Read: Daniel 3:10-25

Hananiah (Shadrach), Mishael (Meshach), Azariah (Abednego) were young men when they were taken as captives to Babylon. These young men were selected for the court of the Babylonian king. They were without blemish, good-looking, gifted in all wisdom, possessing knowledge, quick in understanding and had the ability to serve in the king’s palace (Dan. 1:4). They had to learn the Babylonian culture and language and had to eat the portion of food and wine served to the king for a period of three years. Yet Daniel and the three young men Hananiah, Mishael, Azariah did not defile themselves by eating the food served to the king as it was served to idols. They asked their chief steward in charge to give them a diet of vegetables and water for 10 days and compare their appearance to those who ate the king’s delicacies. God blessed the young men with knowledge and skill in all literature and wisdom (Dan. 1:17) and they were found to be 10 times better than others. They were found to be successful in the test.

But they had to face a greater test again. They had to bow down before the golden statue of king Nebuchadnezzar. Imagine the situation of the 3 young men who were thrown into the fiery furnace for not bowing down before a golden statue. Their faith was tested yet again. They were not willing to disobey God’s commandments. They believed that Yahweh was the only one and true God, who would be able to deliver them from the blazing furnace. Though the furnace was heated 7 times more, they were untouched by the flames of fire. God was in their midst when they faced the dreadful fire.

When you are a child of God and are going through fiery trials, He always walks with you. He will cover you with his feathers and hide you under the shadow of His wings. Not a hair of your head will be touched. He will protect you and safeguard you from the flaming arrows of the evil one. Just trust in God, seeking His Will and be His faithful servant.