(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Daniel 3:25 “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, …and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.”
The story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego is one of the most commonly told stories of the Bible. We may read it and have doubts that God could really do what He did, or we may read it and be amazed at what God had done.
However, it may be best to read it and not consider how your life may be similar to or different from these three men. Instead, it may be best to consider how your life may be similar to king Nebuchadnezzar.
In this event, king Nebuchadnezzar was seeking to make his own name great. He was getting his personal worth and value from what others said about him. He wanted people in his kingdom to do what he wanted them to do. He revealed what he thought of his own strength and maintained his power over others.
You may not be king of a large empire, but every day you are tempted to live with the same desires and goals of which Nebuchadnezzar held dearly.
READING & PRAYERS:
DANIEL 3:19-30 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: Are there any ways in which you are currently desiring to make your own name great, or are getting your personal worth and value based on what others say or think about you? How may God be inviting you to think differently?
REAL LIFE PRACTICE: As you pray today, spend an equal amount of time listening to God as you spend talking to God. Perhaps listen even longer. Consider making this a part of your daily practices so you can discern God’s voice more clearly.
Take a Step: Remember to continue utilizing the One Minute Pause app throughout the week. If possible, begin to explore and practice the 3, 5 or 10 minute pause to more deeply root yourself in Christ.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess that far too often I am seeking to make my own name great instead of seeking to reflect Your love and mercy upon the broken world around me. May I better reflect Your nature and character today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
south ridge blog 