The Fiery Furnace

Three friends choose to love God even when it is hard, and God stays right beside them to keep them safe.

In the land of Babylon, King Nebuchadnezzar built a tall golden statue that shone bright in the sun. He gathered all his people together on a wide, dusty field. “When you hear the music play,” he called out, “everyone must bow down low to my statue!” The crowd waited quietly to hear the very first note.

But three friends named Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego loved God with all their hearts. When the music played and everyone else bowed down, the three friends stood up tall and still. They would not bow to a statue made of gold. They worshiped only God, the One who made the whole sky.

When the king heard, his face went red and his voice grew loud. “Bow down to my statue,” he said, “or you will be put into the hot, blazing furnace!” The three friends were not sure what would happen, but they held each other close. “Our God is able to save us,” they said bravely, “but even if He does not, we will not bow.”

So the friends were placed inside the furnace, heated seven times hotter than usual, where the fire blazed bright and hot. But something wonderful happened — the flames did not hurt them at all. They walked about freely inside, calm and unafraid. God was taking care of His friends.

The king leaned in to look, and his eyes grew big with wonder. “Wait!” he gasped. “I see four people walking in the fire!” There was someone shining beside the three friends, keeping them company. God was right there in the fire, watching over the ones who loved Him.

“Come out!” the king called, and the three friends stepped out, safe and whole. Their hair was not burned, and not even their clothes smelled like smoke! The king was amazed, and he began to praise the great God who had kept the three friends safe. God loved them, and He had never left their side.

Thank You, God, for being with me always. Help me to be brave and to love You no matter what.