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Still Standing
- February 16, 2025 / Joshua Ott
We all know what it feels like to be pulled in different directions—pressures from work, family, society, or even our own expectations. It’s easy to feel like we’re being swept away. But the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel 3 reminds us that standing firm in faith is possible, even when the pressure is intense. They didn’t bend to the culture around them, and their trust in God became a testimony. Today, we can do the same. Whatever pressures you’re facing—busyness, peer pressure, self-doubt—God gives you the strength to stand firm.
KEY VERSES:
- Daniel 2:12-19 – Pressure revealing character
- Daniel 3:1-6 – Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image
- Daniel 3:16-18 – Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stand firm
- Daniel 3:24-27 – God’s protection in the fire
HIGHLIGHTS:
- The Reality of Pressure & Pull:
- Pressure exposes our true character (Daniel 2:12-19).
- Pull tries to convince us to go with the flow, even when it's dangerous.
- Daniel 3 - Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego:
- King Nebuchadnezzar sets up a golden image and commands worship (Daniel 3:1-6).
- Refusing to bow means facing the fiery furnace.
- The three men stand firm, knowing that God is able to deliver them (Daniel 3:16-18).
- They are thrown into the fire, but God is with them, and they emerge unharmed (Daniel 3:24-27).
- Modern-Day Pressures & Pulls:
- Social pressure – trying to fit in, curating the perfect life image.
- Hustle culture – defining worth by accomplishments.
- Chasing experiences – seeking purpose in feelings rather than faith.
- The Call to Stand:
- Just like Daniel and his friends, our stand in faith impacts others.
- The only way through pressure and pull is to plant our feet firmly in God’s truth.
TALK ABOUT IT:
- Have you ever experienced a time when you felt both pressure and pull in your life? How did you respond?
- What are some modern-day "golden statues" that people are pressured to bow to?
- How can standing firm in faith impact those around you?
- Why do you think God allows us to experience pressure in our lives?
- What does it mean to "stand" in faith even when the outcome is uncertain?
- In what ways can you encourage others to stand strong in their faith?
APPLY IT:
- Recognize the "currents" in your life—what is pulling you away from God?
- Ask yourself if you are bowing to social pressure instead of standing in faith.
- Spend time in prayer when you feel overwhelmed, asking God for strength.
- Surround yourself with people who encourage your faith instead of pulling you away from it.
- Remember that standing firm is not just for you—it encourages others to stand too.
Born and raised in Schuylkill County, Josh is passionate about Grace being a church that reaches the entire county. He drives the vision, content, clarity, and leadership cohesion at our church. Josh loves old Harleys, fly-fishing, and Philly sports, but not nearly as much as a he loves spending time with his family.