Lesson 7: In the Fire With the Lord

In this lesson we learn why there is no danger in the presence of God.

Critics of God say, “Bad things happen because God isn’t loving enough to care or powerful enough to stop them.” Either way, God is condemned. But the Bible represents God as both loving and powerful, and challenges those subject to harm to trust in Him.

We all encounter problems and challenges in life. The Word of God tells us how to deal with problems. God doesn’t take them away; His Word shows us how to deal with them.

THE RECORD OF DELIVERANCE

1. The king was furious concerning the defiance of the three Hebrew children. (Daniel 3:19)

2. The king quickly moved from anger to activity. (Daniel 3:22)

3. Immediately, the king was in for a surprise. He was amazed, for the three friends were not burned up! In fact, they began to walk around inside the furnace, and they were joined by a fourth, unidentified figure. (Daniel 3:24-25)

4. The king acknowledged the unique place of the God of Israel, admitting that his gods were nothing in comparison. (Daniel 3:26-30)

THE REASONS FOR DELIVERANCE

1. Absolute Commitment to God

1. Absolute Confidence in God

1. Absolute Courage Because of God

1. Absolute Consciousness of God

THE RESULTS OF DELIVERANCE

1. Their Enemies were Executed.

1. Their Bonds were Eliminated.

1. Their Hearts were Encouraged.

1. Their Lives were Ensured.

1. Their God was Exalted.

1. Their Influence was Enlarged.

Peter tells us we are not to think it strange when fiery trials come upon us, as though some unusual thing had happened. (1 Peter 4:12-13). 

But we are to take instruction for the Word of God and in the midst of the fiery furnace to remember that the Lord is right there with us.  (Isaiah 43:2)