Today, as is my current habit, I spent some time in the afternoon listening to recorded preaching on the web.  I rarely get to hear anyone else teach and grow tired of the sound of my own voice (now would be a good time for you guys NOT to agree).  In a little known sermon concerning Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, Dr Martin Luther King stressed three important words, “But if not.”

When warned by King Nebuchadnezzar that failure to bow down to the image would result in death, the three Hebrew heroes found fame in their refusal.  Here’s the text . . .

If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us

from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand O King.  But if not, let it be known to you, O King, that we will not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up (Daniel 3:17-18)

In an age of preaching that often majors in “name it – claim it” religion, there is little time and attention given to the possibility that God might not act when and how we desire.  To reduce God to the level of a cosmic short order cook, existing only to answer our prayers and bring us peace, is to displace the very power source of all existence.  Our God is an awesome God, perfect in power and majesty!  The design is for us to make His will our own, not the other way around.

When we pray, “Thy will be done” can we be satisfied to learn that His will and our will may not match? Did you notice the similarity between Jesus’ prayer in the garden and the attitude of the three Hebrew Heroes?

O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. (But if not – wjt)

Your will be done (Mt. 26:39&42)