Daily devotional · June 16
Even If He Does Not
“Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If the God whom we serve exists, then He is able to deliver us from the blazing fiery furnace and from your hand, O king. But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden statue you have set up.””
Three young men face a furnace and a king's ultimatum. Their answer is remarkable: our God can rescue us, but even if he does not, we will not bow. That small phrase, even if, marks the difference between faith that bargains and faith that simply trusts. They do not know how the story ends, yet they refuse to trade loyalty for safety. Most of us will never face a literal furnace, but we all meet moments when integrity costs something: an honest answer that risks a friendship, a refusal to cut a corner at work. Today, think of a place where doing right may cost you. Decide ahead of time what you will do, and pray for courage. Remember, the story tells us a fourth figure walked with them in the fire.
Prayer
Lord, give me courage to stay faithful, whatever the cost, knowing you walk with me.