That They May be Destroyed Esther 3:9 - Equipped for Battle

Haman stood before King Ahasuerus to complain about a people within the empire who were not keeping the king's law. Haman was motivated by the refusal of Mordecai to bow to him, and because he was a Jew, Haman desired that all of Modecai's people pay a price for his insubordination. In chapter three and verse nine we discover more of Haman's plan. We read:

If it please the king, let it be written that they may be destroyed: and I will pay ten thousand talents of silver to the hands of those that have the charge of the business, to bring it into the king's treasuries.

The verse begins, “If it please the king, let it be written that they may be destroyed:” We notice first that at least Haman knew the art of entreating. He said, “If it please...” rather than simply telling the king what to do. Because the Persian Empire came into existence by eliminating foes, Haman more than likely knew that just another group of people, particularly a rebellious one, would be of no particular preference for King Ahasuerus. Because Haman painted the Jews as opponents to the king, the desire to have them destroyed should be easily obtained. He did however insure that this command be written. As we stated before, the kings of Persia had power, but the written law superseded their power once a law was written.

The verse goes on to say, “and I will pay ten thousand talents of silver to the hands of those that have the charge of the business, to bring it into the king's treasuries.” Haman knew that by eliminating such a large group of people would have an economic impact upon the kingdom. Some of the Jews were workers, others were servants, and many paid tribute. Most of them contributed to the empire, and the loss of them would mean financial loss as well. Haman declared that he would pay for the loss, give it to those in charge of business, and bring it into the king's treasuries. Can we even imagine such a hatred for Mordecai? Those who have unbridled anger and wrath often become a victim of the very revenge they desire to inflict. Haman's wrath certainly had him consumed.

What is it that we are so angry about that we would pay such a price as Haman to remove? Is there anyone as angry at us because of our allegiance to God like Mordecai? Do we live our lives in such a manner that the enemy of our soul, Satan, would desire to destroy us if he could? As with Haman, people may not like what we have to say or enjoy our behavior in our worship of Jesus Christ, but are we willing to bear the cross of our Savior Jesus even when others are contrary to our worship? What price are we willing to pay that we might find ourselves as children of the living God?

Next time we will hear more about Haman's desire before King Ahasuerus that the Jews be destroyed, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Haman's Complaint Before Ahasuerus Esther 3:8 - Equipped for Battle

Haman was promoted by King Ahasuerus and people within the kingdom were commanded to honor him because of his position. However, Mordecai, who was Esther's older cousin and responsible for raising her, would not bow to Haman. Mordecai would worship no one other than God, and regardless of the consequences, Mordecai would not bow to Haman. This behavior infuriated Haman, and because Mordecai would not submit, Haman vowed not only to destroy Mordecai, but also his people the Jews. In chapter three and verse eight we see Haman going before the king with his complaint. We read:

And Haman said unto king Ahasuerus, There is a certain people scattered abroad and dispersed among the people in all the provinces of thy kingdom; and their laws are diverse from all people; neither keep they the king's laws: therefore it is not for the king's profit to suffer them.

The verse begins, “And Haman said unto king Ahasuerus, There is a certain people scattered abroad and dispersed among the people in all the provinces of thy kingdom;” At this point the wrath of Haman is being demonstrated before King Ahasuerus. Rather than simply stew over his anger, Haman employs action, and the first place he must go is before the kingdom authority who may give a command to remove the rebellion. Notice too that Haman told the king that these people were “scattered abroad and dispersed” not only in the locale of the king, but “among the people in all the provinces”. Haman desired to make his ploy empire wide.

The verse goes on to say, “and their laws are diverse from all people; neither keep they the king's laws:” Haman's first desire was to show the widespread nature of these people, and now he reports why these far-reaching people are a threat to the king. First he addresses the nature of the people's law, they are “diverse” from all people. Secondly, he accuses the Jews that they “neither keep ...the king's laws:”. Let us take note of how one man, Mordecai, led to all these words from Haman before the king.

Finally, our verse concludes, “therefore it is not for the king's profit to suffer them.” In other words, these people are such a threat to the king's authority, that King Ahasuerus should “suffer them” or allow them to rest. Haman basically said since this rebellion was occurring throughout the kingdom, the king should not agree with them, let them rest, or even let them be. If we try, we might be able to imagine how animatedly Haman told this story.

Haman is like Satan before the throne of God. He is constantly complaining about those who love the Lord and worship Him alone. We read in the book of Revelation in chapter twelve and verse ten:

And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

If like the Jews in Mordecai's day we are accused of worshiping God rather than man, so be it. We will not regret it eternally, but the question of the day may be, “Do we worship God in such a manner that Satan would complain about us at all?” It is certain according to this scripture that “the accuser of our brethren is cast down”, but if we were examined, do we have ample displays of affection toward God of which he might accuse us? Let it be our resolve to live in such a manner that he would desire to eliminate us because we are worshipers of the Almighty God and His Son Jesus Christ.

Next time we will hear more about Haman's desire before King Ahasuerus that the Jews be destroyed, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Pur Esther 3:7 - Equipped for Battle

Haman has purposed in his heart to destroy Mordecai and his people the Jews because Mordecai will not obey the king's commandment to bow before him. Not only does Haman desire that Mordecai and his relatives be exterminated, but he has begun a plan for carrying out his wishes. In chapter three and verse seven we discover more about Haman's diabolical ploy. We read:

In the first month, that is, the month Nisan, in the twelfth year of king Ahasuerus, they cast Pur, that is, the lot, before Haman from day to day, and from month to month, to the twelfth month, that is, the month Adar.

Our verse begins, “In the first month, that is, the month Nisan, in the twelfth year of king Ahasuerus,...” The timing of this event is given to us clearly in this portion of the verse – in the first month, “Nisan” which means “their flight”...in the twelfth year of king Ahasuerus.” We may remember that King Ahasuerus held feasts for those in his provinces and in his palace during the third year of his reign where he banished Queen Vashti from his throne, held a beauty contest in the sixth year of his reign, and named Esther as his new Queen in the tenth month of the seventh year of his reign. Now we skip ahead fifteen months or so and Haman is plotting in the month of “Nisan” which corresponds to our March – April.

The verse continues, “they cast Pur, that is, the lot, before Haman from day to day, and from month to month, to the twelfth month, that is, the month Adar.” The idea behind the casting of lots was to mystically determine the best time to eliminate the Jews. Astrology was used to determine the perfect time to carry out such an extrication, and by casting “Pur” or lots they tested each day and month of the twelfth year of King Ahasuerus' reign. The month of “Adar” means “glorious”, so from “their flight” to “glorious” Haman tested the days.

We may notice that from “their flight” depicting the time when Israel fled from Egypt until “glorious” this plan of Haman was tested for timing. He certainly did not take into account that the Jewish people were protected and overseen by God Almighty during his plan. The very months he chose to determine their demise was enough information, but sometimes the most obvious reasons are overlooked. Regardless of whether he considered such things or not, we do note his determination as he is driven to have his revenge upon Mordecai. Like Satan himself who desires to destroy all people who align with Jesus Christ, Haman becomes a prime example of how one so opposed to the people of God will use whatever means possible to eliminate them. Cast “pur” as you will oh enemy of God, and watch as your mystical methods foil beneath the mighty hand of the Creator.

Next time we will see Haman speaking to the king about the Jews, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Haman's Desire against the Jews Esther 3:6 - Equipped for Battle

The command has been given by King Ahasuerus that all who see Haman must bow before him and give him reverence. Mordecai, however, will not bow in worship to anyone other than God Almighty, and his insubordination has been seen and heard by Haman. In chapter three and verse six we see the extent of the wrath of Haman as he not only desires for Mordecai to be killed but also all of the Jews. We read:

And he thought scorn to lay hands on Mordecai alone; for they had showed him the people of Mordecai: wherefore Haman sought to destroy all the Jews that were throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus, even the people of Mordecai.

Our verse begins, “And he thought scorn to lay hands on Mordecai alone; for they had showed him the people of Mordecai:” We learned of Haman's wrath in our last verse, and now we see how he manifested it. Haman “thought scorn” or despised, held in contempt and disdained the idea of destroying just Mordecai alone. No, his fury was so full he desired more. Individual revenge would not satisfy his demonic anger. He wanted to destroy anyone who was related to or like unto Mordecai.

The verse goes on to say, “wherefore Haman sought to destroy all the Jews that were throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus, even the people of Mordecai.” The way Haman looked at it was that if this one man is like this because of his beliefs, then everyone within his ethnicity was like this too. His prejudice led to discrimination, and discrimination led him to desire elimination. Haman wanted “all the Jews” to be destroyed, and not just locally, but throughout the entire kingdom of Ahasuerus.

Although he may not have realized it at the time, (he certainly does now), Haman was an agent for Satan himself. The desire of Satan has been to wipe out God's people ever since the promise of the Messiah was given to them. Jesus was destined by God to be the Savior of the world, and any preemptive strike that Satan might make upon the Jewish people would prevent His appearance. Over and over again throughout history there have been those who desired to destroy God's chosen people Israel. As we continue this story in the weeks ahead, let it be a reminder that what God has purposed no man shall destroy. Even though Haman may have been in an exalted position, his power was extremely limited when compared to the Almighty God. Are there areas in our lives that we need to be assured that God is protecting us as He did the Jews? If so, let us run beneath His mighty and protective wing.

Next time we will learn about Pur, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Haman's Wrath Esther 3:5 - Equipped for Battle

Mordecai has refused to obey the command given by King Ahasuerus to bow and give honor to Haman the Agagite whom he has promoted. Even though Haman's peers have tried to persuade him, Mordecai will not bow. Because Mordecai is a Jew, he will honor none other than God Himself, and no matter the consequences, he will only give homage to Him. In chapter three and verse five we see the reaction of Haman once he is told about Mordecai heritage and insubordination. We read:

And when Haman saw that Mordecai bowed not, nor did him reverence, then was Haman full of wrath.

Let's notice first, “And when Haman saw that Mordecai bowed not nor did him reverence,...” After he was informed about Mordecai, Haman noticed his refusal to bow with his own eyes - “Haman saw”. It is as if he really wasn't paying any particular attention to Mordecai at first, but now that he has been informed about him, he is looking for Mordecai's rebellion. He “saw” that he wasn't bowing, and he “saw” that he was not giving him reverence which means “to prostrate oneself in worship” that he believed himself worthy. We can only imagine the alteration in Haman's visage as he observed Mordecai's behavior.

Our verse continues, “then was Haman full of wrath.” Haman was filled with “heat, rage, hot displeasure, indignation, anger, wrath, or poison” when he saw Mordecai's lack of worship toward him. Generally anger occurs when a person does not get his or her way, and the result of that anger is a manifestation of behavior that demonstrates the anger within. Not only did Haman's countenance change, but his entire behavior was overcome by the lack of worship from Mordecai.

As we try to imagine this scene, let us keep in mind that there is a Sovereign God continuing to work His plan through all these events. Though each one of them may seem insignificant upon their own, there is a Divine weaving occurring in every moment. It was necessary for Haman be promoted, and it was necessary for King Ahasuerus to command everyone to worship him. It also was important for Mordecai to make his stand and not bow before Haman, and even the anger of Haman will be used as our story continues. As we consider these things, how many events in our lives whether they concern edicts, commands, reactions or emotions is the Almighty using in our lives to keep us in relationship and fellowship with Him? We may never know all the wonderful nuances and ways that unbeknown to us are being fashioned into our personal story and God's Divine tapestry.

Next time we will see Haman's decision to destroy all the Jews, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Mordecai the Jew Esther 3:4 - Equipped for Battle

The plot to our story of Esther thickens as we have now drawn our attention to Esther's older cousin and childhood caregiver Mordecai. King Ahasuerus has promoted an Agagite named Haman, and he has commanded that everyone bow to Haman and give him homage. Mordecai will not bow, and although Mordecai is bombarded by peer pressure to comply, his obedience to God is more important than his compliance with a blasphemous law of man. In chapter three and verse four we see more of our story where we read:

Now it came to pass, when they spake daily unto him, and he hearkened not unto them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai's matters would stand: for he had told them that he was a Jew.

Our verse begins, “Now it came to pass, when they spake daily unto him, and he hearkened not unto them,...” It is one thing to refuse to comply with outside pressure one time, but notice Mordecai's stand – it was “daily”. Every day the same event would occur. Let's picture it in our minds. Haman would arrive possibly with his entourage. All of the servants at the gate of the king would immediately bow before him as Haman pompously rode possibly on a horse or walked very proudly among them. His chin might have been held high and his nose lifted into the air as he felt himself much better than these lowly subjects that were before him. (We have all seen this type of behavior before.) Then, suddenly, out of the corner of his eye, there is old Mordecai. He's standing and not giving any homage. The others would say possibly in a concerned and stern whisper, “Mordecai, you better bow. You are going to be in trouble, and you might get all of us in trouble. Bow! Mordecai! Bow!” However, Mordecai would not bow nor would he give Haman any honor.

The verse goes on to say, “that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai's matters would stand: for he had told them that he was a Jew.” After many attempts, those who were attempting to get Mordecai to comply decided to tell Haman about him. Notice, “to see whether Mordecai's matters would stand”. In other words they believed that Mordecai's behavior could be altered if they told on him. Rather than have their own necks on the line for Mordecai's insubordination, they “threw him under the bus” so to speak. Then they separated themselves from him by noting “he was a Jew.” Now it may seem at first glance that under these circumstances it was a unfavorable thing if a person was a “Jew”, but as we think about it for a moment, this title and heritage meant that a Jew was not going to bow to anyone other than God Himself, and in the eternal perspective that is a wonderful title and heritage to have. Mordecai was a Jew, and being a Jew meant he would not bow to Haman or any other man just because the king said he should do so.

As we think about this “daily stand” of Mordecai, what is it that we would “daily stand” for if we were put to the test? As young people we were often posed with this question, “If they were to put a guillotine out in the parking lot, and one by one have each of us put our heads in the slot and be asked the question, “Do you believe Jesus is the Savior of the world?” If we said “yes” the blade would fall and we would lose our heads, but if we said “no” we would go free. What would we do? Basically Mordecai is making this kind of stand. No matter what happens to him, he will not bow to Haman, and no amount of peer pressure, convincing words, threatening edicts or otherwise will alter his stand. Would to God that we would all have that type of resolve when standing on our faith in Jesus.

Next time we will see Haman's reaction to Mordecai's refusal to bow, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Why Transgress Mordecai? Esther 3:3 - Equipped for Battle

King Ahasuerus has promoted Haman the Agagite to a new position that is elevated above many of his princes. Because of this great honor, the king has commanded that all bow to Haman and be subject to him. However, there is one in the kingdom who will not bow no matter what the king has ordered – Mordecai. Because of his unwillingness to conform to the edict, in chapter three and verse three the king's servants have a question for him. We read:

Then the king's servants, which were in the king's gate, said unto Mordecai, Why do you transgress the king's commandment?

Our verse begins, “Then the king's servants, which were in the king's gate, said unto Mordecai,...” We may note by this portion of the scripture that Mordecai did not sit at the king's gate alone. There were others with him, and these were also servants to the king. This becomes an interesting fact as we learn about the peer pressure to conform that must have been toward Mordecai.

The verse continues, “Why do you transgress the king's commandment?” The idea behind the word “transgress” is “to pass over, cross, cross over, pass over, march over, or go over” as though ignoring. In other words, Mordecai acted as though the law was not ever established. He had such a disregard for the law of the king to bow before Haman that it was as if it was not even there. The other servants with an accusing tone and more of a statement-question asked him why he would not obey the king. The implication is that he should obey the king, but nonetheless their influence fell on deaf ears.

In chapter five of the book of the Acts of the Apostles in verses twenty-seven through twenty-nine we read of a similar law of man that was contrary to God's law. We read:

And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them, Saying, Did not we straitly command you that you should not teach in this name? and, behold, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us. Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

There is a time when submission to the law of God is greater than the law of man. For Peter and the apostles, the presentation of the gospel was a higher law than man's law to stop speaking in Jesus' name. For Mordecai the law of God which said “you have no other gods before Me” meant giving homage to any man would be a violation of that law. Mordecai stood firm, and even though he was being cajoled to conform, Mordecai was faithful to God.

Are there areas within the law of man that we know violate the law of God? Do we stand firm against them as Mordecai or do we conform to the outside influences? Second Timothy chapter three and verse thirteen says, “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived” which means there may be more and more opportunity to stand resolved to keep the law of God rather than the laws of man. As those days come, may we all be prepared to stand firm and make others wonder why we transgress the law like the apostles and Mordecai.

Next time we will watch as Mordecai continues his position and reveals that he is a Jew, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Mordecai's Refusal to Bow Esther 3:2 - Equipped for Battle

As we began this chapter we noted that King Ahasuerus promoted Haman the Agagite and set his seat above all the princes who were with him. In chapter three and verse two we see that this honor came with a specific directive from the king which Mordecai would not obey. We read:

And all the king's servants, that were in the king's gate, bowed, and reverenced Haman: for the king had so commanded concerning him. But Mordecai bowed not, nor did him reverence.

The verse begins, “And all the king's servants, that were in the king's gate, bowed, and reverenced Haman: for the king had so commanded concerning him.” Honor and promotion usually comes with respect, however in this case the idea was to bow down and prostrate oneself in homage and worship like as unto a god. All of the king's other servants seemed to have no problem doing this because the king “commanded” or charged the servants to do so, but we shall see that this was not the case with Mordecai.

The verse continues, “But Mordecai bowed not, nor did him reverence.” Mordecai refused to bow down to Haman, and he would not worship him as the king commanded. This must have been quite the display as all of the other servants were bowing to Haman and Mordecai would not do so. If we use our imaginations just a little we might see Haman approaching the area where all the servants of the king were gathered at the king's gate. All of the servants bow as he enters their presence, but Mordecai continues to stand. Let's just say that Mordecai stood out in the crowd. All were bowing except him, and all were giving Haman worship and honor, but Mordecai would not do so.

Now upon first glance we might think that Mordecai was a rebellious foe to Haman, and there wasn't anything that really prevented him from bowing like the others. However, we should consider that Haman had Godly, moral fiber that would not allow him to worship any other God than God Himself. The fact that the command came from King Ahasuerus made no difference to Mordecai. Mordecai was dedicated to God, and God Almighty would be the only one Mordecai would worship. Peer pressure, king pressure, and no other pressure would move Mordecai from his position. No matter what the consequences, Mordecai would not bow to Haman.

If we were in Mordecai's position, would we bow? Would we reverence people or laws that were promoted just because they were given positions by the governing authorities? What if those rules went directly against the law of God? Would we bow, give in, give worship and honor to that which is against God? It is quite easy to imagine Mordecai standing while others were bowing, however, where we will stand no matter what the consequences when it opposes God and His way of doing things? May our time of meditation upon these things lead us to bow before God Almighty and his ways alone, and may He bless us for doing so.

Next time we will see Mordecai questioned for his refusal, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Haman Esther 3:1 - Equipped for Battle

As a review to our story, we have met King Ahasuerus who held a wonderful one hundred and eighty day feast for the princes and servants of his one hundred and twenty-seven provinces of Persia. At the conclusion of that feast he held another seven day feast for those who were within the Palace of Sushan where he beckoned Queen Vashti to make an appearance with the royal crown. She refused his request and was banished from the throne at the advice of King Ahasuerus' seven chamberlains, and a new queen was sought throughout the kingdom. After one year of preparation, Esther was chosen to be queen, and her older cousin and childhood caregiver Mordecai continued to advise Esther concerning a secret she kept concerning her heritage. Mordecai exposed a plot of assassination against King Ahasuerus, and the two conspirators were hung because of their treason. In chapter three we are introduced to another key character within our story. We read in verse one:

After these things did king Ahasuerus promote Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, and advanced him, and set his seat above all the princes that were with him.

We read first, “After these things did king Ahasuerus promote Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, and advanced him,” From time to time there are promotions given within a kingdom, and we are told of this one. King Ahasuerus promoted “Haman” which means “magnificent” to a greater position of authority within the kingdom. We are told he was born to “Hammedatha” which means “double”, and Hammedatha was an “Agagite”. This becomes an interesting part to our story.

In the book of First Samuel chapter fifteen, King Saul of Israel was told by Samuel to destroy all of the Amalekites. King Agag was an Amalekite, and rather than destroy him as Samuel instructed, King Saul preserved him instead. Now six hundred years later Haman the “Agagite” arrives, is placed in King Ahasuerus' kingdom and “advanced”.

Our verse continues, “and set his seat above all the princes that were with him.” We see the particulars of the promotion Haman received. He was now above “all the princes that were with him.” Like a commander or governor over certain troops, now even the princes around Haman were to be subject to him. Let us keep in mind this phrase, “power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely” as we read the verses to come.

The Amalekites were a type of the flesh in the Bible. It may have seemed harsh at first glance for God to instruct King Saul to destroy all of them, but now that we see the results of King Saul's disobedience six hundred years later we should see the wisdom in the command. As we continue to discover more about Haman in the verses ahead, let us keep in mind the importance of removing all fleshly works from our lives that are contrary to God. If any small amount of sinful flesh is left, we may all have our “Hamans” showing up in places we would rather not.

Next time we will see how Mordecai reacts to Haman, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

The Conspirators Hung Esther 2:23 - Equipped for Battle

A conspiracy had begun in the kingdom of King Ahasuerus. Bigthan and Teresh were wrathfully planning to assassinate the king. Without them knowing, Mordecai heard of their plan and revealed it to Queen Esther his younger cousin. In chapter two and verse twenty-three we discover the results of that unveiling where we read:

And when inquisition was made of the matter, it was found out; therefore they were both hanged on a tree: and it was written in the book of the chronicles before the king.

The verse begins, “And when inquisition was made of the matter, it was found out;” There is an old saying that applies to this situation, “Trust, but verify”. We may imagine that Esther immediately took the word of her cousin Mordecai and told the king or his main chamberlains about the plan. It was shortly thereafter that the questions and investigations began to take place. Once an inquisition occurred, those who were investigating found the accusations to be true. We can only imagine the emotional reaction to this discovery.

Our verse continues, “therefore they were both hanged on a tree:” Treason was unacceptable, and judgment against it was quick. As soon as the verification of the plot was accomplished, Bigthan and Teresh were hung on a tree. There was no appeals court, death row, or second chance. They were both immediately executed. What is interesting, and it plays into a later part of our story, is the next phrase, “and it was written in the book of the chronicles before the king.” Evidently when people were executed there was a recording of the incident and why it came to be. This book of “chronicles” or times became the manuscript of judgments within the kingdom.

We are told in the book of Revelation that there are books being kept with all the records of every action of mankind. Have we ever stopped to wonder what all those books have within them? Would there be pending judgment for us should any certain plot or sin against the King of Kings be revealed? It is quite one thing to look at the lives of Bigthan and Teresh and believe they deserved their judgment and quite another to examine our own lives. For we who have received Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, each plot, each misgiving, each treasonous act and sin have been forgiven, forgotten and blotted out of God's Holy Books, however for those who have not received Jesus as their Lord and Savior, they will only have the recordings as their defense. Doesn't it seem so much wiser to go in advance to the one who holds judgment against any conspiracy within His hand? May we bow to receive mercy and grace from Him well before the tree of retribution is established for our eternity.

Next time we will begin a new chapter and be introduced to yet another character, Haman, who has an important role in this story, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Mordecai Exposes the Conspiracy Esther 2:22 - Equipped for Battle

We left our story with Bigthan and Teresh who were two of King Ahasuerus' chamberlains and keepers of the door plotting to lay hands on him. Although they believed their wrath-filled plan against the king was a secret, what they didn't know is that Mordecai just happened to be at the king's gate when they revealed their conspiracy. In chapter two and verse twenty two we see what Mordecai did with his new found knowledge. We read:

And the thing was known to Mordecai, who told it unto Esther the queen; and Esther certified the king thereof in Mordecai's name.

The verse begins, “And the thing was known to Mordecai, who told it unto Esther the queen;” This becomes a very interesting part of the story as it appears that Mordecai continued to have access to Esther even though she was selected as queen. As he contacted her through whatever means they had, Mordecai told Esther what he overheard Bigthan and Teresh planning. Although Mordecai may not have had access to King Ahasuerus, he knew that a plot against the king was also indirectly a plot against the queen as well.

Our verse continues, “and Esther certified the king thereof in Mordecai's name.” In other words, Esther revealed the plot to King Ahasuerus and gave Mordecai the credit for exposing the treason. We might be able to imagine as Queen Esther approached her husband the king with this vicious information, and since she knew the king had power to make a decision about this plot, there was not a better place to expose it. We can be assured that not only was the king grateful for the information, but he was sure to take quick action to prevent his undermining.

This event will have even more significance in our story as we continue our study, but for now let us once again consider the awesome plan of God that is underway. Mordecai just happened to be in the right spot to hear about this assassination machination, and his closeness to his cousin Queen Esther helped to expose the whole plan. At this point the king was preserved, and later this will preserve not only Mordecai but also Queen Esther as well. As we continue to discover the intricate weaving of God's plan in the book of Esther we may just want to stop and shout, “What a mighty and all-knowing God we serve!”

Next time we see the result of Mordecai's exposure, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Conspiracy Esther 2:21 - Equipped for Battle

Esther has become the new queen of Persia, and after all the preparations and beauty treatments, the selection for the new queen has been completed. Then, life returns to normal in the kingdom, and day to day activities occur. However, we learn of a new part of this story in chapter two and verse twenty one, and we will see how Almighty God uses these events in His divine plan. We read:

In those days, while Mordecai sat in the king's gate, two of the king's chamberlains, Bigthan and Teresh, of those which kept the door, were wroth, and sought to lay hand on the king Ahasuerus.

We left our story with Mordecai sitting outside of the king's gate where he was certain to see those who entered and exited the palace. Our verse begins, “In those days, while Mordecai sat in the king's gate, two of the king's chamberlains, Bigthan and Teresh, of those which kept the door,...” As Mordecai watched these two chamberlains “Bigthan” which means “in the wine press” and “Teresh” which means “strictness” who “kept the door” made their appearance before Mordecai. More than likely Mordecai listened to the conversations of those who were coming and going, and it is certain that he heard these two men.

Our verse goes on to say, “...were wroth, and sought to lay hand on the king Ahasuerus.” It seems that these two chamberlains were not happy with him. We are not sure what made them displeased, but they certainly were angry at him, and their anger was so vehement they began a plot of conspiracy to “lay hand” on him which means to kill him. Assignation was the plot, but they didn't know that Mordecai and more importantly God Almighty was there to spoil their plans.

The anger of the chamberlains should remind us that the reason for anger at it's basic root is simply “not getting our way.” As long as everything occurs just the way we like it, when we like it, where we like it, and how we like it, we are happy, but the moment any of those go awry, we may get angry. Hopefully our reaction is not as dramatic as Bithan and Teresh, but plotting is certainly not beneath us. The interesting thing about this part of the story is that God is also using this conspiracy to weave within His tapestry of salvation. Even the anger and wrath of two chamberlains will be used by God to preserve and execute His plan. Since this is so, could it be that situations in our lives that seem like conspiracies actually align quite nicely when the entire scene is completed? Only God Almighty knows all of His doings, and His doings have our best interest in mind.

Next time we see Mordecai expose the conspiracy, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Esther's Secret and Obedience Esther 2:20 - Equipped for Battle

King Ahasuerus was throwing yet another feast in his kingdom because he was celebrating his selection of a new queen – Esther. While the partying went on, Esther's cousin Mordecai sat outside of the king's gate and continued to wonder how she was managing. In chapter two and verse twenty, we gain a little more insight into Esther's selective nondisclosure and obedience to her older cousin Mordecai. We read:

Esther had not yet showed her kindred nor her people; as Mordecai had charged her: for Esther did the commandment of Mordecai, like as when she was brought up with him.

An old sage once said, “Not everything is as it seems”, and such is the case in the first part of our verse - “Esther had not yet showed her kindred nor her people; as Mordecai had charged her:”. Although Esther was now officially the queen of Persia, she did not use her power or position to reveal her cultural background or her family. She may have seen how easily it was for a queen to be put out of the kingdom like Vashti, but more than likely it was simply because she obeyed her older cousin Mordecai. Mordecai “charged” her not to tell anyone about her background, and since he raised her from the time of the death of her parents, he knew what was best for her.

Our verse continues “for Esther did the commandment of Mordecai, like as when she was brought up with him.” If we allow ourselves to imagine Esther with the loss of her parents and Mordecai adopting her, we will understand how Mordecai had repeatedly instructed Esther over the years. In order for instruction to be effective obedience is required by the one being instructed. If there is no obedience, instruction falls short. “Esther did the commandment of Mordecai”, and this made his guidance valuable in her life. It is one thing to be a hearer of the word and quite another to be a doer of it. Esther simply complied with Mordecai as she did while she was growing up, and the result was that no one knew her upbringing.

As we ponder this verse today, perhaps we have some areas of “selective nondisclosure” within our lives. Not everything is as it seems with us as it was with Esther. Perhaps there are those within our lives who have given us instructions about certain discretions and only God in heaven knows about them otherwise. We can remember that all the while the events are occurring within Esther and Mordecai's lives, God has a plan, and even the secret has it's purpose. We shall discover this purpose in our later readings, but for now, let us think about the “selective nondisclosures” that our Heavenly Father has kept within His own mind which will only be revealed as He fulfills His will in our lives.

Next time we will learn about a conspiracy against King Ahasuerus, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Mordecai at the King's Gate Esther 2:19 - Equipped for Battle

Esther has been named the new queen of Persia, and a feast is being held in her name. While she is being honored, her older cousin Mordecai is still in the background monitoring what happens in her life. In chapter two and verse nineteen the fair young maidens are beckoned again, and we discover where Mordecai is located in the picture. We read:

And when the virgins were gathered together the second time, then Mordecai sat in the king's gate.

Our verse begins, “And when the virgins were gathered together the second time,...” It is interesting to note that these fair young maidens were gathered a second time. As if they were to celebrate the coronation of Esther like beauty contest contestants after the winner's crowning, these young ladies were brought together in the palace. We are not completely sure why this event occurred, but nonetheless it did.

The verse continues, “then Mordecai sat in the king's gate.” We may recall that back in verse ten of this chapter we were told that Mordecai instructed Esther not to reveal her nationality nor her family heritage, and in verse eleven we saw him walking in the court of women every day to see how Esther was doing. Now in this verse we see that Mordecai is sitting outside the king's gate. The festivities are inside, but Mordecai is not. The celebration and coronation for Esther are within the palace, and Mordecai is only at the king's gate.

Can we imagine Mordecai's thoughts at this time as he watches Esther being celebrated even though she was someone he has cared for deeply in the lowest parts of her life? Can we even begin to wonder as he did whether her nationality or family background would be exposed? We might even think about whether Esther would forget him because of her advancement in the kingdom of Persia. We note that Mordecai could only watch and observe from without the gate.

Perhaps there are those within our lives with whom we are “sitting outside the gate” so to speak. Maybe we have cared for them, watched over them, and helped them in crisis areas of their lives and now we are only able to be on the outside looking in. What we must realize as Mordecai most likely did, that although he was sitting outside the king's gate, God Almighty was within the palace. Where Mordecai's influence was little over Esther now, God Almighty's was still strong. There were no gates for the Almighty when it came to Esther, and although Mordecai's position may have been outside, the loving God of the Universe held Esther within His mighty hand. We may receive encouragement today from the observation point of Mordecai as we think about those we love. God is with them, though we are not. God has them, though we do not, and God knows exactly what He is doing in their lives as we observe from the King of King's gate.

Next time we see that Esther was still keeping her secret even though she was queen, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Esther's Feast Esther 2:18 - Equipped for Battle

After naming Esther the queen of the Persian Empire, King Ahasuerus desires to celebrate. As we read chapter two and verse eighteen, let us keep in mind that Almighty God is working behind the scenes of what appears to be normal circumstances. We read:

Then the king made a great feast unto all his princes and his servants, even Esther's feast; and he made a release to the provinces, and gave gifts, according to the state of the king.

We might imagine for a moment that after four long years, King Ahasuerus finally has a new queen. Esther has been chosen among all the fair young maidens throughout the kingdom, and it is easy to think about both Esther and King Ahasuerus' delight. Our verse begins, “Then the king made a great feast unto all his princes and his servants, even Esther's feast;” We have not read of such a feast in all the four years since King Ahasuerus banished Queen Vashti from the throne. We are not sure whether there were any feasts in between, and we could hardly blame King Ahasuerus if he didn't because of what happened at the last one. However, things have changed, and now that Esther is his new queen, it is time to celebrate once again.

This feast is called “a great feast” which means it was on a large scale. As the feast we read about in the first chapter of Esther, this one was open to “all his princes and his servants”. It's as if anyone “in the know” was invited. Notice too that it was called “Esther's feast”. Esther who was the orphaned, displaced, younger cousin of Mordecai was now the queen of Persia, and this was cause for celebration upon many levels. Of course, these advancements for those who seemed underprivileged are often God's invisible hand at work.

Finally we read, “and he made a release to the provinces, and gave gifts, according to the state of the king.” First the king “made a release to the provinces” which means he gave them a day of rest or a holiday from all their specific duties, and then he also “gave gifts” which means he bestowed and granted portions, presents, contributions and offerings to the princes and servants. These are demonstrations of a man who is delighted in his queen, and his liberality was felt throughout the kingdom as he celebrated Queen Esther.

As we think about these things, let our minds take us into this vast celebration. What was it like to be there among the joviality, the feasting, the dancing, and music? How was King Ahasuerus intermingling among his guests, and what was Esther doing while she was there? Perhaps this wonderful feast will remind us of the “marriage supper of the lamb” spoken of in the book of Revelation for those who have received Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord. Indeed there will be feasting. Indeed there will be laughter and music, and indeed the King of Kings and Lord of Lords will be celebrating as His bride comes to be with Him someday.

Next time we see the young maidens gathered together for a second time, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Esther Made Queen Esther 2:17 - Equipped for Battle

When we left our story, Esther had entered the room during the tenth month and seventh year of King Ahasuerus' reign, and everyone was stricken by her beauty. She was immediately taken to the King's portion of the palace, and in chapter two and verse seventeen, she is made the new queen. We read:

And the king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti.

Our verse begins, “And the king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins;” When King Ahasuerus saw Esther, her preparation, her accessories, elegance, and demeanor, He was stricken by her. This was truly “love at first sight” and he did not mind that she was preferred over all the other women who made their appearance. She gained “grace” and “favor” in his sight right away. The word “grace” is “chen” and means “acceptance”, and the word “favor” is “checed” which means “goodness, kindness and faithfulness”. Esther received the acceptance and goodness of King Ahasuerus from the moment he saw her.

The verse continues, “so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti.” Not only was King Ahasuerus stricken by Esther, but he took action after he was - “he set the royal crown upon her head” which indicated to everyone that his selection for new queen was made. He made a public display of his affection and preference to Esther above all the other fair young maidens, and the beauty contest was over. Esther was now the new queen, and there was no longer a need for any others to appear.

We are told in the scriptures that we shall be given crowns for our efforts and works upon the Earth. However our coronation service will be a little different than it was for Esther. These crowns will be cast at Jesus' feet as a form of worship and appreciation for the sacrifice He made for all of us. As we meditate upon the crowning of Esther today, perhaps we will ponder first whether He will crown us with royalty someday, and secondly whether we would have any preparations made upon the Earth that would give us crowns to cast at His feet in appreciation. May the Lord bless our thoughts and move us to make our coronation His some day.

Next time we see King Ahasuerus hold a feast for Esther, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Esther's Turn Esther 2:16 - Equipped for Battle

Esther's time had finally come to appear before King Ahasuerus, and now twelve long months of preparation were complete. She wore the finest of accessories chosen specifically by Hegai who was the king's chamberlain, and as Esther stepped into the room, it was as if someone removed it's air. Esther's beauty was so striking that everyone took knowledge of her. In chapter two and verse sixteen we gain a little more insight into her appearance as it was her turn to be before the king. We read:

So Esther was taken unto king Ahasuerus into his house royal in the tenth month, which is the month Tebeth, in the seventh year of his reign.

Our verse begins, “So Esther was taken unto king Ahasuerus into his house royal in the tenth month, which is the month Tebeth,” So we are not left without the timing of Esther's appearance, the writer of Esther thought it necessary to provide it for us. Esther was taken into King Ahasuerus' royal house in the month “Tebeth” which means “goodness” and corresponds to modern December through January which are generally some of the coldest months of the year. We remember that she has been invited to the winter palace of Shushan, so it was during this time that she came in.

The verse goes on to say, “... in the seventh year of his reign.” The “seventh year” gives us more specifics within this story. In chapter one and verse three we learned of King Ahasuerus holding a feast for all the princes and servants of his provinces that lasted for one hundred and eighty days. Immediately following that feast, the king held another feast for those who were in his palace for seven days. It was during that time when King Ahasuerus was rejected by Queen Vashti, and he subsequently banished her from the throne. It has been four years since there was a queen in Persia, yet in the month of Tebeth in the seventh year of his reign, Esther stepped into his room and changed his world.

How long have we been waiting for God to “change our world”? Have we often wondered when it will be our time to appear and receive favor? Are there circumstances in our lives currently that seem to be tedious and slow and nothing more than preparation for something life changing in our future? As we consider the timing of Esther's entrance before King Ahasuerus, perhaps we will realize that our Almighty and caring God has specific timings for us as well. May we learn to walk in his timing and not that of our own.

Next time we see Esther made queen, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.

Esther's Favor Esther 2:15 - Equipped for Battle

One by one the fair young maidens gathered from all over the Persian empire are making their appearance before King Ahasuerus. Each one has been given twelve months of beauty treatments and is adorned with the finest accessories available. Finally in chapter two and verse fifteen, Esther makes her appearance where we read:

Now when the turn of Esther, the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her for his daughter, was come to go in unto the king, she required nothing but what Hegai the king's chamberlain, the keeper of the women, appointed. And Esther obtained favor in the sight of all them that looked upon her.

Our verse begins, “Now when the turn of Esther, the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her for his daughter, was come to go in unto the king,...” We discover more information about Esther in these words. First, Esther was the daughter of “Abihail” which means “my father is might”. Secondly, we notice that Abihail is the brother of Mordecai's dad. In other words, once again we see that Mordecai and Esther were cousins, and although they were, since Esther was younger than Mordecai, she became as a daughter to him.

The verse goes on to say, “she required nothing but what Hegai the king's chamberlain, the keeper of the women, appointed.” Esther, as we learned in previous verses, was easily instructed. When Mordecai told her to keep the secret of her nationality and family, she did, and now she is listening to and obeying Hegai the king's chamberlain. We remember that the other maidens were allowed to obtain any accessories they desired before they were presented to the king. Esther deferred her selection to Hegai who more than likely knew what the king enjoyed more than anyone else. Great wisdom was demonstrated by Esther as she allowed herself to be taught, and then obeyed the teaching.

Our verse ends, “And Esther obtained favor in the sight of all them that looked upon her.” When Esther entered the room, it appears that there was not only the king before her, but others were there as well. She “obtained favor” which means she gained great acceptance by all of them. She was so beautiful that she literally stopped the room. None of the other ladies made this king of impression, and when Esther stood before them, it was as if they were breathless.

Let's consider this for a moment. Who created Esther with such beauty? Who gave her this wisdom and insight? Who put her in the place and position that she would be able to have favor “in the sight of all them that looked upon her”? The answer is simple if we take a moment to ponder it. It was Almighty God creating, conducting, and orchestrating behind the scenes. Although these scriptures do not name Him or even make reference to Him, if we allow ourselves to look a little deeper, we can see His mighty hand at work even in the unseen. May we ever more learn that He is at work in our scenes to give us favor as well.

Next time we see the time of year when Esther was presented before Ahasuerus, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” and the new marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.