FROM THREE TO FOUR

The story of the steadfast faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who defied the authority of King Nebuchadnezzar has become an interesting adventure of faith. If there were social media back in those days, apart from the pros and cons regarding the threat to anyone who did not worship the golden statue made by Nebuchadnezzar, the fate of the three servants of God thrown into the fiery furnace would surely be an endless topic of conversation.

That day, God turned the beliefs of everyone in Nebuchadnezzar's realm upside down that the three servants of God would surely die. He even opened Nebuchadnezzar's eyes so the king saw a fourth person in the midst of the fire. The phrase "son of the gods" seemed to be a direct response to Nebuchadnezzar's arrogance, "What god can save you from my hand?" (verse 15). Furthermore, to ensure his sight was not mistaken, the king called them out and found them in good condition, not even smelling like fire (verse 27).

The story of the steadfast faith of the three servants of God facing the fiery furnace not only depicts great pressure on faith, but also serves as evidence of the miracles that God performs. Perhaps the challenges to our faith are not as extreme as their story, but we can emulate their steadfast faith. Until today, the world seeks to test the steadfastness of believers' faith, whether through subtle persuasion or overt pressure. If the test of faith comes upon us, will we remain steadfast in faith or immediately compromise with the world's offers? --GHJ/www.renunganharian.net