TODAY'S FOOD FOR THE SOUL Daniel 3:1–30 TODAY'S RHEMA Daniel 3:25 He said, "Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods."
Of course, it's amazing if we have friends who always care for us and always be there for us at any time. In this world, we will not find such great friends. However, there is one person that we may not yet realize, He is the Lord Jesus. Immanuel is one of His names, meaning God is with us. Never asleep, never leave us, and none of the events in our lives escape from His knowledge. He is with us at all time not with passive inclusion but with the active inclusion that brings protection. Jesus is ready to intervene at the right time.
In the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, king Nebuchadnezzar saw for himself the inclusion and divine protection of the three young men. Because of their faith in God, they didn't bow down to worship idols, the inclusion and the protection of God were real in their lives. In a state of danger, in the middle of a blazing fire, God accompanies and protects them, so they are safe and not humiliated. Not only that, God softened the heart of the king, so he acknowledged the greatness of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego's God.
Yes, our Lord isn't God who sits quietly and far away in heaven, but He is a living and dynamic God. He continues to work in our lives until now. He is close and accompanies our every step. His eyes are never left, even for a second, always watching over us. When we are sick, His inclusion not only comforts and strengthens, but He also heals. When we have a problem, He gives a way out. When there is a danger, he acts to save and defend us. With Jesus, a thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. (Psalm 91:7). Therefore, do not be afraid and rejoice, because our Lord is Emmanuel. So live in freedom from the fear, which He provides for us. REFLECTION Saudara Terkasih, EMMANUEL means that God's inclusion is NEVER PASSIVE, but ACTIVE carrying DIVINE PROTECTION in our lives APPLICATIONS 1. When do you start to realize that we will never be left alone, but there is God's inclusion with you? 2. Have you ever experienced and truly felt God's inclusion and protection in your life? Tell about your experience? 3. How should you live under God's protection? TODAY'S PRAYER "Lord Jesus, I want to give thanks for Your inclusion and protection in my life, because who I know that you love me. God, deliver me from all fear and anxiety, not to cover up or suppress my fears, but really I can feel free from fear. Always remind me that I am never alone, but there is You by my side. I am safe with you. Thank you, God. In the name of the Lord Jesus, I pray. Amen."
Sutan syahrir 88 Widuran Solo, 57129, Surakarta, Indonesia
