Daniel Unlocked #23. The Secret of Such a Faith.
In contemplating the narratives within the book of Daniel, we will find that they serve as intricate keys unlocking the mysteries of the 4 prophetic cycles and become just as relevant in the Book of Revelation. A particular disclosure stands out—after the issuance of a death decree, God sends His Son to deliver His people. In immersing myself in the account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego in Daniel 3, a profound inquiry arises: What fueled their unwavering faith? How could they face the prospect of burning alive rather than yielding to the king’s demands? It prompts reflection on the myriad ways they could have rationalized submission to the king’s orders, yet, resolutely, they stood firm, defying the expected norm.
Hebrews 11:1-2 states, “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see. Through their faith, the people in days of old earned a good reputation” (NLT). To grasp such a robust faith, understanding its essence becomes paramount. Some gauge faith quantitatively, measuring it by perceived answers from God, akin to praying for a parking space at the mall. This perspective can be precarious, attempting to manipulate God rather than acknowledging His sovereignty and wisdom. Faith, when reduced to a formula, risks becoming a form of sorcery.
In contrast, genuine faith, as exemplified by Daniel’s companions, hinges on the quality of our relationship with God and the resultant absolute confidence in His divine purpose.
Authentic faith does not seek to bend God’s will to our desires; rather, it surrenders our will to His.
The three Hebrew men exemplify mature faith by choosing to do what is right despite uncertain consequences. True faith is revealed when we pray for our desires, trusting God to act in our best interest, even when we lack understanding in the moment. The crucible of genuine faith is often found in life’s seemingly insignificant moments.
I sense a looming season of distress and turmoil in the world, where God’s people must affirm that He alone is the object of their worship. Not even the considerations of life itself should induce concessions to false worship. To the devoted heart, the commands of sinful, finite men pale in significance beside the eternal word of God. True obedience to the truth may lead to imprisonment, exile, or even death, revealing a faith that works. Indeed a saving relationship is not faith plus works, but a faith that works.
Echoing the sentiment of the three Hebrews in Daniel 3:17, I recognize that God is indeed able to deliver if He so chooses. This theme of deliverance weaves through the entire book, climaxing in Daniel 9, highlighting the greatest deliverance at the cross, and then to Chapter 12, heralding the final deliverance.
“At that time Michael, the archangel who stands guard over your nation, will arise. Then there will be a time of anguish greater than any since nations first came into existence. But at that time, every one of your people whose name is written in the book will be rescued” (Daniel 12:1, NLT).
one of my daily prayers is no matter what the consequences of whether i go through the fire give me the strength as he did for Daniel’s friends
Yes..l have a need for healing of a nasty skin cancer ..l believe my God can heal me..but if not..l will go through with major operation..and still praise and trust in my God..
Praying for you 🙏😇
Submitting to His perfect will always even in adversity for He knows the plans He has for us, declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. ‘” — Jeremiah 29:11.