All of us from time to time struggle with fear! Two of the most popular sources of fear are the concern for safety and the fear of suffering. No right-minded person wants to suffer and who doesn’t want to be safe? But what do you do when following Jesus leads you to a place where your safety is threatened? Take a few moments to read and reflect on Daniel 3 and watch this video as we learn how to live fearless!
Passage: Daniel 3: 8-28
Scripture Questions:
1) What is the most interesting thing about this story for you?
2) What do you notice about God in these verses?
3) What were Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego risking by not worshiping the false idol?
4) Where do you see fear at work in the life of Nebuchadnezzar? How does God use that and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego’s example and act of faith to show his power?
5) How does the faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego change the Kings perspective and attitude toward God?
Application Questions:
1) What made following and standing up for God’s way worth everything to Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego? What makes following God’s way worth it for you?
2) When has fear inhibited a step of faith because of the risk that you might lose something?
3) What is God calling you to be faithful in this season or year despite the potential for pain or suffering?
4) Tell about a time when God showed up for you in the midst of a difficult situation. How did His presence make a difference in that instance?
5) In what ways can you, like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, be a living example of fearless faith to influence another’s life and perspective on God?
6) Is there a place in your life that you are facing pain and/or suffering and you need to move in faith but fear is holding you back? How can we as your small group help or pray for you? Reread the second part of verse 17. How can you apply this verse?