In the book of Daniel, we are going to encounter our hero Daniel living in a society much like our own. The world wants God's people to conform to its standards and follow its practices. Daniel stands strong. Why? Because Daniel's God is the Sovereign God who rules the world. God is sovereign over the big things like international powers and God is sovereign over small things like the apparently insignificant lives of teenagers. God is sovereign over history and God is sovereign concerning the future. Our God is sovereign over all things.

Daniel's faithful service to the Lord in a land and culture not his own makes him unique amoung almost all the people of Scripture - Daniel stands as one of the only major figures in the Bible to produce a completely positive record of his actions.

This week's study is all about worship - who or what are YOU worshipping?

I encourage you to read Daniel chapter 3 before diving into the questions.

Plan to join us this Sunday morning at 10:30 am as we continue learning about our connection to Daniel.

Questions to Ponder

1. After Daniel tells King Nebuchadnezzar his dream and its interpretation, we read in Daniel 3 how King N responds. What does the king's response tell us about him? Why is it so difficult to let go of pride?

2. Notice the word worship is used 11 times in Daniel 3. Why is this word used so often? What does the king's command to worship the idol say about his arrogance? His fears?

3. In a culture that was accustomed to bowing before idols, the king's demand must have seemed like no big deal. Why were Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego able to disregard the king's command? Why do you think all of the Jews in Babylon didn't challenge the command?

4. These three men faced enormous pressure to conform. How does our culture pressure believers to reject God and conform to the status quo?

5. What are some of the idols that people worship in our culture today? What are some of the idols you bow down to? What makes it difficult for you to stand against these influences?

6. Why is it often too late to develop our convictions in the moment of truth?

7. When God doesn't deliver us from dangers, trials, disease or even death, does that mean He has abandoned us? Why or why not?

8. What are some examples in today's church of believers who have encouraged others by their bold actions of faith? How are their stories like or unlike the stories of these three young men?

9. How does the presence of Christ affect the way you face temptations to worship and chase after other gods?