This week, Pastor Jeff takes us through three major tests of faith that Daniel and his friends faced while living in exile under Babylonian rule—each one a powerful picture of what it looks like to stand firm when everything in the culture says, “Bow down or give in.”

Across 20+ years of pressure, Daniel and his friends are confronted with moments that could have compromised their identity, faith, and future. But instead of bending, they remain faithful.

📚 The Three Big Stories:

1. The Food Test (Daniel 1:8–20)
   Daniel chooses faith over assimilation, refusing to defile himself with the king’s food. A simple act of obedience opens the door for God's favor and wisdom.
2. The Fiery Furnace (Daniel 3)
   Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego defy the king’s command to worship a golden statue. Their refusal lands them in the fire—where God meets them.
3. The Lion’s Den (Daniel 6)
   When a new law forbids prayer, Daniel stays faithful anyway. His boldness leads to a night with lions—and a miraculous deliverance that points to God’s glory.

💡 What These Stories Teach Us About God’s Sovereignty:

• The world will pressure you to conform—but God calls you to stand out.
• Trials aren’t signs of failure; they’re often signs of faithfulness.
• God always makes a way—even if it’s through the fire or the lions.
• Victory comes by faith, not by force.

📖 Scriptures Referenced:

• Daniel 1:8–20
• Daniel 3
• Daniel 6
• James 4:1
• Matthew 4 / Luke 4 (Jesus’ temptation)

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🎧 Listen now and be reminded: God isn’t surprised by your trial. He’s already made a way through it—and it’s your faith in Jesus that carries you forward.