Favor is not something for which you pray. It is something you grow into. This is the story of the three Hebrew children, Meshach, Shadrach, and Abednego. They, along with Daniel, found favor with the King and received promotions. At the time of this story, Daniel was probably out of town on business. Otherwise, he would have been caught up in this situation.
Now, you have these captives getting promotions and much honor from the King. Certain Chaldeans came forward and accused them. There may have been others who did not bow down to the King's image, but they focused on these three men. They informed the King that the three Hebrews did not pay due regard to him. Note: There was nothing in the decree about worshiping Chaldean gods. The King was fully aware the Hebrews worshiped Jehovah.
It's an easy thing to stir up some people's flesh if you tell them they are not getting something they deserve to have. The King is enraged.
How do you know you're in the flesh or the Spirit? Check your thoughts: 1) I should have..., 2) I should get..., 3) I deserve... No place in the Bible says you can break the law and escape its penalties whether or not the law is right or wrong.
The three Hebrew children were given a second chance to bow down before the image, but they refused. They broke the King's law, and they recognized there would be a price to pay. God vindicated them and turned the situation around. They came out of the furnace without even the smell of smoke on their clothes.
Application: Proverbs 16:7 - Do the things that please God FIRST. In the end you will have favor with men.
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If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Service at 10:00 AM. Zoe Christian Fellowship is located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Route 611), in Warrington, PA. We look forward to meeting you!
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