But Even If He Doesn't

This weekend we celebrated Memorial Day, and remember the many men and women that gave all that they had for freedom. In spite of personal pain, suffering, and lose many have given there all for freedom.
This Sunday I referenced Nelson Mandela who spent 27 years in a South African prison because he refused to bow down and accept that apartheid was ok. Regardless of the person pain and the pain to those around him, Mandela would not waiver. Evidentially he was released and in 1994 was elected President of South Africa.
Amazing!

In the book of Daniel, Chapter 3... the scriptures tell us of three men that refused to bow to the Kings abusive power and authority. They knew the cost of not bowing BEFORE they said no and they still said no. The King gave them a second chance, and the still said no. They say in a strange way. They said, 
“O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if he doesn’t, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up.” (Daniel 3:16-18)

“But even if he (God) doesn’t”

What a bold, radical, faith. Faith built on the knowledge and understand that God has real ultimate power and authority!

Where did we come to believe that God has to fly in, play superman and save us? Can God be seen, even if we go down? More and more I believe that God wants his followers, his church to not bow in the intense times, but rather stand no matter what! Standing in the “even if” moments is not going to be easy... but who ever said following God, believing in the power of Jesus was going to be easy. Certainly Jesus never said that.

My struggle is when the hurt and pain effects others that I love. I can deal with the heat pretty well... but when I see others getting burned by my stand.... that’s tough.

As yourself... as I have asked myself... “Will I stand firm, stay committed, give my all like Mandela, like these three Jews, like the disciples, like Jesus.... Even if he doesn’t save me?”

Can I do any less for my Lord?