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.