The only one standing

Let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image.

–Daniel 3:18

I was attending a church service in another city. The opening hymn was announced and out of habit I stood up to sing. Everyone else stayed seated. Imagine my embarrassment! I was the only one standing!

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego also stood alone, but for a very different reason. King Nebuchadnezzar had built a 90-foot statue, set it in the plain of Dura, and ordered the people to bow down and worship it when they heard the music (Daniel 3:1-5).

The gold statue was gleaming in the afternoon sun. The music sounded, and all the people put their foreheads in the dust. Right? Wrong! The three young men from Israel were still standing (v.12).

You know what happened? The king was furious. He ordered the furnace to be heated seven times hotter than usual and commanded that the rebels be thrown in. But they didn’t burn up. They were seen walking around in the midst of the flames – and they were not alone. Someone else (perhaps the Son of God) was in the fire with them (v.25).

As a follower of Jesus, when everyone else is bowing to idols of pride or greed or lust or prejudice, take your stand for what is right. He will be with you, even when you are the only one standing!

– David C. Egner

Just live your life before your Lord,

It matters not what others do –

Your actions will be weighed by Him

Who metes out judgment just and true.

– Roe

READ: Daniel 3:8-25