Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego could have rationalized complying with King Nebuchadnezzar's command to bow before the image he had created. But they, faithful to God when the pressure wasn't on, didn't bend when threatened with execution. They knew they would be delivered -- whether miraculously, or through death -- but Nebuchadnezzar was not in control. And when they were cast into the furnace, they were not alone.

These things are written for our encouragement! God is in charge, not world rulers or Supreme Court judges who attempt to force us to bow to the god of their creation. As the "heat" is turned up on Christians in our nation, we can be sure that whatever fiery trials may be ahead, our Lord is with us and will not abandon us to the foe!