Deeper Reflection
When we go through adversities and look to God for His
deliverance, we need to recognise that there is always the
possibility of “He does not deliver” (v.18a). Yes, God’s Word
tells us that “God is my salvation” (Isa 12:2a). However, when God does
not deliver, it does not mean that God is no more my salvation. But rather,
that it is still my firm belief and steadfast conviction that even when God
does not deliver, He is still my salvation and I will still “trust and not be
afraid” (Isa 12:2a). This is spiritual depth. And God builds spiritual depth
in our lives in this manner.When God does not deliver us, it can be that He does not deliver us
now or sooner than we wish, or it can be that He does not deliver at all.
Scripture calls us to view God’s deliverance eschatologically. Ultimate and
complete deliverance of God is eschatological. For the imprisoned Paul
with execution awaiting him, his anchor is eschatological: “The Lord will
rescue me from every evil deed and will bring me safely to His heavenly
kingdom” (2 Tim 4:18).For Shadrach, Mishael and Abednego, “Our God is able to deliver us…
and will deliver us” (v.17) reflects their assurance and confidence in
God. But their “Even if He does not deliver” (v.18a) demonstrates their
allegiance and commitment to their God – “we are not going to serve
your gods” (v.18b). For them, worship to God has priority over and is
greater than God’s deliverance. Deliverance or no deliverance, worship to
God will always remain.