As written and presented by Mary Whelchel

PROGRAM D-6056

I'm sure you know the story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, the three young Jewish men who refused to worship the image of gold, which King Nebuchadnezzar had decreed that all should worship. We've heard their story of courage, as they stood true to their convictions and how marvelously God delivered them from the burning furnace. I'd like us to take another look at this incredible story.

When these three young men were brought before the King to explain their refusal to obey, here's what they said, 'If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.' (Daniel 3:16-18)

Now, put yourself in their shoes, if you can. They are looking at certain death-a fiery furnace-and their faith in God's ability to deliver them is strong and sure. But at the same time, their commitment to stay true to God is a decision made regardless of the outcome, before they know what's going to happen.

And their commitment is not based on God's performance. They will obey and honor God's Word, even if the result is not a storybook ending, even if God doesn't do what they think he should and can do. They can say, 'But even if God does not...'

How could these three young guys have such tremendous faith as they faced that burning furnace? Because they knew God; they understood God's sovereignty that he is in control even when it looks like he isn't. They understood their relationship to God. God is Master, they are servants. And they had learned to trust him, for they knew he was good and he would work all things for their good, even a burning furnace.

Have you come to the 'But even if he does not' place in your life yet? When we can say, 'Lord, even if you don't...' we are at a new and higher level of faith and trust. We've gone beyond the 'God is my Santa Claus' mentality, to 'God is my God, my King, and regardless of how things look to me, I can trust him.' When we can say, 'Lord, even if you don't...' then we're really getting to know God, for knowing God means that we trust him against all evidence to the contrary, against all human reasoning.

I want to encourage you today as you face your burning furnace, whatever it is, to know that God is trustworthy. You can believe him for your welfare, even if he does not do it your way.

In Mary’s book "Looking with Forever Eyes" she shows readers how to view their circumstances from God’s perspective. Call the ministry at 1-800-292-1218 or go online to www.christianworkingwoman.org to order.

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