The way God is not mentioned in the book of Esther reminds me of something I once heard about Mt. Fuji in Japan. Historically, Japanese art was so dominated by Mt. Fuji that practically every landscape painting included it in the background. But when Mt. Fuji wasn't visible in the background - and this is the really cool part - it was because the artist was standing ON Mt. Fuji, looking outward! In other words, when you couldn't see it, it was closer than ever. I think Yahweh is like that in the book of Esther! 😊❤️👍
Interesting fact...The edict reversing the proclamation of death was on Sivan 23. The case of Jackson vs Dobbs, reversing Roe vs Wade and proclaiming life, was also proclaimed on Sivan 23 (June 22, 2022)! Life conquers death! Wow....There are no coincidences with God!!
I love how this story ends. Two scriptures come to mind. "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50: 20 ESV). Also, Isaiah 61: 3 says, "for those who grieve in Zion-to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor." Whew. WOW! The Lord is awesome and worthy of all praise 👏🏾 🙌🏽. His name doesn't have to be mentioned in order to know that He is real, He is good, and that He is in control of all circumstances. He's where the joy is!
There is so much in these chapters, but what most stood out to me was God's impeccable timing in chapters 6 & 7 - giving the King insomnia and causing him to order the reading of the record of his reign and remember Mordecai's good deed the night before Haman was going to ask to impale Mordecai. Then the honoring of Mordecai was ordered by the King for Haman to carry out in the manner Haman suggested when he arrogantly thought it was for him and Haman ended up being impaled on the very pole he set up for Mordecai's impaling- what poetic justice.
This is encouragement and hope ..to remember when we pray for our families and can't see what God is doing...Jesus said my Father is always at work..Praise God for His faithfulness, unfailing love and mercies..Amen
Amennnnnn! I thought about that too! I have two daughters who are in a prodigal season. My hubby and I pray for them everyday, not knowing what is going on with them, but trusting that God is working in their lives nonetheless, to bring them back to Him and to us. 🙏🏼🙏🏼
Just as in yesterday's reading, I see God's providence in today's reading also. The commentary in my Bible highlights His providence referencing Esther 6:4. It says, "Although there is no specific reference to God in this book, it tells a story about God's providence. The large number of coincidences that occur simply cannot be accidental." I always say there is no such thing as coincidence. The commentary also says, "God"..."was moving behind the scenes, bringing his will to pass. Reading Esther convinces the believers that all of life lies under God's plan and control."
Amen and Praise God ❤❤ Even when we don't see it or feel it the Lord is working ❤ Have a blessed day in His Presence bible Family He's where the Joy is 👍🏾🙌🏾❤️💯
God is always at work. There’s never a day without. Quite honestly what brought me here is I recently watched the movie called the Book of Esther, and although I’m a new believer in Jesus Christ I haven’t yet gotten to the book of Esther and wanted to experience first hand the accuracy of the story as well. Very compelling.
It is so interesting how the taking of plunder was a way of setting things right from King Saul's sin against God in taking plunder from Haman's people. Any time I see Purim on a calendar, I will think of this story.
Love to see that God working in so many ways in this chapter despite him not being mentioned, shows how interconnected God is with us. God bless y’all.
I also like how King Saul of the tribe of Benjamin failed to follow GOD’s plan and how here Queen Esther and Mordecai, also of the tribe of Benjamin, are the ones to redeem the Children of Israel.
I wonder if there had been a lot of blaming, at least subconsciously, of Saul for any harm they suffered at the hands of the Amalekites--a sort of inner grumbling, "That Amalekite descentant is really giving me grief! He shouldnt even exist! I have to put up with that guy and it's all Saul's fault!"? If so, God's way of using a young girl--someone of not much power--to help put into place the circumstances for a re-do of Saul's job of destroying the Amalekites without plundering might illustrate to the people that history, at least in the "short" term, can be changed for good or ill based on any individual's choice to obey God or not, and the subjects of a king do not get a pass for their disobedience to God because their king was disobedient. Ahasueras made an irrevokable mistake in his first order that the Jews be attacked, but he allowed his heart to be softened and submitted to God's direction (through Esther) of how to fix it because Esther was obedient to God's call. It's almost as if God is showing the people how they might have changed the story back when Saul messed up if they had turned themselves fully toward God back then! And maybe it is only the affliction that makes them ready to turn to him now, but God, the good Father, is taking advantage of a teachable moment (because aren't most children more ready to hear how they could have avoided disaster when they've just been rescued?) and showing them that it was never just one man's mistake that caused the trouble in Israel; but that each person must be as obedient and faithful as (s)he can lest (S)HE be the one to cause destruction. Which of course points to both our need for salvation, because perfect faith and obedience are impossible without Christ, and to the individual communion he gives us through the Holy Spirit to empower us to participate in whatever changes to history God wants us make.
Esther isn’t the hero. Mordecai isn’t the hero. GOD is the hero. Time reveals how God rescues. He did it for Esther and the Jews. He does it for you and me. He may appear to absent but He’s always at work and can be trusted. God’s timing is perfect. Hold onto that. His timing is perfect in all that concerns you. “On that night the king could not sleep. And he gave orders to bring the book of memorable deeds, the chronicles, and they were read before the king. And the king said, “What honor or distinction has been bestowed on Mordecai for this?” The king’s young men who attended him said, “Nothing has been done for him.”” Esther 6:1, 3 “Then Harbona, one of the eunuchs in attendance on the king, said, “Moreover, the gallows that Haman has prepared for Mordecai, whose word saved the king, is standing at Haman’s house, fifty cubits high.” And the king said, “Hang him on that.”” Esther 7:9 “And in every province and in every city, wherever the king’s command and his edict reached, there was gladness and joy among the Jews, a feast and a holiday. And many from the peoples of the country declared themselves Jews, for fear of the Jews had fallen on them.” Esther 8:17
Ok I have never heard of the triangle cookies being his ears, but his hat! I checked with Wikipedia, and it does say what Tara Leigh says. But it also says:” The reason for the three-sided shape is uncertain. There is a 20th-century legend that Haman wore a three-cornered hat.”
In the final chapter of Esther, there is still no mention of God or thanksgiving to Him for His miraculous deliverance of His people. Instead, Mordecai is lifted up. He is said to be second in rank to the king, great among the people, popular with the multitude, seeking the welfare of and speaking peace to "all his people." I wonder how that will play in the judgment for reward. God does not share His glory.
Once again, God uses even the morally bad king and his harem of really young virgins that he deflowered over years. Yep God used him and his evil cabinet to accomplish the means.
Aloha, praise the Lord, and good morning BR family. Number 3 in the devotional prayer: "Help me see something new about You that I've never seen before". Ester is the first book that I read where Yahweh name is not mention which is something new to me. Even though his name is not mention, trust and only believe that He is everywhere working behind the scene for the good of all people. Glory be to God for his everlasting love. He is where the JOY is!!!
The way God is not mentioned in the book of Esther reminds me of something I once heard about Mt. Fuji in Japan. Historically, Japanese art was so dominated by Mt. Fuji that practically every landscape painting included it in the background. But when Mt. Fuji wasn't visible in the background - and this is the really cool part - it was because the artist was standing ON Mt. Fuji, looking outward! In other words, when you couldn't see it, it was closer than ever. I think Yahweh is like that in the book of Esther! 😊❤️👍
Or when your thoughts are focused outward on God & helping others versus inwards
That is cool! Thanks for sharing!
wow! Thank you for sharing that! As a visual learner, you just helped bring this message to life and now I will never forget it! Thanks!
This episode really touched me! Just knowing how God is at work when he’s not even mentioned or obvious.
Interesting fact...The edict reversing the proclamation of death was on Sivan 23. The case of Jackson vs Dobbs, reversing Roe vs Wade and proclaiming life, was also proclaimed on Sivan 23 (June 22, 2022)! Life conquers death! Wow....There are no coincidences with God!!
How neat!
Yes and the edict fell to the Pur, the day before Passover, interesting… a death proclamation the day Jesus went to the cross years later ???
, nothing is a coincidence with God! He truly is Sovereign!
What?!?!? Wowwwww!
Oh wow, that's my birthday!
I love how this story ends. Two scriptures come to mind. "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50: 20 ESV). Also, Isaiah 61: 3 says, "for those who grieve in Zion-to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor." Whew. WOW! The Lord is awesome and worthy of all praise 👏🏾 🙌🏽. His name doesn't have to be mentioned in order to know that He is real, He is good, and that He is in control of all circumstances. He's where the joy is!
Amen!
Well said!
Wow! Those same verses came to my mind too!! Hallelujah!!!
Amen!
🎶Even when I don't see it You're working, and even when I don't feel it You're working. You never stop, You never stop working🎶
🎶He's the Waymaker, Miracle Worker, Promise Keeper. Light in the darkness, My God, that is who You are! 🎶
There is so much in these chapters, but what most stood out to me was God's impeccable timing in chapters 6 & 7 - giving the King insomnia and causing him to order the reading of the record of his reign and remember Mordecai's good deed the night before Haman was going to ask to impale Mordecai. Then the honoring of Mordecai was ordered by the King for Haman to carry out in the manner Haman suggested when he arrogantly thought it was for him and Haman ended up being impaled on the very pole he set up for Mordecai's impaling- what poetic justice.
God’s timing perfect always
Yes! I thought about how God orchestrated that whole chain of events too!! Wow!
God’s at work today too!! PTL🙌🏻🙌🏻
"Time will reveal how God is rescuing you in your current situation.." 🙌
🙏🙌🏻 Thank you Lord!
And maybe your part of someone else's story too
Even when we feel like God is absent, He is with us and He is working. Thank you God! You are our good shepherd.
✝️💪
This is encouragement and hope ..to remember when we pray for our families and can't see what God is doing...Jesus said my Father is always at work..Praise God for His faithfulness, unfailing love and mercies..Amen
Amennnnnn! I thought about that too! I have two daughters who are in a prodigal season. My hubby and I pray for them everyday, not knowing what is going on with them, but trusting that God is working in their lives nonetheless, to bring them back to Him and to us. 🙏🏼🙏🏼
Just as in yesterday's reading, I see God's providence in today's reading also. The commentary in my Bible highlights His providence referencing Esther 6:4. It says, "Although there is no specific reference to God in this book, it tells a story about God's providence. The large number of coincidences that occur simply cannot be accidental." I always say there is no such thing as coincidence. The commentary also says, "God"..."was moving behind the scenes, bringing his will to pass. Reading Esther convinces the believers that all of life lies under God's plan and control."
Such perfect timing only belongs to the Lord of heaven and earth… The Lord of heaven’s Army!!!❤
We are going to see Esther at the Sight and Sound Theater in Branson this week. This study is very timely
Saw it in May and it is incredible!!
God is ever present
The Festival of Purim is like a Pay-it-Forward Festival. In thanks for GOD saving them, they are to bless / give to others. 🎉🎁
Amen and Praise God ❤❤ Even when we don't see it or feel it the Lord is working ❤ Have a blessed day in His Presence bible Family He's where the Joy is 👍🏾🙌🏾❤️💯
God is always at work. There’s never a day without. Quite honestly what brought me here is I recently watched the movie called the Book of Esther, and although I’m a new believer in Jesus Christ I haven’t yet gotten to the book of Esther and wanted to experience first hand the accuracy of the story as well. Very compelling.
Paula, may God reveal Himself more each day as He draws you nearer to Him and His peace, joy, and presence!
It is so interesting how the taking of plunder was a way of setting things right from King Saul's sin against God in taking plunder from Haman's people. Any time I see Purim on a calendar, I will think of this story.
King Saul, Queen Esther & Mordecai all of the tribe of Benjamin. 🇮🇱
Yes and it repeats 3x no plunder was taken!
Whew this was such a timely word. God is rescuing me from my current situation! God is at work! I receive that in Jesus' Name! 10/5/24 5:32 AM
Let’s Praise the Lord together in our homes and churches ❤️🙌
Even though God’s name is not mentioned he is always at work in our lives he is so faithful and he is definitely where they joy is. Hallelujah 🙌🏽
Happy Sunday family ❤
Love to see that God working in so many ways in this chapter despite him not being mentioned, shows how interconnected God is with us. God bless y’all.
I also like how King Saul of the tribe of Benjamin failed to follow GOD’s plan and how here Queen Esther and Mordecai, also of the tribe of Benjamin, are the ones to redeem the Children of Israel.
Yesss! I never thought of that before!
"For such a time as this"😊
Thank you Team, hard when you’re traveling and life is flying by pray for family and health thank you.
Happy Sunday ❤
Hey Bible Readers!
No words 😶!❤❤❤❤
Good afternoon bible Family ❤❤❤ Thank God for His Love and tender mercy ❤❤❤ Have a blessed day in His Presence ❤️🙏🤗
my Bible version~NLT~says impaled on a pole😳 no matter, God is in charge and works in amazing ways!!!
Happy Sunday Bible readers! Love the book of Esther 🙏🏼✝️
Enjoyed and appreciated how the Lord is working in the background. Amen ✝️
I wonder if there had been a lot of blaming, at least subconsciously, of Saul for any harm they suffered at the hands of the Amalekites--a sort of inner grumbling, "That Amalekite descentant is really giving me grief! He shouldnt even exist! I have to put up with that guy and it's all Saul's fault!"? If so, God's way of using a young girl--someone of not much power--to help put into place the circumstances for a re-do of Saul's job of destroying the Amalekites without plundering might illustrate to the people that history, at least in the "short" term, can be changed for good or ill based on any individual's choice to obey God or not, and the subjects of a king do not get a pass for their disobedience to God because their king was disobedient. Ahasueras made an irrevokable mistake in his first order that the Jews be attacked, but he allowed his heart to be softened and submitted to God's direction (through Esther) of how to fix it because Esther was obedient to God's call. It's almost as if God is showing the people how they might have changed the story back when Saul messed up if they had turned themselves fully toward God back then! And maybe it is only the affliction that makes them ready to turn to him now, but God, the good Father, is taking advantage of a teachable moment (because aren't most children more ready to hear how they could have avoided disaster when they've just been rescued?) and showing them that it was never just one man's mistake that caused the trouble in Israel; but that each person must be as obedient and faithful as (s)he can lest (S)HE be the one to cause destruction. Which of course points to both our need for salvation, because perfect faith and obedience are impossible without Christ, and to the individual communion he gives us through the Holy Spirit to empower us to participate in whatever changes to history God wants us make.
Amen. Thank You Father: You are at work in my Life. Amen 🙌
Amen!! Thank you Father 🙏❤️🙏
Fantastic book.
Preach TLC! Well done recap today!! 🙌
Divine oversight! 😊🙌🏾
Amen Tara-Leigh Cobble!
GOD is amazing, GOD is good all the time! Thank You JESUS!
I loved this book of Esther. wow...
Loved the recap today Tera
Right: forgot what Saul had done; thank you for this reminder.❤
Esther isn’t the hero.
Mordecai isn’t the hero.
GOD is the hero.
Time reveals how God rescues.
He did it for Esther and the Jews.
He does it for you and me.
He may appear to absent but He’s always at work and can be trusted.
God’s timing is perfect. Hold onto that. His timing is perfect in all that concerns you.
“On that night the king could not sleep. And he gave orders to bring the book of memorable deeds, the chronicles, and they were read before the king. And the king said, “What honor or distinction has been bestowed on Mordecai for this?” The king’s young men who attended him said, “Nothing has been done for him.””
Esther 6:1, 3
“Then Harbona, one of the eunuchs in attendance on the king, said, “Moreover, the gallows that Haman has prepared for Mordecai, whose word saved the king, is standing at Haman’s house, fifty cubits high.” And the king said, “Hang him on that.””
Esther 7:9
“And in every province and in every city, wherever the king’s command and his edict reached, there was gladness and joy among the Jews, a feast and a holiday. And many from the peoples of the country declared themselves Jews, for fear of the Jews had fallen on them.”
Esther 8:17
😭
Hey Bible Readers!
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Ok I have never heard of the triangle cookies being his ears, but his hat! I checked with Wikipedia, and it does say what Tara Leigh says. But it also says:” The reason for the three-sided shape is uncertain. There is a 20th-century legend that Haman wore a three-cornered hat.”
In the final chapter of Esther, there is still no mention of God or thanksgiving to Him for His miraculous deliverance of His people. Instead, Mordecai is lifted up. He is said to be second in rank to the king, great among the people, popular with the multitude, seeking the welfare of and speaking peace to "all his people." I wonder how that will play in the judgment for reward. God does not share His glory.
💜
Once again, God uses even the morally bad king and his harem of really young virgins that he deflowered over years. Yep God used him and his evil cabinet to accomplish the means.
Aloha, praise the Lord, and good morning BR family. Number 3 in the devotional prayer: "Help me see something new about You that I've never seen before". Ester is the first book that I read where Yahweh name is not mention which is something new to me. Even though his name is not mention, trust and only believe that He is everywhere working behind the scene for the good of all people. Glory be to God for his everlasting love. He is where the JOY is!!!