Courage Through Persecution | A HOPE TO COME SERIES | 5.25.25

Follow Along with the Message

Read Daniel 3: 1-6
Consider these things while reading

. Statues of culture today and the pressure to bow before them
. Where does that kind of bravery develop?
. Can we know in our crucible moments that God is beside use?

I love this story of the Hebrew boys.
Such bravery without cultural cowardice. A spectacular public miracle by God . And a stunning picture of our rescuing Jesus who's intention saves and undoes our bondages in the midst of our furnaces.

Aaron made three points about crucible moments in our lives  .

1 . We can receive clarity or a breakthrough.

2. God makes us courageously strong as we faithfully trust His way

3. God invites us to participate in a miracle.

Here are a few questions addressing these points:

. Discuss clarity or breakthrough you have experienced in your crucible, furnace moments

. Aaron quoted Josh 1: 8-9
This passage gives us an understanding that the boys had known and insisted on a  Rhythm of Life. They had experienced daily time in the Word, prayer, fasting from culture, sabbath. And refused to defile themselves before God.
In other words, they regularly exercised their faith muscle that could choose God despite the consequences.

. What are 2 of your daily practices or Rhythms of Life?
. What would you like to explore or do as a more regular practice?

There is no doubt about the miracle as the boys stepped OUT of the fiery furnace, an awestruck crowd witnessed God's power and ability.
However, reading the story today again shows us God's two fold miracle. 
Not only the public miracle as they step out of the flames. But the miracle in their hearts that gives them the courage to step IN .

. Can you share an experienced miracle that was either public or privately heart-changing?
. Discuss the profound difference and magnitude of each.

God Beside Us
If only God were more like instant coffee. But He is not.
Experience with God's goodness is a steady walk, not a sprint.
We know God is beside us because we trust His word tells us so. Even when we don't "feel it ".
We trust God learning to step . One step at a time. And eventually able to step forward into places or decisions we rather not make.
Thankfully, we are stepping together.
Let's be grateful for each other's companionship and celebrate our progress.

In His name
We do things far beyond our capacity.