"Into The Furnace" by Kirk Hunt

And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. (Daniel 3:23 KJV)

Conviction made them a target of the jealous. Their integrity forced a confrontation with a powerful and ruthless despot. Courage sent them into the furnace.

Their Godly character is obvious. They went into the flames rather than compromise their faith. Their close friendship with the prophet Daniel should not be a surprise. Godly men and women support each other.

Even the best of us try to avoid the furnace. We know the heat strengthens and refines us. No one doubts the impact of courageous witness on the world. Our human hearts and minds are wary of the price. Landing in the flames is always a sacrifice.

We all want to be Godly heroes, but not Christian martyrs. We're human enough to flinch. We're Godly enough to stay the course.

Standing firm in God isn't always convenient. Righteous morals line us up as targets of the unscrupulous and the ungodly. Your God-seeking character makes you furnace-bait.

Integrity may push you off the “fast track.” Your Godly character might drive off profitable opportunities. Your Christ-like character could lock you out of the in-crowd.

You may find yourself in the furnace one day. That's good. That means men and women can see your Godly faith. The pagans don't throw their own to the flames. (Or at least, not first.)

As the roar of the flames draws closer, stay strong. God is there, with you. He will see you through.

Think: God is with me. Even in the furnace.

Pray: “Lord, help me to love You more than I fear the furnace.”

Copyright © October 2007, Kirk Hunt