REPRESENTING CHRIST IN A HOSTILE ATMOSPHERE
OCTOBER 24, 2025
TEXT: “If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.” (Daniel 3:17)
Today’s topic borders on being Christ-like and reflecting the light of God, even in the midst of antagonism, oppression, and hatred. King Nebuchadnezzar erected a statue in the plain of Dura, within Babylon. He then gave a decree that whenever the musical instruments were played, the people should bow to worship the golden image. It was more or less an imposed religion and had little or no regard for the religious rights and opinions of the people.
However, something intriguing arose here as three Hebrew boys (Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego) stood their ground and refused to worship the golden image. They were courageous enough to even tell him that even if their God refused to deliver them, they would still not bow to the image. The king was furious and ordered that the fire be heated seven times hotter, while the Hebrew men should be thrown into it. Unfortunately, the fire consumed the soldiers that tied them up because of its fierceness. The Hebrew men were, however, preserved even in the flame.
These men faced a condition that would have made even the strongest of persons backslide and turn away from God. God is ever present in the midst of temptation and tempest. We should endeavour to always defend the gospel even in the midst of hostility. He said, “Blessed are you when men revile and persecute you for my sake. Rejoice and be glad, for great is your reward in heaven” (Matthew 5:11–12).
Courage encourages the conversion of sinners. When unbelievers see how you maintain a strong stand against fear, it challenges them. Maintaining your stand may put you in temporary distress, but in the midst of it all, God’s reward is surely on the way.
SEARCHLIGHT: Compromising and running away from God’s stand only gives you temporary relief. Maintain boldness for the LORD and do not shy away from spreading the gospel to perishing souls around you.
PRAYER: O LORD, embolden me for the gospel, in Jesus’ mighty name.
BIBLE READING: Daniel 4–6; Luke 20
PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE
