Read Esther 8 -- 10
In Today's Reading:
Esther's plea to reverse Haman's decree; enemies of the Jews destroyed; Festival of Purim instituted; Mordecai promoted to great honor
Haman's "wise counselors" had cast lots that were called purim to determine the most favorable day for the execution of all Jews. Haman's "lucky day" fell on the 13th day of the twelfth month (Esther 3:7-13; 9:1,24). Undoubtedly Haman felt fortunate that the lot had fallen on the last month of the year so that he would have plenty of time to make his evil plans to murder every Jew in the kingdom.
The fixed day of execution, which came to be known as Purim (Lots), was turned from death to deliverance by the intervening providence of God. Haman did not realize that Mordecai's God was in control of the affairs of earth. Even though man may cast the lot, it is the Lord Who determines the outcome (Proverbs 16:33).
Because even the king could not retract a decree made in his name, following Haman's execution, the king allowed Mordecai to write a new decree giving the Jews the right to defend themselves. On the day that the enemies of the Jews had planned to destroy them, the opposite happened and the Jews overpowered their enemies (Esther 9:1).
Esther is a testimony to the fact that, even in a secular society dominated by a heathen power, our God can and will protect His people. However, He expects us, like Esther, to respond courageously in faith to the threats of the Hamans of our world. When our situation seems critical, we too can seek His provision and protection, and when He wonderfully intervenes, we need to praise Him for it.
The peace and satisfaction enjoyed by Mordecai and Esther can be experienced by all who share our Lord's compassion for a lost world. The Book of Esther demonstrates how God uses faithful servants to even change world affairs in order to fulfill His Word. Everyone has a right to know they are lost sinners and need to know how to be saved from eternal hell (Romans 3:23; 5:8; John 14:6).
Christ Revealed:
By Mordecai's exaltation from servanthood to a position of honor and glory next to the king (Esther 8:2,15; 10:3). Christ came to earth as a servant and was exalted to the right hand of God (Philippians 2:7-9; Mark 16:19).
Word Studies:
8:3 put away the mischief = to avert the evil; device = scheme; 8:10 posts = couriers; 9:4 waxed greater and greater = became increasingly prominent and powerful.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Terry Cordell and the Bible Pathway Radio Broadcasts on KNTS-FM, John Day, OR · The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast in honor of Bonnie Wilhite · Government Officials: Rep. Steny Hoyer (MD), Rep. James Sensenbrenner, Jr. (WI), and Rep. Billy Tauzin (LA) · Country: France (59 million) in western Europe · Major language: French · Religious freedom · 74% Roman Catholic; 5% Muslim; 2% Protestant; 1% Jewish · Prayer Suggestion: Remember, what is impossible with men is possible with God (Matthew 19:26).
Optional Reading: Galatians 3
Memory Verse for the Week: II Timothy 3:16