Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and He will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even though He may not, we want Your Majesty to know we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” Daniel 3:16-18, Adapted

The three Judean exiles confidently refused to bow and worship the Babylonian King’s golden statue, fully aware that failure to conform could result in a horrible death, being burned alive. “Even though we are thrown into the fiery furnace, yet we will not serve anyone but God.”

We know that the story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego ended well. Not only did they survive the blazing furnace, the fire had no effect on their bodies. Moreover, Nebuchadnezzar had seen the fourth person in the fire, unharmed and walking around. God had indeed delivered the three men, and in doing so Nebuchadnezzar ultimately came to know the Most High God.

Note: “Even though” is a conjunction used to introduce a contrast or unexpected situation between two clauses.