STANDING IN THE FIRE

Wrapped in blankets in my grandparents’ van, I watched as fire destroyed our home. My dad says I slept soundly as he carried my brother and me and our puppies out to safety. When I woke up and saw the huge blaze, I was already safe. I was too curious and too young to be scared.

I remember several things from that night. Even inside the van the heat was intense and the fire was mesmerising. I remember too the scared look on the faces of everyone else, checking and re-checking to see if loved ones were safe. Later I learned that in the chaos my dad raced into the fire to look for my granddad, which prompted my granddad (who was not inside the house) to race in to get my dad. Their bravery amazed everyone who saw it that night.

I’m reminded of that fire every time I read the story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. When they were told to bow to the king as a god or face execution (DANIEL 3:10-12), these three bravely faced the fire for the true God they loved (VV.16-18). And God stood with them in the flames (V.25).

When life’s ‘flames’ test us, may those who see our choices realise our love for each other and for our God.

Want more . . . ?

Read more of Daniel and his friends in Daniel 1–3. How do their lives encourage you to stand firm for God? Ask Him to help you make brave choices today.

TRIALS ARE THE SOIL IN WHICH OUR
TRUST IN GOD GROWS.

YouTh Edition – Our Daily Bread Ministries