Daniel 3:1-18

“But there are some Jews—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—whom you have put in charge of the province of Babylon. They pay no attention to you, Your Majesty. They refuse to serve your gods and do not worship the gold statue you have set up.” (Daniel 3:12, NLT)

It is never easy to stand against the crowd and do what you know is right. King Nebuchadnezzar was exerting all the pressure he could muster to demand conformity. The dazzling visual, impressive music, peer pressure, royal decree, and terrible threat of the fiery furnace were all carefully designed to cause everyone to bow down and worship the king’s image. But Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego refused to do it. As they had earlier purposed in their hearts not to defile themselves with the king’s food, so now they resolved not to bow to the king’s idols nor worship his gods. They had an inner conviction of the Holy Spirit that was greater than all of Nebuchadnezzar’s devilish devices.

This world exerts great pressure to conform to its beliefs. Those who refuse are accused, slandered and hated. Behind it all is Satan who hates God and His truth. We must not be surprised if the world hates us because Jesus Christ did everything right, and they hated Him. Our first challenge under such pressure is not to give in—not even a little bit.

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2, ESV)

Our second challenge is to not hate our accusers nor return evil for evil. It isn’t easy to love our enemies and to pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44), but it is the way of Christ. It is also the means by which we are not overcome by evil but overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). Daniel’s three friends were accused by their enemies and subjected to the king’s wrath, but their confidence in the LORD remained strong. And they would not be ashamed.