Daniel 3:17-18

“If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”

Daniel 3:17-18

It is one thing to have faith to escape. It’s another thing to have faith to endure. It’s one thing to be sick and have faith to be healed. It’s another thing to be sick and not be healed but still praise God. That takes greater faith. It’s one thing to be delivered. It’s another thing to die by faith. 

There better be an “if not” clause in your relationship with God. Our God is able to deliver us, but if He doesn’t deliver us, it’s not because He can’t. We read in the New Testament where James was put in prison and Herod cut off his head (See Acts 12:1-4.). Then Peter was put in prison and God delivered Peter out of prison. Therefore, God could have delivered James, but He didn’t. 

Why? Well, you can ask Him when you get to Heaven. God is a sovereign God. He knows what is best, and He may not always deliver you from your trials, tribulations, and temptations. But if He doesn’t, what are you to do? Just stand. Just stand by faith.

Take time this week to read Hebrews 11, reflecting on how some of those who stood by faith were delivered and others were not. Nonetheless, all glorified God.

Pastor William Del Casale