When we talk about the book of Daniel, the first thing often mentioned is the lion’s den. Why do we forget about the account of the fiery furnace in Daniel’s third chapter? Perhaps because Daniel isn’t even in the furnace–but his friends are right there in the heat.
If it has been a while since you’ve read this account, let’s review. King Nebuchadnezzar commanded that a towering idol be built and that everyone worship it. Because Daniel’s three friends (Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego) refused to bow down and worship the idol, the king threw them into a fiery furnace that he stoked seven times hotter than normal. King Nebuchadnezzar then noticed a fourth man in the furnace, a man who was unharmed and “looked like a son of the gods” (Dan 3: 25).
At this point, I have many questions. Do Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego realize that they are not alone? Are the three men so intently focused on the flames that they don’t see the fourth man or recognize him? Are they speaking with the fourth man? If so, I doubt that they are talking about the weather or the latest movie. Perhaps, the three friends are listening to the fourth man? Maybe conversation is hard to hear over the hot, crackling flames?
We don’t know the answers to these questions because God’s Word doesn’t tell us. But the “man” is present, whether or not Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego see, hear or recognize him. Yet, King Nebuchadnezzar sees the fourth man and orders Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to come out, acknowledging them as servants of the Most High God.
The Lord’s Presence
It is so easy to recognize fiery furnaces, but are you aware of the Lord’s presence in the midst of the flames? Perhaps, it is easier for you to see God’s work or presence in the lives of others instead of your own? If you are having trouble recognizing His presence, ask Him to make Himself known to you. Then be willing to open your eyes and look.
Money might arrive in an unexpected way allowing you to pay your bills on time and remind you of His provision. Your time might be stretched allowing you to finish what you set out to accomplish. A Mesu Andrews’ novel might appear in your mailbox and take you by complete surprise. His ways of making sure you are aware of His presence in your life are very creative.
Also, get to know His character by reading Scripture so that recognizing Him will become easier. Maybe a spouse or co-worker demonstrates patience toward you when you don’t deserve it, reminding you again how patient Jesus is with you. It could be that amidst the hotter flames of a trial, you experience peace that you can’t begin to explain.
With You in the Furnace
Still wondering about His presence? Ask a trusted friend how they see God at work in your life. What you have been missing might surprise you. Do you have friends that might need to hear about God’s presence in their lives right now? Will you do something about that today by sending a note, an email message, or making a phone call?
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Most importantly, trust His words to you about His presence in your life. Three very familiar Scriptures remind us of His promises regarding His presence. Memorizing one of them might help to remind you to be watching for Him.
“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ ” Heb 13:5
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matt. 28:19-20
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me” Ps. 23:4
The Bible is very clear that followers of Christ will face many trials in this life, but the promises of His presence are without condition. Even if you are in a furnace that is seven times hotter right now because of your own choices, still He is with you and He will not leave you in that furnace alone.
