Daniel, 3
18. But even if he will not, let it be known to you, O king, that we will not worship your gods, nor adore the gold statue, which you have raised up.”
18. But even if he will not, let it be known to you, O king, that we will not worship your gods, nor adore the gold statue, which you have raised up.”
Chapter 3 of the book of Daniel tells the story of the three young Hebrews, Sadrach, Mesaque and Abednego, who refused to worship the gold statue made by King Nebuchadnezzar. They were thrown into the burning furnace, but were protected by God and left unharmed. Below are five verses related to the topics covered in this chapter:
Isaiah 43:2: "When you cross the waters, I will be with you; When you cross the rivers, they will not cover it. When you walk through the fire, you will not burn; the flames will not leave it in embers." This verse speaks of God's presence with those who trust in Him in the midst of difficulties and adversity, which is exemplified in the history of the three young Hebrews in the furnace.
1 Corinthians 10:13: "No temptation has plagued them except what is common to men. And God is faithful; He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what they can bear. But when they are tempted, He will provide them with an exhaust, so that they can stand it. " This verse speaks of God's faithfulness to help us endure temptation, and the three young Hebrews are an example of how God can help us resist pressure to give in to idolatry.
Exodus 20:3: "You will not have other gods before me." This verse is the first of the ten commandments and addresses the theme of worship of God exclusively. It is a principle that the three Hebrews have followed, even in the face of the threat of death, and challenges us to do the same in our lives.
Acts 5:29: "Peter and the other apostles answered," We must obey God as ruler before men. " This verse is part of Peter's response and the apostles to the authorities who tried to prevent their preaching. It is an example of how we should choose to obey God, even if it means disobeying human authorities.
2 Timothy 1:7: "For God has not given us a spirit of cowardice, but of power, love and self -control." This verse speaks of the power that God gives us to resist the fear and pressure of compliance with the expectations of society. The three young Hebrews demonstrated this power by resisting the order of King Nebuchadnezzar to worship the golden statue.
“Esforce-se, mesmo se for um pouco, mas sempre…” São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina
