Faith in the Fire: Trusting God’s Plan
Broadcast Episode Summary
True faith is the foundation of a deep relationship with God, emphasizing trust and reliance on His will rather than demanding specific outcomes. This article provides insights into the nature of true faith through the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.
- Recognize that true faith is rooted in God’s ability, not merely in the outcomes we desire.
- Understand that submission to God’s will is essential; His plans may differ from our wishes.
- Commitment to God should remain steadfast, regardless of the circumstances or results.
- Be inspired by biblical examples of civil disobedience that honor God’s higher law over man’s laws.
- Embrace true faith as a relationship built on trust, recognizing that God’s responses may not always align with our expectations.
Understanding True Faith: Lessons from the Book of Daniel
True faith is a concept that many people misunderstand. Some believe it means constantly voicing a desired outcome, as if God is obligated to respond to our demands. Pastor Gary Hamrick, in his teachings through the Book of Daniel, highlights a deeper understanding of true faith. It is not merely about asking for what we want but about trusting in God’s ability to act according to His will.
The Challenge of Idolatry
In Daniel chapter three, we encounter the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. These three young men faced a dire situation when King Nebuchadnezzar commanded everyone to bow down to a golden image. The dimensions of this image were peculiar, standing at about 90 feet tall and only nine feet wide. It was an image that represented either the king himself or the Babylonian god Bel. Regardless of its origin, the command was clear: worship the image or face death.
For Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, bowing down was not an option. Their refusal stemmed from their unwavering commitment to God’s law, specifically the Second Commandment, which forbids the worship of idols. They understood their faith as a relationship with God, not a mere agreement to follow human commands.
The Nature of True Faith
True faith involves three essential aspects:
- Faith in God’s Ability: The young men did not presume that God would save them; they acknowledged that He could deliver them from the fiery furnace. Their response to King Nebuchadnezzar was clear: “Our God, whom we serve, is able to deliver us.” This statement illustrates that faith should be rooted in God’s power rather than in our desired outcomes.
- Submission to God’s Will: They recognized that God’s will might not align with their wishes. True faith allows for the acceptance of God’s plans, even when they differ from our own. As seen in Luke 22:42, Jesus Himself submitted to the Father’s will, showing us the importance of aligning our desires with God’s greater purpose.
- Commitment Beyond Results: Their loyalty to God was not dependent on the outcome. They stated, “But if not,” indicating that their faith remained intact regardless of what happened. This highlights that faith is not transactional; it is about a relationship built on trust.
Many people struggle when their prayers don’t yield the expected results. They may feel abandoned or question God’s love. However, true faith reassures us that even when God’s response is “no” or “not now,” He remains sovereign and good.
Examples of Civil Disobedience
The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego is not the only instance of civil disobedience found in the Bible. Similar acts of faith can be seen in Exodus, where Hebrew midwives defied Pharaoh’s orders to save infants, and in Acts, where Peter and John chose to preach despite government restrictions. These examples remind us that when man’s laws contradict God’s, true faith calls for obedience to the higher law of God.
In today’s world, Christians face similar challenges. The call to stand firm in faith may lead to uncomfortable situations, but embracing true faith means trusting God above all else. It is about understanding that He is in control, regardless of the chaos surrounding us.
As we reflect on the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, let us remember that true faith is not about demanding outcomes from God but about cultivating a relationship characterized by trust, obedience, and submission to His divine will.
Conclusion
True faith is about trusting God wholeheartedly, even when outcomes don’t align with our desires. The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego teaches us that faith should be rooted in God’s ability and His perfect will, rather than a fixation on specific results. As believers, we are called to stand firm in our faith, even when faced with challenges and civil disobedience. Remember, God’s timing and responses are always for our best, and maintaining a relationship with Him is what truly matters. How will you strengthen your true faith today?
Originally published as “Faith in the Fire: Trusting God’s Plan” from Cornerstone Connection.