God 3:16 – Part 4: The God Who Defends You
Daniel 3
“Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied, ‘O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you.’” Daniel 3:16 (p.669)
- God Is All-Powerful.
- Cultivate Unwavering faith.
“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 3:17-18 (p.669)
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (p.914)
- Resist societal pressure.
“So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, securely tied, fell into the roaring flames.” Daniel 3:23 (p.669)
“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 (p.884)
- Look for God’s deliverance.
“But suddenly, Nebuchadnezzar jumped up in amazement and exclaimed to his advisers, ‘Didn’t we tie up three men and throw them into the furnace?’ ‘Yes, Your Majesty, we certainly did,’ they replied. ‘Look!’ Nebuchadnezzar shouted. ‘I see four men, unbound, walking around in the fire unharmed! And the fourth looks like a god!’ Then Nebuchadnezzar came as close as he could to the door of the flaming furnace and shouted: ‘Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!’ So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stepped out of the fire.” Daniel 3:24-26 (p.669)
“When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2 (p.550)
My Next Step This Week: _____ I will remember that God is with me and more powerful than my fire by praying Jehovah Roi every morning.
Series Memory Verse: “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (p.811)
LIFE GROUP DISCUSSION
One Thing: God Is All-Powerful.
Memory Verse: John 3:16 (p.811)
Bible Background: Shadrach, Meshach, & Abednego – Daniel 3
CONVERSATION STARTER
// What is your favorite memory centered around a campfire or fireplace?
WEEKEND REVIEW
- Cultivate Unwavering faith
- Resist societal pressure
- Look for God’s deliverance
// Was there anything that stood out to you or maybe confused you?
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
// Read Daniel 3:16-18 (p.669)
- What can you learn about having unwavering faith in God from Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego’s response to the king?
- What does this verse tell us about God’s power and the challenges we face?
// Read 2 Timothy 1:7 (p.914)
- How does this verse relate to God’s omnipotence (being all-powerful)?
- How does this verse encourage us to embrace God’s power in our lives?
// Read Daniel 3:24-30 (p.669)
- How does this moment illustrate God turning trials into triumphs and using adversities to glorify His name?
- Have you ever had a trial turn into a triumph? What did others see about God’s power because of your faith in Him?
// Read Psalm 118:5-9 (p.467).
- In what ways can the assurance of God’s presence empower you to face your challenges with confidence?
- In practical terms, how can you cultivate a habit of seeking refuge in God?
// Read Isaiah 43:2 (p.550)
- How does this verse make you feel about the current fire or past fires you’ve faced?
- How does this verse assure you of God’s persistent presence in your challenges?
NEXT STEP
My Next Step This Week:
_____ I will remember that God is with me and more powerful than my fire by praying Jehovah Roi every morning.
DIGGING DEEPER
This week, reflect on these verses and pray.
- Pray for God’s support and guidance. Isaiah 41:10 (p.548)
- Pray for God’s assurance amidst fear. Deuteronomy 31:6 (p.163)
- Pray for God’s strength and protection. Psalm 27:1 (p.425)