Scripture tells us not even a hair on their heads smelled, nor were their clothes scorched.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

 ~Isaiah 43:2

Think of some ways to fight the fires in your world.

 Jesus, give me strength and courage to put You first in whatever comes my way. I need You to remind me of Your gentle presence. Grant me peace so I will know You alone will protect and provide for me amid my enemies. Amen.

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2024: Putting God First in a Me-First World: Lynne Head: All Rights Reserved