Daily Devotion, May 6, 2023

 

Devotion:

Read Daniel 3:8-18.

Learning in schools is offered at different levels in our culture. We get some of the basics in various settings and elementary school, move on through middle and high school, then into college. At the various levels, there comes the time of graduation, when the student is acknowledged to have completed the requirements of learning at that level. Then, after completing a basic degree in college, there are graduate-level curriculums and degrees offered, in which you can focus on a particular field and attain a higher level of learning in it.

This story about these three young Hebrew men during the time of the Exile has always been a source of amazement and inspiration to me. For me, it shows that they have attained the highest degree offered in being faithful and loyal to God. They were even willing to put their life on the line to stand firm in that faith.

You and I may not ever face a situation where we have to put our life on the line because of our faith in Jesus Christ, but we are called to keep growing in our faith and understanding of what it means to be the people of Christ. We are called and sent by him to put that faith and understanding into practice every day. May we all pray regularly for the “wisdom and courage” to be his people, no matter what.

Personal Worship Option:

Harry Emerson Fosdick wrote the words to this hymn in 1930 (from which I pulled the phrase mentioned above):

God of grace and God of glory, on thy people pour thy power;

crown thine ancient church’s story; bring her bud to glorious flower.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage for the facing of this hour.

Lo! the hosts of evil round us, scorn thy Christ, assail his ways!

Fears and doubts too long have bound us; free our hearts to work and praise.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, for the living of these days.