Daniel 3:28 (NLT) [bible-link v=”Daniel+3%3A28&version=NLT” c=”light”]
Then Nebuchadnezzar said, “Praise to the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego! He sent his angel to rescue his servants who trusted in him. They defied the king’s command and were willing to die rather than serve or worship any god except their own God.”
Daniel 3:30 (NLT) [bible-link v=”Daniel+3%3A30&version=NLT” c=”light”]
Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to even higher positions in the province of Babylon.
We’ve been reading about Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who built into their lifestyle a readiness and willingness to be tested. Because of their trust in God, they passed each test they faced, and were given greater opportunity to serve their city.
Babylon was not their home, yet through times of testing, they were able to navigate its culture in a way that earned the respect of those in authority, without compromising their faith.
We find ourselves today in a culture that is rapidly moving. These times will inevitably put our faith to the test, but I believe this is not a time for us to retreat.
If we’re willing to be tested on our commitment, character and convictions, we may find that there is more opportunity to work towards the well-being of our city, both individually and together as Civic Church.
What might God see ahead, on the other side of the test?
The more we grow in our trust in God through the times that test us, the more we may be able to serve and participate in our community.
