Seeing God working in the lives of others impacts us. When we see miracles happening, we are changed!
Do you know the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego? In the Old Testament book of Daniel, these three Jewish boys were in the land of Babylon being trained in the ways of the land. They were trying to retain their belief in God, but that only got them in trouble—real trouble. They were supposed to bow to the golden idols, but they refused. The king was furious and ordered them thrown into the fire of the hot furnace! Not a good day. But then they told the king:
If we are thrown into the flaming furnace, our God is able to deliver us; and he will deliver us out of your hand, Your Majesty.
Daniel 3:17
Well, they got tossed into the fire. It was so hot, several of the guards leading them to the fire were killed by the heat. But the three young Jewish boys were not touched. In fact, they were seen dancing inside the furnace with a fourth person—who looked like an angel! So, what was the impact on others who saw this?
Then Nebuchadnezzar said, “Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, for he sent his angel to deliver his trusting servants when they defied the king’s commandment, and were willing to die rather than serve or worship any god except their own. Therefore, I make this decree, that any person of any nation, language, or religion who speaks a word against their God shall be torn limb from limb and his house knocked into a heap of rubble.
Daniel 3:28–29
That sure was a good result for His Kingdom! Being openly trusting of God, letting others see that trust, and then letting Him get the glory. That’s what we’re all doing today, as well: openly trusting the Lord when we go through our trials.
Today, we thank you, Lord, for our trials because we trust, we believe, and we have the faith to know that all good comes from You and if You have placed us in this trial, You have done so for our good—that while we do not understand, we honor You. We thank You for allowing us to be used by You for Your Glory so others may see and be changed!
Have a cool furnace day.
