About Fiery Furnaces
“Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who has sent his angel and delivered his servants who trusted in him. ”
The king became so angry at the disobedience of the three young men that his face was distorted and changed. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were thrown into a fire seven times its usual intensity. This was, however, a story with a happy ending. God sent his messenger to preserve the men from harm. Nebuchadnezzar recognized the superiority of the God of the Israelites, and offered his protection to God’s worshippers.
There are fiery furnaces in the lives of many of us. Sometimes they are created by other people. Sharp words lead to estrangements from loved ones. Our actions or motives are misunderstood and we lose our jobs. False accusations are made against us, causing loss of reputation and self-esteem. More often we heap up our own coals of fire. We give in to temptations that trap us in a cycle of despair and loss. God seems far away.
We, too, can trust that God will be with us in the difficult and frightening experiences of life. When we lose our way, God is there to guide. When fear strikes us, God protects. In moments of temptation God strengthens. At the time of sickness and death God provides comfort and courage.
For Reflection: Have I ever been in a fiery furnace?
A Prayer Seed:
“Fear not, I am with thee, O be not dismayed,
For I am thy God and will still give thee aid;
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by My righteous omnipotent hand.”
Rippon’s A Selection of Hymns, 1787
