Lessons from Esther: Mordecai’s legacy

And the king Ahasuerus laid a tribute upon the land, and upon the isles of the sea. 2 And all the acts of his power and of his might, and the declaration of the greatness of Mordecai, whereunto the king advanced him, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Media and Persia? 3 For Mordecai the Jew was next unto king Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews, and accepted of the multitude of his brethren, seeking the wealth of his people, and speaking peace to all his seed. Esther 10

Esther and Mordecai are shining examples of doing right; they followed God’s lead, spoke out and saved a nation. Esther was not made queen of Persia by mistake but by the will of God. God led them each and every step of the way. Esther and Mordecai made the choice to follow God’s lead.

As we close this study of the book of Esther, Mordecai is showcased in the last chapter, a small chapter of three verses.

King Ahasuerus had promoted Mordecai to be “second in command”. He not only found favor with the king, but with his fellow Jews.

Mordecai did all in his power to help the Jews. They were not envious but glad that Mordecai was in a high position. He was willing to help his fellow man and “speaking peace to all his seed”.

Mordecai’s legacy is written in the “book of the chronicles of the kings of Media and Persia” as well as in The Bible.

Elizabeth George in Becoming a Woman of Beauty and Strength – Esther outlines the ten chapters of Esther in an acrostic:

Persian decree against Vashti

Uncle (or cousin) Mordecai saves king

Revenge plotted by Haman

Intercession made to Esther

Making dinner for Ahasuerus

Favor shown to Mordecai

Esther requests her life

Ahasuerus give Mordecai promotion

Sons of Haman hanged

Testimony to Mordecai’s greatness

This is the end of my lessons of Esther. We know Esther and Mordecai’s legacy, but what is our legacy to our family, friends and coworkers? Are we a testimony of the greatness and goodness of the Lord?

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: Esther’s letter

29 Then Esther the queen, the daughter of Abihail, and Mordecai the Jew, wrote with all authority, to confirm this second letter of Purim. 30 And he sent the letters unto all the Jews, to the hundred twenty and seven provinces of the kingdom of Ahasuerus, with words of peace and truth, 31 To confirm these days of Purim in their times appointed, according as Mordecai the Jew and Esther the queen had enjoined them, and as they had decreed for themselves and for their seed, the matters of the fastings and their cry. 32 And the decree of Esther confirmed these matters of Purim; and it was written in the book. Esther 9:29-32

A second letter, Esther’s letter, is written and sent to all the Jews. This letter is to confirm the days of Purim. She was verifying Moridecai’s letter and encouraging the Jewish community to never forget this time in their history. The letter was sent with “words of peace and truth”.

Jewish communities took heed to this writing and celebrate yearly the victory given to them by the Almighty God in Heaven.

Take a few minutes today to thank God for everything in your life, it may be small, it may be big, it may be good, it may be bad, but in everything there is a lesson. Thank Him for his goodness and graciousness in all trials and tribulations.  

Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; Ephesians 5:20

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. I Thessalonians 5:18

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. Hebrews 13;15

Remember to be thankful!

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: Remember

20 And Mordecai wrote these things, and sent letters unto all the Jews that were in all the provinces of the king Ahasuerus, both nigh and far, 21 To stablish this among them, that they should keep the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and the fifteenth day of the same, yearly, 22 As the days wherein the Jews rested from their enemies, and the month which was turned unto them from sorrow to joy, and from mourning into a good day: that they should make them days of feasting and joy, and of sending portions one to another, and gifts to the poor. 23  And the Jews undertook to do as they had begun, and as Mordecai had written unto them; 24 Because Haman the son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, the enemy of all the Jews, had devised against the Jews to destroy them, and had cast Pur, that is, the lot, to consume them, and to destroy them;  

25 But when Esther came before the king, he commanded by letters that his wicked device, which he devised against the Jews, should return upon his own head, and that he and his sons should be hanged on the gallows. 26 Wherefore they called these days Purim after the name of Pur. Therefore for all the words of this letter, and of that which they had seen concerning this matter, and which had come unto them, 27 The Jews ordained, and took upon them, and upon their seed, and upon all such as joined themselves unto them, so as it should not fail, that they would keep these two days according to their writing, and according to their appointed time every year; 28 And that these days should be remembered and kept throughout every generation, every family, every province, and every city; and that these days of Purim should not fail from among the Jews, nor the memorial of them perish from their seed. Esther 9:20-28

Mordecai again writes letters to all the Jews in all 127 provinces. This time the letter is a communication of good news. He is recapping the story of the last year.

He begins by reminding them of Haman’s dastardly deed. Mordecai tells about the queen and her appeal to the king. He tells the whole account. His main purpose is to keep every detail in the forefront of their minds. He wants the 14^th and 15^th of Adar to be established as a special feast day. Not just for the current year but to celebrate yearly and to keep it as a memorial for generations to come. Mordecai wants the Jewish nation to never, ever forget what happened. The celebrating is for them to share their blessings by “sending portions” to each other and giving “gifts to the poor.” Along with the giving the story of Queen Esther is to be shared. Even though the name of God is not mentioned He wants them to realize why they were victorious.

The Jewish people still celebrate Purim. This year it is March 15-16. The main reason is to remember. Remember what God did for the nation.

How about you? Are there things that you need to remember?

Remember where God found you.

He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. Psalm 40:2

Remember what Jesus did for you.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. John 3:16-17

Remember God’s love for you.

Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

perfect in love. I John 4:10

We love him, because he first loved us. I John 4:19

A few “remembering” quotes:

Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it. ~ George Santayana

Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn. ~ Benjamin Franklin

We must remember that one determined person can make a significant difference, and that a small group of determined people can change the course of history. ~ Sonia Johnson

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: Feasting and gladness

16 But the other Jews that were in the king's provinces gathered themselves together, and stood for their lives, and had rest from their enemies, and slew of their foes seventy and five thousand, but they laid not their hands on the prey, 17 On the thirteenth day of the month Adar; and on the fourteenth day of the same rested they, and made it a day of feasting and gladness. 18 But the Jews that were at Shushan assembled together on the thirteenth day thereof, and on the fourteenth thereof; and on the fifteenth day of the same they rested, and made it a day of feasting and gladness. 19 Therefore the Jews of the villages, that dwelt in the unwalled towns, made the fourteenth day of the month Adar a day of gladness and feasting, and a good day, and of sending portions one to another. Ether 9:16-19

The battles are ended and victory belongs to the Jews. The death toll outside of the king’s city is high, very high at 75,000. Again it is mentioned that the Jews did not take any spoil.

The goal was to defend their lives. They fought so they could live. When the conflict ended they gathered together to rest and rejoice by feasting. The Jews in the king’s provinces fought on the 13^th and celebrated on the 14^th day. The Jews in Shushan fought on the 13^th and 14^th days and celebrated on the 15^th day. Remember, Esther asked for another day of battle in the palace city.

The scriptures say it was “a day of gladness and feasting, and a good day, and of sending portions one to another” verse 19. The Jews had so much, so very much to be glad about. How about you? Can you celebrate today as a “gladness” day? Take a few minutes to name things you are glad about.

I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High. Psalm 9:2

I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy: for thou hast considered my trouble; thou hast known my soul in adversities; Psalm 31:7

Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart. Psalm 32:11

Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually, The LORD be magnified. Psalm 40:6

My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD. Psalm 104:34

The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad. Psalm 126:3

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: The sons of Haman

And in Shushan the palace the Jews slew and destroyed five hundred men. :7 And Parshandatha, and Dalphon, and Aspatha, 8 And Poratha, and Adalia, and Aridatha, 9 And Parmashta, and Arisai, and Aridai, and Vajezatha, 10 The ten sons of Haman the son of Hammedatha, the enemy of the Jews, slew they; but on the spoil laid they not their hand. 11 On that day the number of those that were slain in Shushan the palace was brought before the king. 12 And the king said unto Esther the queen, The Jews have slain and destroyed five hundred men in Shushan the palace, and the ten sons of Haman; what have they done in the rest of the king's provinces? now what is thy petition? and it shall be granted thee: or what is thy request further? and it shall be done.  13 Then said Esther, If it please the king, let it be granted to the Jews which are in Shushan to do to morrow also according unto this day's decree, and let Haman's ten sons be hanged upon the gallows. 14 And the king commanded it so to be done: and the decree was given at Shushan; and they hanged Haman's ten sons. 15 For the Jews that were in Shushan gathered themselves together on the fourteenth day also of the month Adar, and slew three hundred men at Shushan; but on the prey they laid not their hand. Esther 9:6-15

The fighting continues, Jews everywhere are “fighting for their life”. Enemies of the Jews are falling rapidly. All of Haman’s sons are killed with many more of their countrymen.

Each of Haman’s sons is named in this portion of scripture. The death toll is getting higher. The king receives the number of deaths (500)and tells Esther. He also asks if she has any petitions, which he will grant.

Esther asks for the sons of Haman to be hanged on the gallows. She also asks for another day for her countrymen to fight. A total of eight hundred men were killed in Shushan, the city where the palace was located.

In all this, the Jews did not take any spoil, even though they were entitled to it according to the king’s decree.

The words of Psalm 118, though written by King David, fit in this section of Esther’s story.

5 I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. 6 The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? 7 The LORD taketh my part with them that help me: therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me. 8 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. 9 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes. 10 All nations compassed me about: but in the name of the LORD will I destroy them. Psalm 118:5-10

Esther continued to trust God with every being of her life. We need to trust God with the details of our life.

And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee. Psalm 9:10

... Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust. Psalm 16:1

Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. Psalm 37:5

Join me next week as I finish Esther’s story.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: The fateful day

1 Now in the twelfth month, that is, the month Adar, on the thirteenth day of the same, when the king’s commandment and his decree drew near to be put in execution, in the day that the enemies of the Jews hoped to have power over them, (though it was turned to the contrary, that the Jews had rule over them that hated them;) 2 The Jews gathered themselves together in their cities throughout all the provinces of the king Ahasuerus, to lay hand on such as sought their hurt: and no man could withstand them; for the fear of them fell upon all people. 3 And all the rulers of the provinces, and the lieutenants, and the deputies, and officers of the king, helped the Jews; because the fear of Mordecai fell upon them. 4 For Mordecai was great in the king’s house, and his fame went out throughout all the provinces: for this man Mordecai waxed greater and greater. 5Thus the Jews smote all their enemies with the stroke of the sword, and slaughter, and destruction, and did what they would unto those that hated them. Esther 9:1-5

The “fateful” day arrives, the day of death for the Jews, which was the original plan from Haman. The hand of God has “turned the tables” on the enemies of the Jews.

The Jews have banded together and made plans of attack and plans of protection. A curious thing has taken place, in verse 2 it says “the fear of them fell upon all people.” Not only could they now stand up for themselves but a fear has fallen over their enemies.

The battles are fierce and deadly and the Jews are winning at every turn.

As I read, again I can see the hand of God. The Jews have gone from a people of no hope to a people with hope abounding as they win battle after battle.

We may not face physical hand to hand battles as the Jews faced during Esther’s time, but we do face daily battles. For each battle we face there is a solution in God’s word.

Below are a few ‘battles” I have been in, some victorious, and some I’m still working on.

Problems with anger

James 1:19-20; Proverbs 14:16-17; Proverbs 14:29; I Corinthians 13:4-5 Proverbs 15:18; Proverbs 25:28; Proverbs 29:22; Proverbs 15:18

Problems with forgiveness

Matthew 6:12; Matthew 6:14-15; Matthew 18:21-22; Matthew 23:25; Ephesians 4:31-32; Matthew 11:25

Problems with mouth/tongue

Psalm 34:13-14; Psalm 35:28; Psalm 19:14 Ecclesiastes 5:2; James 1:26; Ephesians 4:29; Titus 3:2

Problems with contentment

Phil 4:11; I Timothy 6:8 II Corinthians 10:12

This is just the tip of the iceberg in the problems/battles we may face. The Bible has the answer. We need to be willing to search for the answers. After searching we need to apply what we learned to our lives, sometimes it means changing the way we do things or taking things out of our lives (sinful acts/deeds etc.) or putting things into our lives (family time/reading the Word etc). Whatever the battle, God is with us. He gives us the strength of His Word to endure the trials.

For thou hast girded me with strength unto the battle: thou hast subdued under me those that rose up against me. Psalm 18:39

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: The letters are “in the mail”

14 So the posts that rode upon mules and camels went out, being hastened and pressed on by the king's commandment. And the decree was given at Shushan the palace. 15 And Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal apparel of blue and white, and with a great crown of gold, and with a garment of fine linen and purple: and the city of Shushan rejoiced and was glad. 16 The Jews had light, and gladness, and joy, and honour. 17 And in every province, and in every city, whithersoever the king's commandment and his decree came, the Jews had joy and gladness, a feast and a good day. And many of the people of the land became Jews; for the fear of the Jews fell upon them. Esther 8:14-17

The letters are sent and the decree given, the Jews will have the right to fight their oppressors. It almost seems like a collective sigh goes out from all the Jews.

Mordecai goes out in royal apparel with the crown and fine garments that the king has given him. There is rejoicing and the people are beside themselves with happiness.

They were happy because now they would have a “fighting chance”. A feast was held and “many people of the land became Jews…” The tables have been turned, instead of cursing and putting down the Jews perhaps the people could “see the hand of God” in the turning of events.

How about you? Can you rejoice and be glad of the “events” in your life? Can you see God working?  Here are a few verses of encouragement.

Be glad:

You are a Christian

Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart. Psalm 32:11

I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy: for thou hast considered my trouble; thou hast known my soul in adversities; Psalm 31:7

You can trust in God:

The righteous shall be glad in the LORD, and shall trust in him; and all the upright in heart shall glory. Psalm 64:10

But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee. Psalm 5:11

The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence. II Samuel 22:3

He is your strength

... God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1

... for the joy of the LORD is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10

You are alive

This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

You are redeemed:

Therefore the redeemed of the LORD shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away. Isaiah 51:11

Jesus is coming again

And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. John 14:3

 Have a blessed day, 

Donna

Lessons from Esther: The king’s permission

8 Write ye also for the Jews, as it liketh you, in the king's name, and seal it with the king's ring: for the writing which is written in the king's name, and sealed with the king's ring, may no man reverse. 9 Then were the king's scribes called at that time in the third month, that is, the month Sivan, on the three and twentieth day thereof; and it was written according to all that Mordecai commanded unto the Jews, and to the lieutenants, and the deputies and rulers of the provinces which are from India unto Ethiopia, an hundred twenty and seven provinces, unto every province according to the writing thereof, and unto every people after their language, and to the Jews according to their writing, and according to their language. 10 And he wrote in the king Ahasuerus' name, and sealed it with the king's ring, and sent letters by posts on horseback, and riders on mules, camels, and young dromedaries: 11 Wherein the king granted the Jews which were in every city to gather themselves together, and to stand for their life, to destroy, to slay, and to cause to perish, all the power of the people and province that would assault them, both little ones and women, and to take the spoil of them for a prey, 12 Upon one day in all the provinces of king Ahasuerus, namely, upon the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar. 13 The copy of the writing for a commandment to be given in every province was published unto all people, and that the Jews should be ready against that day to avenge themselves on their enemies. Esther 8:8-13

The king has not finished his proposal. He now explains the rest of his plan. The first thing that needs to be done is to start the “writing campaign”. Letters need to be written and delivered to all 127 provinces.

This was not a job for Mordecai but the king’s scribes were called in to do the job. Remember there were no computers, iPads, word processors or even typewriters. Each word needed to be written by hand. Each letter was written separately, over and over the words were written in 127 letters. The letters were written in the various languages of the provinces, this was a very labor intensive project. Each letter was sealed by the king’s special seal; the letters could not be reversed. As always what the king said would stand.

When the writing was done, the letters were packed and sent by horse, mules, camels and even dromedaries. This was serious business the news had to get out and get out fast.

This letter was to counteract the letter sent by Haman. The letter sent by Haman stated:

13 And the letters were sent by posts into all the king's provinces, to destroy, to kill, and to cause to perish, all Jews, both young and old, little children and women, in one day, even upon the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, and to take the spoil of them for a prey. 14 The copy of the writing for a commandment to be given in every province was published unto all people, that they should be ready against that day. Esther 3:13-14

The letter that Mordecai sent said the Jews could fight back and defend themselves against “all the power of the people…that would assault them” (Esther 8:11-12). Now the Jews could prepare to fight, they could get together and make plans on how to defend themselves.

Throughout the book we do not see the name of God, but Mordecai and Esther certainly trusted the Lord. He would see them and their people through this horrible time.

As Christians, we need to trust God. He knows the end of the story and He will be with us, as He was with Mordecai and Esther, in all troubles and tribulations.

The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. Psalm 18:2

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God. Psalm 20:7

Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. Psalm 37:5

What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. Psalm 56:3

Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah. Psalm 62:8

It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. Psalm 118:8

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6 

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: Before the king

3 And Esther spake yet again before the king, and fell down at his feet, and besought him with tears to put away the mischief of Haman the Agagite, and his device that he had devised against the Jews. 4 Then the king held out the golden sceptre toward Esther. So Esther arose, and stood before the king, 5 And said, If it please the king, and if I have found favour in his sight, and the thing seem right before the king, and I be pleasing in his eyes, let it be written to reverse the letters devised by Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, which he wrote to destroy the Jews which are in all the king's provinces: 6 For how can I endure to see the evil that shall come unto my people? or how can I endure to see the destruction of my kindred? 7 Then the king Ahasuerus said unto Esther the queen and to Mordecai the Jew, Behold, I have given Esther the house of Haman, and him they have hanged upon the gallows, because he laid his hand upon the Jews. Esther 8:3-7

The wicked Haman is dead but his dastardly deed will continue unless Someone steps in.

Esther is “beside herself” she is ready to burst from sorrow. Something needs to be done before the dreaded day, when all the Jews will be killed. She pleads with the king to remedy the situation before it is too late.

In Esther 3:13 we read, “And the letters were sent by posts into all the king's provinces, to destroy, to kill, and to cause to perish, all Jews, both young and old, little children and women, in one day, even upon the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, and to take the spoil of them for a prey.”

Esther asks the king to reverse the letters that Haman had sent to all the provinces. She is pleading and interceding for her people, the Jews. This is a picture of what we as Christians should be doing daily, interceding on the behalf of others.

·        Hear my prayer, O God; give ear to the words of my mouth. Psalm 54:2

·        The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer. Psalm 6:9

·        Give ear, O LORD, unto my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications. Psalm 86:6

·        Let my prayer come before thee: incline thine ear unto my cry; Psalm 88:2

·        Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee. Psalm 122:6

·        Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. Romans 10:1

·        Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6

Ahasuerus reminds Esther and Mordecai what he has done so far in regard to the serious situation. He had Haman hanged and he gave Haman’s house to Esther. This is not exactly what Esther was referring to, she wanted to save the lives of her people and without a reversal of the decree they were doomed.

Join me the next time to find out the rest of the solution.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: Relationships revealed

1 On that day did the king Ahasuerus give the house of Haman the Jews' enemy unto Esther the queen. And Mordecai came before the king; for Esther had told what he was unto her. 2 And the king took off his ring, which he had taken from Haman, and gave it unto Mordecai. And Esther set Mordecai over the house of Haman. Esther 8:1-2

Esther “comes clean” before the king and explains that Mordecai is her cousin. Ahasuerus has an immediate liking to Mordecai, remembering his deed of saving the king’s life.

The king removes his ring and gives it to Mordecai. Jamieson, Fausett and Brown commentary: “By that act transferring to him all the power and authority which the ring symbolized, and promoting him to the high dignity which Haman had formerly filled.”

Mordecai is given the position of “second in command”. He is also given the “house of Haman” to oversee and manage the estate and property.

This might seem to be the “end of the story” but more is yet to come.  There is only nine months before the Jews will be attacked, according to the original decree. Join me the next time to find out what happens.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: The second banquet

1 So the king and Haman came to banquet with Esther the queen. 2 And the king said again unto Esther on the second day at the banquet of wine, What is thy petition, queen Esther? and it shall be granted thee: and what is thy request? and it shall be performed, even to the half of the kingdom. 3 Then Esther the queen answered and said, If I have found favour in thy sight, O king, and if it please the king, let my life be given me at my petition, and my people at my request: 4 For we are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish. But if we had been sold for bondmen and bondwomen, I had held my tongue, although the enemy could not countervail the king's damage. 5Then the king Ahasuerus answered and said unto Esther the queen, Who is he, and where is he, that durst presume in his heart to do so? 6 And Esther said, The adversary and enemy is this wicked Haman. Then Haman was afraid before the king and the queen. 7 And the king arising from the banquet of wine in his wrath went into the palace garden: and Haman stood up to make request for his life to Esther the queen; for he saw that there was evil determined against him by the king. 8 Then the king returned out of the palace garden into the place of the banquet of wine; and Haman was fallen upon the bed whereon Esther was. Then said the king, Will he force the queen also before me in the house? As the word went out of the king's mouth, they covered Haman's face. 9 And Harbonah, one of the chamberlains, said before the king, Behold also, the gallows fifty cubits high, which Haman had made for Mordecai, who had spoken good for the king, standeth in the house of Haman. Then the king said, Hang him thereon. 10 So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then was the king's wrath pacified. Esther 7

The day has arrived; the second banquet of Queen Esther is now in progress. The king and Haman arrive at the banquet. After a little wine, the king asks Queen Esther for her request. “Just ask, and you will receive up to half of the kingdom.”

Esther “jumps in” with both feet. She immediately starts to plead for her life as well as “her” people’s lives. She makes mention of not saying a word if they were only going to be sold for slaves, but this is death. The people have been sold to be totally destroyed.

Ahasuerus appears to be a little shocked. Sometimes I wonder was he even paying attention. He was the one who took the money and signed the decree. Then I come to my senses, God is in total control. God knows the whole story, beginning to end. Proverbs 8:15-16 tells us: By me kings reign, and princes decree justice. By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth.

God has allowed the rulers to reign. Even though God’s name is not mentioned even once in the book of Esther, His very being is weaved throughout the entire book.

Ahasuerus is getting very upset. He demands to know who would do such a deed. Esther knows, now is the time to speak, now is the right moment to come clean before the king and reveal the evil mastermind, Haman. As Esther says his name, Haman is “shaking in his boots”. He has been exposed and panic takes over.

The king, in shock, leaves the banquet to get fresh air in the garden. He needs to clear his head and take a moment to think.

Haman sees this as an opportunity to plead with the queen. He has worked with the king for many years and knows he can be “hot headed” and quick tempered. Haman falls on the bed where Esther is and appeals for mercy. Ahasuerus comes back in the banquet and is shocked by what he sees, Haman on the bed with Esther. He does not need an explanation, his mind is made up. Haman’s face is covered which signified his death was eminent.

One of the chamberlains tells the king about the gallows. The next words out of the king’s mouth were “hang him on it”.  The wicked Haman comes to a speedy death and the king’s rage is pacified.

What can we learn from Haman’s wicked life?

1. He was responsible for his actions.

So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. Romans 14:12

2. He did  not “get away” with doing wrong

But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out. Numbers 32:23

3. Haman reaped what he sowed

He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity: and the rod of his anger shall fail. Proverbs 22:8

Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. Galatians 6:7

4. God is in control and the Final Judge

The LORD is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah. Psalm 9:16

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. II Corinthians 5:10

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: What a difference a day makes

10 Then the king said to Haman, Make haste, and take the apparel and the horse, as thou hast said, and do even so to Mordecai the Jew, that sitteth at the king's gate: let nothing fail of all that thou hast spoken. 11 Then took Haman the apparel and the horse, and arrayed Mordecai, and brought him on horseback through the street of the city, and proclaimed before him, Thus shall it be done unto the man whom the king delighteth to honour. 12 And Mordecai came again to the king's gate. But Haman hasted to his house mourning, and having his head covered. 13 And Haman told Zeresh his wife and all his friends every thing that had befallen him. Then said his wise men and Zeresh his wife unto him, If Mordecai be of the seed of the Jews, before whom thou hast begun to fall, thou shalt not prevail against him, but shalt surely fall before him. 14 And while they were yet talking with him, came the king's chamberlains, and hasted to bring Haman unto the banquet that Esther had prepared. Esther 6: 10-14

Haman has given the king “advice”. Now he is waiting for the king to honor him. Imagine his shock and surprise when the king replies, “Great idea, please go and do all those things to Mordecai, the Jew.”

Haman is mortified. What did the king say? Mordecai, the Jew? He wants me to give all this honor that should be bestowed on me, to Mordecai, the Jew? Haman disapprovingly obeys. He knows better than to speak out to the king. He walks through the city proclaiming the name of Mordecai and shouting through the streets, “This is what is done to the man whom the king delights to honor.”

When the presentation is complete, Mordecai, humbly, goes back to the king’s gate, where he normally sits. Haman, on the other hand, is humiliated, shamed, and totally embarrassed. Haman covers his head in disgrace and runs home.

Haman relays the story to his wife and friends. Basically their reply is, “looks like your days are numbered, the tables have been turned.” While he is feeling the entire weight of the world on his shoulders, a knock is heard at the door. The chamberlains are waiting on Haman to bring him to Queen Esther’s banquet.

One can almost hear Haman’s heart stop for a second. His breath is uneasy and he feels like fainting, but he needs to attend the “feast.”

What will be presented at the banquet? Join me the next time to observe the scene.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: Who is in the court?

4 And the king said, Who is in the court? Now Haman was come into the outward court of the king's house, to speak unto the king to hang Mordecai on the gallows that he had prepared for him. 5 And the king's servants said unto him, Behold, Haman standeth in the court. And the king said, Let him come in. 6 So Haman came in. And the king said unto him, What shall be done unto the man whom the king delighteth to honour? Now Haman thought in his heart, To whom would the king delight to do honour more than to myself? 7  And Haman answered the king, For the man whom the king delighteth to honour, 8 Let the royal apparel be brought which the king useth to wear, and the horse that the king rideth upon, and the crown royal which is set upon his head: 9 And let this apparel and horse be delivered to the hand of one of the king's most noble princes, that they may array the man withal whom the king delighteth to honour, and bring him on horseback through the street of the city, and proclaim before him, Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king delighteth to honour. Esther 6:4-9

As we continue from the last time, the king desires to honor Mordecai. Ahasuerus wants to show his appreciation for saving his life. He wonders what to do to honor Mordecai. He asks the servant who is in the court, looking for someone to consult with.

The servant tells Ahasuerus that Haman is waiting outside. The king is greatly relieved; he will be able to ask his “second in command”. He will surely know the proper way to show honor to Mordecai.

Haman is quickly brought before the king. Notice what the king asks, “What shall be done to the man whom the king delights to honor”. Ahasuerus does not mention the name of the person. He is basically looking for someone to give him ideas.

The prideful Haman mistakenly assumes the king is talking about him. Haman pours out his corrupt heart. “O King this would be the perfect thing to do for the person you wish to honor, bring out the robes that you use to wear, get the best horse that you ride and don’t forget to bring the beautiful royal crown to place on the head of the honoree. Then, O King, once the person is arrayed in “all his glory” have one of the princes walk through the town, leading the horse with the honoree and proclaim, “This is what is done to the man whom the king delights to honor.”

Haman is “beside” himself, he cannot wait to be presented in the streets of the city. He is so sure the king is talking about him.

Join me the next time to find out what happens when Haman realizes who will be honored.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: A sleepless night

On that night could not the king sleep, and he commanded to bring the book of records of the chronicles; and they were read before the king. 2 And it was found written, that Mordecai had told of Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king's chamberlains, the keepers of the door, who sought to lay hand on the king Ahasuerus. 3 And the king said, What honour and dignity hath been done to Mordecai for this? Then said the king's servants that ministered unto him, There is nothing done for him. Esther 6:1-3

Have you ever had a sleepless night? What do you do? Read? Clean the house? Just lay in bed?

After the first banquet King Ahasuerus had just that kind of night. He could not sleep no matter what he did. He finally got up and read. Well, he was the king so he didn’t do the actual reading but had someone read to him.

The book that was read was not the latest novel or the current biography but “the book of records of the chronicles”. It does not sound interesting to me, but then again, I’m not a king.

Jamieson, Fausett and Brown commentary: “In Eastern courts, there are scribes or officers whose duty it is to keep a journal of every occurrence worthy of notice. A book of this kind, abounding with anecdotes, is full of interest. It has been a custom with Eastern kings, in all ages, frequently to cause the annals of the kingdom to be read to them. It is resorted to, not merely as a pastime to while away the tedium of an hour, but as a source of instruction to the monarch, by reviewing the important incidents of his own life, as well as those of his ancestors. There was, therefore, nothing uncommon in this Persian monarch calling for the court journal. But, in his being unable to sleep at that particular juncture, in his ordering the book then to be read to him, and in his attention having been specially directed to the important and as yet unrewarded services of Mordecai, the immediate interposition of Providence is distinctly visible.”

As the chronicles were being read Ahasuerus hears something he did not know. Mordecai had reported a plot to kill the king. The king could not believe what he heard; this account was never brought to his attention. What honor was Mordecai given for his quick action in saving the life of the king?

The answer to the question was another shock to the king; nothing had been done to honor Mordecai.

Join me the next time to find out Mordecai’s “reward”.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: Haman’s plan

10 Nevertheless Haman refrained himself: and when he came home, he sent and called for his friends, and Zeresh his wife. 11 And Haman told them of the glory of his riches, and the multitude of his children, and all the things wherein the king had promoted him, and how he had advanced him above the princes and servants of the king. 12 Haman said moreover, Yea, Esther the queen did let no man come in with the king unto the banquet that she had prepared but myself; and to morrow am I invited unto her also with the king. 13 Yet all this availeth me nothing, so long as I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the king's gate. 14 Then said Zeresh his wife and all his friends unto him, Let a gallows be made of fifty cubits high, and to morrow speak thou unto the king that Mordecai may be hanged thereon: then go thou in merrily with the king unto the banquet. And the thing pleased Haman; and he caused the gallows to be made. Esther 5:10-14

Haman continues his journey towards home. He is angry, very angry but he controls himself until he reaches his house. Upon arrival he calls all his family and friends together to brag on “his good fortune”. He tells the whole story; he alone was invited to a banquet with the king and queen, not once but twice, for he will be attending another one the next day. One can see Haman is still full of pride.

A few quotes on pride:

 Pride is the ground in which all the other sins grow, and the parent from which all the other sins come. ~ William Barclay

Pride is the only known disease that makes everybody sick except the person who has it ~ Author Unknown

Pride is the master sin of the devil. ~ E.H. Chapin

As Haman continues with his story, he stops “cold in his tracks” as he thinks about Mordecai and the lack of respect shown to him.

Zeresh, his wife, has a grand idea. Build a gallows fifty cubits high to hang Mordecai. Albert Barnes describes a gallows in Haman’s time, “A gallows, in the ordinary sense, is scarcely intended, since hanging was not a Persian punishment. The intention, no doubt, was to crucify or impale Mordecai; and the pale or cross was to be 75 feet high, to make the punishment more conspicuous.”

His wife continues with her idea. Make sure you talk to the king tomorrow at the banquet and let him know about the gallows and this “brilliant” plan. At the end of her dialog, Haman was back to his “chipper self”. He could probably picture Mordecai hanging on the gallows.

Join me the next time to see if Haman’s plan comes to fruition.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: The Special Banquet

6 And the king said unto Esther at the banquet of wine, What is thy petition? and it shall be granted thee: and what is thy request? even to the half of the kingdom it shall be performed. 7 Then answered Esther, and said, My petition and my request is; 8 If I have found favour in the sight of the king, and if it please the king to grant my petition, and to perform my request, let the king and Haman come to the banquet that I shall prepare for them, and I will do to morrow as the king hath said. 9 Then went Haman forth that day joyful and with a glad heart: but when Haman saw Mordecai in the king's gate, that he stood not up, nor moved for him, he was full of indignation against Mordecai. Esther 5:6-9

The banquet is ready and the food and wine are served. Still very curious about why the queen would request his presence the king asks again, “what is your request?”

Esther does not have complete peace. Fasting for wisdom and guidance from the Lord she knows this is not the time to speak about the situation regarding her people. Esther quickly asks for another banquet. Again she requests the presence of both the king and Haman. The king, as we see from previous chapters, loves a good banquet. He confirms for both of them and I’m sure Esther starts the preparations right away. This next banquet needs to be perfect and the time needs to be right for her to brooch the delicate subject.

Imagine the pride that is welling up in Haman. Not just one banquet but two, he is “beside” himself. Being invited to a private banquet with just the king and queen, could he be any more special.

Haman’s joy is soon turned to indignation when he sees Mordecai. Indigation from the Hebrew means heat; figuratively anger, poison (from its fever): - … In other words, he is so hot with anger that it makes his blood curdle.

There are a few lessons to be learned from this short portion of scripture:

1. There are times to speak and there are times to be quiet.

… a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; Ecclesiastes 3:7

Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: James 1:19

2. Don’t let pride “creep” in

The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts. Psalm 10:4

When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom. Proverbs 11:2

In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.  Proverbs 14:3

Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18

A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit. Proverbs 29:23

3. Beware of anger

Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. Psalm 37:8

A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.  Proverbs 15:18

Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:  Ephesians 4:31

Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.  Ecclesiastes 7:9

As we travel in our daily life let’s put on the courage of Esther (#1) not the character of Haman (#2&3).

Have a blessed day, 

Donna

Lessons from Esther: The third day

1 Now it came to pass on the third day, that Esther put on her royal apparel, and stood in the inner court of the king's house, over against the king's house: and the king sat upon his royal throne in the royal house, over against the gate of the house. 2 And it was so, when the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, that she obtained favour in his sight: and the king held out to Esther the golden sceptre that was in his hand. So Esther drew near, and touched the top of the sceptre. 3 Then said the king unto her, What wilt thou, queen Esther? and what is thy request? it shall be even given thee to the half of the kingdom. 4 And Esther answered, If it seem good unto the king, let the king and Haman come this day unto the banquet that I have prepared for him. 5 Then the king said, Cause Haman to make haste, that he may do as Esther hath said. So the king and Haman came to the banquet that Esther had prepared. Esther 5:1-5

The third day arrived. Mordecai and his people and Esther and her people have been fasting for three days. The fast was for a positive outcome when Esther appeared before the king. Remember the Lord’s name is not mentioned in the Book of Esther, but He is seen throughout. They are fasting before God to get an answer and assurance from Him in this difficult situation. Esther is now ready to appear before the king.

Esther adorned herself with the beautiful royal garments. She is ready and waiting for an audience with the king. As soon as the king sees his queen he holds the royal scepter out to her. He does not seem upset or angry but probably glad to see his queen. “What is your request Queen Esther, ask and I will grant it up to half of the kingdom.”

The answer probably surprised the king. “Let the king and Haman come to a banquet I prepared for you.” Without hesitation the king and Haman go to the banquet that Esther already had prepared.

Join me the next time to find out about the special feast that was ready.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: For such a time as this

For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father’s house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this? 15 Then Esther bade them return Mordecai this answer, 16 Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish. 17 So Mordecai went his way, and did according to all that Esther had commanded him.  Esther 4:14-17

Mordecai continues his discourse with Hatach. He reminds Esther where she is living; basically reminding her that it was not by accident that she is living in the palace. “Who knows whether you are come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”

Out of all the girls that went to the “beauty pageant”, the king picks a little Jewish girl, a captive from Jerusalem brought to Babylon. This was not a coincidence; God was in control of the entire situation. God knew Vashti was going to be dethroned. God knew a search would be made for a new queen. God knew who the new queen would be; I believe God had picked the new queen because God knew wicked Haman’s heart.

“Dr. A.W. Tozer compared God’s sovereign purposes to an ocean liner leaving New York City, bound for Liverpool, England. The people on board the ship are free to do as they please, but they aren’t free to change the course of the ship. The mighty liner of God’s sovereign design keeps its steady course over the sea of history.” – Be Committed – Warren W. Wiersbe

This time Mordecai “got through to Esther”. Her reply was for him to get all the Jews together and fast for her. She would also get all the maids together and would fast. After the three day fast “I will go to the king, if I perish I perish.” She was now determined she would not stop until she got an answer or she died.

Each one of us is living where we should be, doing the job we should be doing for “such a time as this”. Are we looking for opportunities to share the gospel, to be a witness, to be a helping hand, to show others that we do have answers from the word of God?

Wherever you are living, whatever job you are performing, whatever school or church you may be attending, do all for the glory of God.

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. I Corinthians 10:31

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: Communication between Mordecai and the palace

And Hatach came and told Esther the words of Mordecai. 10 Again Esther spake unto Hatach, and gave him commandment unto Mordecai; 11 All the king's servants, and the people of the king's provinces, do know, that whosoever, whether man or woman, shall come unto the king into the inner court, who is not called, there is one law of his to put him to death, except such to whom the king shall hold out the golden sceptre, that he may live: but I have not been called to come in unto the king these thirty days. 12 And they told to Mordecai Esther's words. 13 Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house, more than all the Jews. Esther 4:9-13

Esther continues the discourse with Hatach, who in turn goes to Mordecai with the words of the queen. Hatach is the “middle man” going back and forth with messages.

Esther tells Hatach that she cannot just “go before the king.” She needs to have a special invitation in which the king will hold out his golden scepter to those he wishes to speak to.  Esther has not been called in thirty days and I’m sure she is afraid to go before the king. She knows the rules and decrees and this one is very serious. Going before the king without a special invitation could be death on the spot.

Poor Hatach has to go before Mordecai again with word from Esther. She doesn’t know if she can go before the king, it may be her death. On hearing this, I get the impression that, Mordecai is annoyed, “Don’t think you are going to escape because you live in the king’s house the decree said “all Jews”.

I’m sure Esther was in a quandary of what to do, listen to her cousin, save her people, or save her own life. 

What was a girl to do? Join me the next time to find out. 

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: Trouble at the gate

So Esther's maids and her chamberlains came and told it her. Then was the queen exceedingly grieved; and she sent raiment to clothe Mordecai, and to take away his sackcloth from him: but he received it not. 5 Then called Esther for Hatach, one of the king's chamberlains, whom he had appointed to attend upon her, and gave him a commandment to Mordecai, to know what it was, and why it was. 6 So Hatach went forth to Mordecai unto the street of the city, which was before the king's gate. 7 And Mordecai told him of all that had happened unto him, and of the sum of the money that Haman had promised to pay to the king's treasuries for the Jews, to destroy them. 8 Also he gave him the copy of the writing of the decree that was given at Shushan to destroy them, to shew it unto Esther, and to declare it unto her, and to charge her that she should go in unto the king, to make supplication unto him, and to make request before him for her people.  Esther 4:4-8

This continues my lessons on Esther. To review previous lessons please start here.

Esther is in the palace, safely protected from the events of the outside world. Most of what happened in the towns and provinces were not reported to anyone but the king.  Esther did however have maids and chamberlains who traveled outside the walls of the palace to purchase items.  I’m sure they knew there was a relationship between Mordecai and Esther. They were perplexed by Mordecai’s appearance. Surely something must be wrong.

Esther received word that Mordecai was standing outside the wall wearing sackcloth. She doesn’t ask why but quickly sends him good clothing to wear. I’m sure he is troubled by this but immediately refuses.

After the refusal she now sends word through the chamberlain to find out what is going on. Mordecai quickly tells Hatach the whole story. He doesn’t end with telling but shows him the “royal decree” which says the Jews will be destroyed. He sends the message to Esther by way of Hatach to go before the king immediately and plead for her people.

Join me the next time to find out what happens.

Have a blessed day,
Donna