Watch ye, stand fast in the faith,
quit you like men, be strong.
1 Corinthians 16:13
Lo! a shining, gold colossus,
Product of a kingly brain,
Shameful, lifeless, metal monster,
Stood on Dura's humid plain:
All the V.I.P.'s were gathered,
With the Chaldees cornet-band,
When the hour for dedication
Of the image came to hand.
From the Babylonian despot
Came a ruthless firm decree:
Fiery death to all dissenters
Who refuse to bow the knee.
Hark! the herald's proclamation,
As the band began to play,
"Give ye homage to the idol!"
All obeyed, save three that day.
Kingly anger, like a tempest,
Burst in fury 'gainst the Jews;
Royal warning, railing, pleading,
Could not shake those godly youths.
"In this matter we're not anxious,
For we have the mind of God,
Not to serve your wretched idol,
Though we feel your fiery rod !"
"Heat the furnace seven times hotter",
Cried the king, "and let them burn!"
Seems the place was air-conditioned
For their comfort, we discern!
Bonds were burnt to give them freedom;
Better was their lot in flame!
'Neath the wings of God's protection,
From the fire unsinged they came!
Faith in God will ever triumph
Through the medium of prayer:
For the Lord of Hebrew princes
Hath His mighty arm made bare.
He can turn man's wrath to praises,
And protect His servants, too:
Stand for truth, maintain His glory,
Honour God, He'll honour you!
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