More Than a Vending Machine

The danger -- especially for those of us who live in these times of unprecedented affluence and wealth -- is that we might make God into some kind of cosmic vending machine. If we put our quarter in (in the form of prayer, Bible study, church attendance, etc.), the candy bar better come out (in the form of answered prayer, blessings, etc.). If it does not, I'm liable to kick the machine to bits and walk away in a huff.

So, the question I must ask myself in light of this story in Daniel 3 is: I'm I putting the quarter in just to get the candy bar? Is the whole thing set up as a vending machine in the first place?

Relationships don't tend to work very well when they are approached in this way.