“Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” — Daniel 3:16-18
Sometimes I wonder what Shadrach, Mescach and Abednego were feeling when they said answered the king. Did any part of them think “this is crazy.” Did Shadrach nudge Meschach while mumbling, “here we go!” as the king’s men approached? I wonder what friends of theirs chickened out and bowed down? Are there names missing from this story because of fear?
The way it goes down in the Bible, I see no hesitation in them. There was nothing in them that paused or hesitated. For them, it wasn’t a question.
I can’t help but think it’s because they made up their minds long before that day. It’s a lot easier to say “no” to things when you know what you’re saying “yes” to. Without that core conviction of “yes,” saying “no” is based far more on emotions.
What are you saying “no” to?