Greatest answers enjoyed during the most difficult times
Daniel 3:24~30 Then Nebuchadnezzar said, “Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants! They trusted in him and defied the king’s command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God.” (28)
Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #250 Down at the Cross where my Savior Died (#182 in previous version)
Man is a spiritual being created by God in His image (Genesis 1:27). However, he faces limitations in reality and is discouraged before difficulties if he does not know the spiritual facts. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were taken captive, but they were bold because they knew the spiritual facts. When you discover the power of the Gospel and the mystery of Jesus Christ, you will enjoy the spiritual blessings and background. What is the greatest answer that the children of God must enjoy in the midst of hardship and suffering within their reality?
1. The spiritual world and blessings
Because Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego knew God’s will, they did not fear even though they were taken captive to Babylon. Also, they were bold for they knew the spiritual mysteries and the power of God. As a result, King Nebuchadnezzar especially promoted these three friends and raised them to a place to move the world (Daniel 1:6). In addition, God gave them ten times greater wisdom than all the magicians and enchanters in the whole kingdom (Daniel 1:20). To those who know the spiritual realms and its blessings, God reveals His power.
2. Power to transcend crisis
When King Nebuchadnezzar commanded them to bow before a golden statue, Daniel’s three friends refused to obey and received the punishment of being thrown into a blazing furnace. However, God protected these three individuals, and the king who saw this praised God and commanded all his people to serve God. Also, he raised these three as high officials in order to spread the Gospel to the entire world. Crises are opportunities for God’s plan to be fulfilled for those who possess spiritual blessings.
3. Three blessings
If you enjoy the spiritual realms, you will enjoy three blessings. First, you will enjoy the Holy Spirit working whenever you pray. Second, the forces of darkness will be bound and will flee when you pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Third, God sends His angels when you pray to fulfill His work. When you enjoy these blessings, you will not fear the world, people, or death and witness the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
- Are you discouraged because of the problems and hardship that are before you now? Prior to what is visible, meditate on the spiritual identity and blessings that God has given to you and find the answer within the Word. Immanuel Church Sunday Worship 1st Service / 2012.3.11