I am using the daily Bible reading schedule from “The Bible.net” for my daily Bible reading.

In the year 2000, on the 23rd day of this month, my wife married me.  So here we are on day 12 of the 20 days that I am going to wish her Happy Anniversary for 20 years of marriage.  Happy Anniversary Darling!

Today, I am reading and commenting on Daniel 3-4.

I have always loved the story of Meshach, Shadrach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace.  As a child I was taught that this account reveals how God can save us from even the most terrible danger if we faithfully serve Him.  Actually, the lesson I learned was that God will save us from such dangers if we are faithful.  However, a few years ago I was struck by our heroes’ response to King Nebuchadnezzar before they were thrown into the fire.  It comes in two parts.  The first part has been emphasized in most of the exposition I have seen on this passage: ” the God whom we serve is able to save us.”  That emphasis is good.  The God whom I serve (and whom I hope that you serve) is able to save us from even the most dangerous situation.  However, the second part is one to which we need to give more thought: “But even if he doesn’t, … we will never serve your gods.”  God is able to save us from whatever danger we may face, but we must be ready to face that danger even if His plan calls for us to suffer from it.  If we willingly experience whatever suffering comes out way as a result of serving God, He will reward us.  If we bravely stand our ground in faithful service to Him, God may save us from the threats we face, but we should stand our ground even if He does not.  I believe that most of the time God will indeed save us, but if we follow the example of these three men, we will certainly experience a reward and a joy which will make the pain worthwhile.