The Fourth Man. Daniel 3:1-28 ESV
Peer pressure can be a very difficult thing to not only encounter but overcome. One of the clearest examples of this can be found with Daniel's three friends: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. From the beginning, they knew life in Babylon was going to be hard but they probably never thought they'd be faced with life or death for choosing to follow Yahweh. But even in the face of losing their lives, they trusted in their God until the end, even if He chose not to save them. And it's through their story that we can draw out principles to help us in our current culture.
Reflection Questions:
What "sounds" of the world do you struggle with? What steps can you take to learn the balance of being "in" the world but not "of" the world?
1 Peter 3:15 says to be "prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect." What does it look like to make a stand for Christ in a gentle and respectful way?
How does knowing that Jesus is ALWAYS with you - even in the fire - give you confidence, hope, and motivation to endure hard times? How can you encourage someone else with this comfort?