Bible Chapter: Esther 7 & 8

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    The second royal banquet was held and the king and Haman attended.  Haman was very proud of his invitation and though he was extremely important.  The king against asked Queen Esther what she wanted.  She pleaded her case for her people.  She said that someone was out to kill them all.  This outraged the king and he asked who would do that.  Esther said it was wicked Haman.  At this Haman panicked as the king, in his anger, left the room.  Then Haman fell across the couch were Esther was to plead for his life. As the king returned he thought Haman was trying to assault her.  King Ahasuerus was reminded of the gallows that Haman had constructed for Mordecai.  The king order Haman to be hung.
    Then Queen Esther brought one more request to the king.  The order Haman had sent out to kill all the Jews had to be rescinded.  Ahasuerus gave Mordecai his ring and the position that Haman had occupied and authorized him to send the letters to spare the lives of all the Jews. The Jews were authorized to defend themselves against the plotting of their enemies.  The letters were sent and the people spared.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    As this story unfolds we see God’s plan to save His people.  As Esther and Mordecai were willing to risk everything to seek the deliverance of their people, God opened every door necessary.  The didn’t have to manipulate anything.  It is often tempting to think that we have to manipulate circumstances to accomplish our goals. The is not true.  As we are following God’s plan, He will direct and provide.  This is a good lesson to learn and apply in life.

3.  How can I help someone?
    I see this over and over again in the Bible.  Learn to trust in the Lord and don’t try to figure it out yourself.  What a valuable lesson to learn.  Eternity will reveal how often God intervened in the affairs of life and took care of things.  The Bible is filled with exciting stories of how God empowered people and placed them in positions to work God’s plan.