Ten Sons Killed and Spoil Left Esther 9:10 - Equipped for Battle

Parshandatha, Dalphon, Aspatha, Poratha, Adalia, Aridatha, Parmashta, Arisai, Aridai, and Vajezatha, were the names of the ten sons of Haman. We learned that their names meant: Given by prayer, dripping, the enticed gathered,fruitfulness or frustration, I shall be drawn up of Jah, the lion of the decree, superior, lion of my banners, the lion is enough, and strong as the wind. In chapter nine and verse ten we discover what the Jews did to these ten sons of their enemy. We read:

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.

The verse begins, “The ten sons of Haman the son of Hammedatha, the enemy of the Jews, slew they;” We notice first of all that Haman's father is listed among these enemies of the Jews - “Hammedatha” which means “double”. It appears that this was a generational hatred that was passed down by the grandfather of these ten sons. Regardless of the nature of the length of time involved, the Jews were able to defeat these foes by slaying them.

The verse goes on to say, “ but on the spoil laid they not their hand.” It was a normal course of action for the victors to take of the spoils left by their adversaries after defeating them, and it was noted earlier in chapter eight and verse one that Queen Esther was given the house of Haman. Perhaps those who defeated these sons knew that everything within their houses belonged to Queen Esther, and the Jews who destroyed the sons of Haman were contented just to have the victory over them. Knowing that these sons of Haman were no longer a threat was more than likely all the “spoils” they needed.

When we examine the names of the sons of Haman there almost seems to be a message within them. Compiled together we might remember the prayers and fasting of Mordecai and his call for all the Jews to do the same throughout the Persian empire – a dripping so to speak. Enemies were gathered against them, and although they thought they would destroy the Jews, the Jews were drawn up by God because the lion of the decree was superior, a banner, enough and strong as the wind. This may be just a coincidence that the names align in such a manner as this, however there is one thing for sure – the enemies of the Jews were defeated. These ten sons of Haman, grandsons of Hammedatha were slain, and the opposition to God's chosen people was destroyed. The question is, “Do we believe that God works in our lives in such a manner that even within the names of the children of our enemies His mighty plan would be revealed?” Perhaps as we ponder the ten names of the sons of Haman and the meaning of those names, we will be encouraged that God indeed does have a plan well in advance of our knowing anything about it.

Next time we will see a report given to the king of those killed within the palace, 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

Four More of Haman's Sons Esther 9:9 - Equipped for Battle

When the Jews defended themselves against Persian enemies who were obeying an edict to destroy them, the sons of Haman were some of those who opposed the Jews and lost. We have already looked at six of those son's names - Parshandatha, Dalphon, Aspatha, Poratha, Adalia, and Aridatha, and in chapter nine and verse nine we consider the final four names of the boys which are listed. We read:

And Parmashta, and Arisai, and Aridai, and Vajezatha,

The seventh name of the sons of Haman was “Parmashta” which means “superior”. As names go this name is probably one of the best for the sons of Haman listed. We might imagine his mother saying, “Superior, come do this” or “Superior go do that”. Perhaps this name was one that provoked his brothers to envy since no matter what he did he was always considered “superior”. Nonetheless, “Parmashta” was not superior to the Jews who exterminated him.

The eighth and next name listed is “Arisai”. This name means “lion of my banners” which comes from a word that means “like a lion”. For whatever reason Haman and his wife named this child with the inspiration of a lion involved. We read in the first epistle of Peter in chapter five and verse eight:

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour:

No doubt “Arisai” was one of those who thought he might be able to devour the Jews like a roaring lion but was easily tamed and eliminated by those who opposed him.

The ninth name listed is “Aridai”, and this name's meaning is very close to “Arisai”. It means, “the lion is enough”. Perhaps by this time Haman and his wife felt they had enough sons, so they thought “the lion is enough” completed their brood. Unfortunately for “Aridai” he too was not enough to combat the Jews when the uprising against them took place.

Finally we read the tenth name, “Vajezatha” which means "strong as the wind". Maybe early indications of this son was that he was very strong and would be able to withstand any foe who rose up against him. Although his name may have seem to indicate his strength, when the battle ensued against the Jews, he found himself nothing more than a little breeze. The Jews destroyed he and his brothers with the power of God's force behind them.

So what's in a name? For we who live today there may or may not be meanings attached, however there is significance to every person who lives. The author of Esther (more than likely Mordecai) thought it important to mention every name of these ten sons of Haman. Regardless of the intention for writing their names, these boys are mentioned in the Bible. The questions for us to consider are “where are they now?” “How did opposing the Jews work out for them?” “If they had it to do all over again, would they have made the same choices?” Perhaps as we ponder these questions we will examine our own lives and see how we align with the Almighty God and His people. It would behoove us to think on these things well before we find ourselves in the very places that these ten sons are today.

Next time we will see what the Jews did to Haman's ten sons, 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

Three More Sons of Haman Defeated Esther 9:8 - Equipped for Battle

As we continue our story about Esther, Mordecai, King Ahasuerus and Haman, we are looking at the names of the ten sons of Haman who were destroyed by the Jews when the uprising against them began on the thirteenth day of Adar. In chapter nine and verse eight, we find three more of those sons' names. We read:

And Poratha, and Adalia, and Aridatha,

The fourth son's name was “Poratha” which means "fruitfulness" or "frustration". This name is interesting because of the seeming contrast of possibilities. Perhaps this son was ambitiously named “fruitfulness” with the thought of the abundance of the sons Haman was reproducing, or it might have been that Haman desired “fruitfulness” which speaks of prosperity in his life. However, the possibility that this son became “frustration” may speak to the reason for the latter meaning of the name.

The fifth son's name was “Adalia”, and it means "I shall be drawn up of Jah". The word “Jah” in Hebrew is “God”. It would be interesting to know why Haman named this son with this meaning, however, it could be that it was his reference to his Persian god rather than Jehovah God of the Jews. Though Haman might have desired that “Adalia” be drawn up of his god, he rather faced execution by his enemies the Jews instead.

The sixth son of Haman was named, “Aridatha” which means "the lion of the decree". This name seems a bit odd because of the tie between his name and a “decree”. Perhaps there was a certain decree that went forth that inspired Haman to name his son after it, or it could have been that Haman was influential in certain decree of which he considered himself the “lion” behind it. Nonetheless, Aridatha faced the same fate as his other brothers – death by the Jews.

Fruitfulness, frustration, I shall be drawn up of Jah, and the lion of the decree, were all eliminated by the Jews in their retaliation against those who would destroy them. Once again we may consider that these sons watched their father hang from the fifty cubit gallows he had constructed for Mordecai, and revenge was probably upon their minds. When the day of legal permission to destroy the Jews came, no doubt these sons were in opposition to them. They, however, did not factor in that God Almighty was watching over His chosen people, and anyone, with any name, was not going to destroy them. As we consider these three sons, we might be benefited by reviewing our own names and their meanings, but more importantly that we align ourselves with the name above all names – Jesus – whose name means “Jehovah is Salvation”.

Next time we will look at the last four sons of 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

Jewish Victory over Three of Haman's Sons Esther 9:7 - Equipped for Battle

When the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, Adar, came, enemies of the Jews were allowed to destroy them all over the Persian empire. There was one catch to the enemies' destructive plan, the Jews could defend themselves. Five hundred of the Jews' enemies were killed in the palace of Shushan alone. In chapter nine and verse seven we consider three of ten listed sons of Haman with whom the Jews were also successful maintaining a resistance. The verse reads:

And Parshandatha, and Dalphon, and Aspatha,

Now upon first glance at these sons, they may not have any particular interest to us other than being listed as three of ten sons whom the children of Israel defeated. However if we take the time to look into their names and consider their lives we may gain a little more insight.

The first name listed is “Parshandatha” which means “given by prayer” or “given forth to light”. As we have noted in earlier studies, in those days children were often named according to their circumstances at birth. We might imagine that Haman and his wife had been praying to the Persian gods for a child and this son was one who would be enlightened in the Persian ways.

The second name listed is “Dalphon”, and it means “dripping”. Perhaps it was raining outside or this was an indication of the birth of this son. Nonetheless, once again we consider that Haman and his wife received this second son in birth.

The third name is “Aspatha” which means “the enticed gathered”. The idea portrayed in this name is like unto horses or bulls begin gathered together. Perhaps there was a great gathering of horses or bulls when this son was born. Haman thought this would be a proper name for this son.

“Given by prayer”, “Dripping” and “the enticed gathered” may seem like unusual names for us, however, perhaps having sons in our families is not. We should remember that these boys' father, Haman, was hung a few months before by order of King Ahasuerus on a fifty foot gallows which was built by him. They probably knew the gallows was built for Mordecai, and now Mordecai sat as second in command in the King's palace. Although their names might be different, their purpose of heart for revenge more than likely was not. When the thirteenth day of Adar arrived, these boys were ready to avenge their father's honor. There was just one problem, they were fighting against the people of the Almighty God, and they lost.

As we seek to imagine ourselves in this part of the story, perhaps we will consider that our enemy has his “sons” who would love to avenge. The people of God are protected by Him when they align themselves with Jesus Christ His Son. As God defended the Jews against anyone who was against them, so will He do with us when we stay on His side. May the Lord help us to consider those who are against us as foes against Him, and no matter what their names are or what they mean, God will have them under His control.

Next time we will look at three more sons with which the Jews were victorious, 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

Jewish Victory in the Palace Esther 9:6 - Equipped for Battle

The Jews had begun their defense all over the Persian empire against enemies whose purpose was to destroy them. With the sword, slaughter and destruction, Jews were doing anything they desired with those who hated them. In chapter nine and verse six, we see the Jews domination even in the palace located in Shushan where we read:

And in Shushan the palace the Jews slew and destroyed five hundred men.

Our verse begins, “And in Shushan the palace the Jews slew and destroyed...” Let's imagine this scene for a moment. The thirteenth day of the twelfth month Adar arrived, and all over the Persian kingdom Jews were defending themselves against attackers. One of those attack spots was within the palace of Shushan? Shushan? Where Queen Esther and Mordecai lived? The month of Adar corresponded to the modern day March-April, and we remember that the palace at Shushan was used for the winter months by the Persian kings, but this seems to indicate that there were enemies of the Jews even within the very palace of the King himself.

The verse goes on to say, “...and destroyed five hundred men.” There were not just a few who opposed the Jews within the palace, but “five hundred” of them. This word “palace” can be translated “citadel” and might mean there were five hundred men against them who were located in the proximity of the palace, but nonetheless, five hundred of them were defended against and killed during the Jews retaliation. The overwhelming idea is to help us understand that the Jewish resistance against those who hated them was widespread and complete.

When we consider the attack by the enemy of the Jews in their own homes, we may be reminded that the enemy of our soul will attack us in the places we live as well. Opposition to our walk with the Lord Jesus will be encountered everyday, and the example of the Jews defeating their enemies is an inspiration for having victory over ours. Maybe the next time a battle seems to be brewing within our “palace” we too will call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and destroy any mayhem our enemy may desire to cause in our homes.

Next time we will look at the first three of ten cities within which the Jews were victorious, 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 Jews Defend and Win Esther 9:5 - Equipped for Battle

The scene was set, and the time had come. It was the thirteenth day of the twelfth month Adar, and enemies of the Jews were ready to attack them according to the first edict sent out by King Ahasuerus and inspired by Haman. If they killed the Jews, they would be entitled to confiscate their belongings, and although many of their foes were in fear, still some who hated the Jews were going to attack them anyway. In chapter nine and verse five see see the results of these vicious attacks. We read:

Thus 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.

The verse begins, “Thus the Jews smote all their enemies with the stroke of the sword, and slaughter, and destruction,...” Because there was such a fear upon the enemies of the Jews, when they did attack, the Jews “smote all their enemies”. Let us notice that it wasn't just a few of them, but “all” of them, and the way they did it was active – “with the stroke of the sword”; complete – with “slaughter” which means a slaying or killing; and with “destruction” which comes from a root word which means perish, vanish, go astray, or be destroyed. None of the Jews' enemies could withstand their defense.

The verse goes on to say, “and did what they would unto those that hated them.” Not only did the Jews use their swords, slaughter and destruction upon all their enemies, but they also did whatever they wanted to those who hated them. It was as if there was no resistance to the Jews retaliation at all. This was a thorough defeat everywhere in the Persian empire, and if anyone, anywhere attempted to come against them, the Jews were more than able to defend. This victory was comprehensive and complete.

When we are in alignment with the Almighty God and His Son Jesus Christ, we have the greatest defense available to us. As He was with the Jews, so with us shall He be. Our enemies may be physical or spiritual such as these who hated and opposed the Jews, but in whatever state they come we can be reminded of what Isaiah the prophet said in chapter fifty four and verse seventeen:

No weapon that is formed against you shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against you in judgment you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, says the LORD.

Our part in the battles within life is to rely upon, trust in, and cling to the Lord Jesus while He equips us to defeat the foes who are against us. Let us be inspired by the complete destruction of the enemies of the Jews so that we will boldly defend against those who hate us. May our victory be as complete as the Jews who depended upon the Almighty God for their defense.

Next time we shall examine what the Jews did to those who were in the palace in Shushan, 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 - Great, Famous, and Greater Esther 9:4 - Equipped for Battle

As the Jews prepared to defend themselves against anyone who would obey the edict sent out formerly by King Ahasuerus to destroy them, rulers, lieutenants, deputies, and officers throughout the kingdom were not only helping them, but were afraid of the Jews and Mordecai as well. In chapter nine and verse four, we continue to see how Mordecai became even greater among them. We read:

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.

The verse begins, “For Mordecai was great in the king's house,...” We may wonder, why were the people of the Persian empire fearful of Mordecai? The first answer is that he “was great in the king's house.” Word spread all over the kingdom about Mordecai's story and his relationship to Queen Esther. Also we will remember that Mordecai was paraded through the streets of Shushan and announced by Haman, “Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king delights to honor.” No doubt confabulation concerning Mordecai's new position of power and him being a Jew spread everywhere.

The verse goes on to tell us the second reason people feared him. It says, “and his fame went out throughout all the provinces:” Notoriety for his elevation of position within the kingdom made people in the Persian empire aware of this man Mordecai. Surely the story of Queen Esther revealing that she was a Jew and her cousin Mordecai was responsible for not only her care but her inspiring her to solicit a law for the Jews to protect themselves against destruction became widely known. Because Mordecai dictated the verbiage of the law to defend, no doubt people knew who he was.

Finally, the third reason people feared Mordecai was written - “for this man Mordecai waxed greater and greater.” The idea portrayed in this portion of the verse is that Mordecai became more and more prominent and powerful. What started out as exile from his homeland to sitting in ashes at the palace gate, culminated in Mordecai becoming one of the most powerful men in the Persian empire. Because of his faithfulness in little things, there was much added to him and the knowledge of him was spread everywhere.

As we consider these words today, we are reminded of what Jesus said about one man who was found faithful in the gospel of Luke in chapter nineteen and verse seventeen where we read:

And he said unto him, Well, you good servant: because you have been faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities.

We may wonder how advancement such as Mordecai's comes into our own lives, and we may be curious as to whether God would give us such opportunity as Mordecai. This we may know, as Mordecai was faithful in the little things, God promoted him over and over again. His promotion was so great that people all over the lands of Persia knew and feared him. May we ever be so faithful in the little things to our King of Kings Jesus so that He too will promote us according to His perfect plan and His perfect will.

Next time we shall see what the Jews did to those who were their enemies, 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

Rulers, Helpers, and the Fear of Mordecai Esther 9:3 - Equipped for Battle

The time had come for the edict inspired by Haman for all the Jews to be destroyed throughout the kingdom of Persia. Because of a subsequent law inspired by Mordecai and Queen Esther, the Jews were in a position to defend themselves from anyone who might attack them, and a great fear of the Jews was upon everyone in the kingdom. In chapter nine and verse three we see how even the governing officials were afraid of the Jews, and they helped them because of their fear. We read:

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.

The verse begins, “And all the rulers of the provinces, and the lieutenants, and the deputies, and officers of the king, helped the Jews;” Let us notice first the word “all”. This wasn't just a few rulers, or a few men, but it was “all” the rulers, lieutenants, deputies, and officers of the king. They “all” helped the Jews. We can imagine how these rulers and officials were when they heard the first command from the king to destroy the Jews, and more than likely they were on board with the plan. However, at this point they are “all” helping the Jewish people. We might wonder, “why would they do this?” We shall see in the next part of our verse.

The verse goes on to say, “because the fear of Mordecai fell upon them.” If we stop to think about this for a moment we might even chuckle at this statement. Just a few chapters ago Mordecai was fasting for his people while sitting at the palace gate in sackcloth and ashes. Now he is such an intimidating figure that all the rulers, lieutenants, deputies, and officers of the king are afraid of him. These great officials were so fearful of Mordecai and what he might do to them that rather than destroy the Jews, they helped them.

Proverbs chapter sixteen and verse seven says,

When a man's ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.

Mordecai illustrated this wonderful statement. The question is, “Are we the same way?” Do others know that we are so well connected with God that they have a reverence to our very lives? Do they see us as so close to God that they would help others within our “command” to overcome their plights? As we consider our verse today we should keep in mind that the position Mordecai enjoyed was given by God from behind the scenes. Only God could raise a man from sackcloth and ashes to the right hand man to the king. Only God could orchestrate such ominous circumstances that lowly Mordecai could be raised to great honor, and only God can bring us to the place among people that when they see us, they will know that we have been with Him.

Next time we shall see Mordecai become even greater in the Persian kingdom, 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 Jews Gathered to Defend Esther 9:2 - Equipped for Battle

The thirteenth day of the month of Adar had arrived, and Jews scattered throughout the Persian empire knew there was a command sent out by King Ahasuerus that they should all be destroyed. For those who killed them, the Jewish wares would be theirs. By God's grace a subsequent law sent out by the king allowed for the Jews to defend themselves from anyone who attacked them, and in chapter nine and verse two we see the Jews preparing for their assailants. We read:

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.

The verse begins, “The Jews gathered themselves together in their cities throughout all the provinces of the king Ahasuerus,...” When we use our mind's eye, we can almost visualize this great gathering of the Jews. They knew the news, and they were anticipating the date when their demise was planned. Although they had the second law that allowed them to defend themselves, they still must have been anxious. It would be as if we knew on a certain day there was someone who was going to break into our houses, kill our families, and loot our belongings. Though we might have the ability to defend against them, there would be those anxious moments. Nonetheless, the Jews prepared themselves by gathering together throughout “all the provinces of King Ahasuerus”.

The verse goes on to say, “to lay hand on such as sought their hurt: and no man could withstand them;” Although the second command to defend themselves was sent out, there were still those within the Persian empire who sought to carry out the first law to destroy the Jews. When they would attempt to hurt the Jews, none were successful. No one could come against the Jewish people and make advancement against them.

Finally the verse says, “for the fear of them fell upon all people.” A massive wave of fear of the Jews poured over the people within the kingdom of Persia. Although they were given the command to destroy the Jews, the non-Jews within the Persian empire were struck with fear and were afraid of what would happen if they were to attack them. Just because a governmental law was in place to destroy the Jews, it didn't mean that the law of emotions would prevent the law from being fulfilled.

Can we again see the mighty hand of God at work in the Jewish people's lives? This fear spread throughout the Persian empire, and like the many references within the Bible that tell us that “God caused a great fear to come upon them” we see God at work again. The Almighty was protecting His people. God knew the messiah would come through the Jews. He ordained it. He planned it, and He spoke about it through the prophets of old. These who sought to destroy the Jews were only fooling themselves if they thought they could come against God's chosen people. God would save them, and God would preserve them because not only they but we needed a Savior. Jesus Christ had to come for us to be in a relationship with God. God did save them, and God sent the fear upon all who would come against them. God sent Jesus Christ through the Jews that He preserved. Glory be to God in the Highest!

Next time we shall see the Jews' neighbors helping them, 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

Power Turned to the Contrary Esther 9:1 - Equipped for Battle

The time had come for the two Persian edicts to take place. The first was the command that all the Jews throughout the Persian empire be killed, and the second was that Jews everywhere could defend themselves against the onslaught of those who would destroy them. Both of these laws were signed by King Ahasuerus, and the fulfillment of them was at hand. In chapter nine and verse one we read the beginning of what happens in this part of our story. It says:

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;)

The verse begins, “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,...” Can we imagine what it must have been like to have been a Jew at this time? They knew the day, “in the twelfth month, that is, the month Adar, on the thirteenth day of the same,”, that their enemies were to attack them. They prepared themselves as much as possible and knew that the enemies were prepared as well. As two armies arrayed for battle, each side had their law to follow and were purposed to keep them. There was only one aspect to these laws left to fulfill - “execution”. The planning was over. The strategies were made, and the time was at hand.

The verse goes on to say, “....in the day that the enemies of the Jews hoped to have power over them,” This was the greatest threat to the Jews. Their enemies knew that if they could defeat them, they would enjoy the spoils of their victories. Let us imagine if we knew there were enemies allowed and commanded by our government to destroy us, and if they did so, they could have everything we owned. What would our attitude be? How would we think about our government? How would we posture ourselves? Perhaps as we answer those questions it will give us a glimpse into the thoughts of the Jews at that time.

Finally the verse reads, “(though it was turned to the contrary, that the Jews had rule over them that hated them;)” Although the enemies against God's people thought to have the victory over them, “it was turned to the contrary,...” Rather than their enemies destroying the Jews, the Jews ruled over them. We again note that Queen Esther and Mordecai were in very high positions, and this connection must have served to give notice to those who were foes to the Jews. Those who “hated” the Jews were put to disadvantage even though they thought themselves to be in positions to be victorious.

As we consider the irony shown in this verse, let us consider the awesome hand of God behind the scenes. Only God could turn the tables on the Jews' enemies in this manner. Only God could have orchestrated powerful positions for Esther and Mordecai that would effect the entire Persian empire, and Only God could have “turned it to the contrary” in such a manner as was demonstrated in this story. Since it was “only God” who did all these things, is it possible that in the midst of our seemingly devastating circumstances God is busy at work for our rescue as well? Are we not inspired that this gracious, loving and all-knowing God has planned his work and is working His plan even when we see no evidence that He is? May God give us eyes to see Him and ears to hear Him as He works His mighty plan.

Next time we shall see the Jews ready to defend themselves, 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

A Feast, A Good Day, and New Jews Esther 8:17 - Equipped for Battle

The celebration of the Jews began because the edict to destroy them could be defended against in the kingdom of Persia. Although people from everywhere in the one hundred and twenty-seven provinces were commanded to destroy the Jews by a first law inspired by wicked deceased Haman, the subsequent law inspired by Mordecai and Queen Esther would allow the Jews to take up arms against anyone who attempted their demise. The Jews had light, gladness, joy and honor, and in chapter eight verse seventeen we see more of their celebration and how it affected others around them. We read:

And in every province, and in every city, wherever 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.

The verse begins, “And in every province, and in every city, wherever the king's commandment and his decree came, the Jews had joy and gladness, a feast and a good day.” As a repetition to the exuberance stated within verse sixteen, we read of the expanse of the celebration - “in every province.” We can almost imagine the Jews when they heard the news of the couriers of the new law. As these posts rode into their towns and villages on mules and camels and read the new decree from the king, the Jews “had joy and gladness”, and they held “feasts” and declared it a “good day”.

The verse goes on to say, “And many of the people of the land became Jews;” The effect of the Jews was so demonstrative that others around them became Jews because of it. Those who thought themselves once to benefit by destroying Jews, because they could ransack their wares should they defeat them, actually became Jews themselves. This was a testimony to the effect that the Jews' joy and gladness had upon their neighbors. Their lives were lived before others in such a manner that they were proselyted into their religion. In other words they left their idolatry, held to the Jewish beliefs, and served the one and true living God.

Finally the verse says, “for the fear of the Jews fell upon them.” The reason stated for the Jews' neighbors alignment with them was “for fear of the Jews”. Perhaps as they heard of the fate of Haman a fear went throughout the land, and when those around them considered the Jews, they saw them as a formidable foe. We can imagine the thoughts of the Persians when they heard how the tables turned upon Haman, and now that the queen and the second man in charge were known to be Jews, there was a definite threat for opposing them. Nonetheless, the effect throughout the kingdom was conversion of many to the Jewish religion.

How do others see our lives lived before them? Do we demonstrate the salvation of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in such a manner that others are attracted to Him? Do we have joy and gladness in our lives because we too have been delivered from our enemy Satan who would have us to be destroyed? Are others looking upon us with a fearful reverence because we are so connected to the King of Kings? Perhaps as we ponder this verse today we will think about the effect that we are having upon our neighbors? If they look at our lives and the ways we conduct ourselves, are they willing to leave their idols to serve the true and living God? May the Lord help us to examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith and living in a godly manner for others to see.

Next time we shall begin a new chapter and see the beginning of the Jews defense, 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

Light, Gladness, Joy and Honor Esther 8:16 - Equipped for Battle

Queen Esther and Mordecai were rejoicing because the law that was meant for their destruction was counteracted with another law that allowed for Jews throughout the Persian empire to defend themselves. God had intervened behind the scenes, and by using natural circumstances His will was accomplished and Esther and Mordecai were excited about it. In chapter eight and verse sixteen we see the effect this new law had on the Jews all over the land. We read:

The Jews had light, and gladness, and joy, and honor.

Our verse begins with the first of four reactions from the Jews, “The Jews had light...” which is the light of joy and happiness. We might imagine what a great burden was lifted from them when they heard this new law.

The second reaction was, “...and gladness” which conveys the idea of mirth, joy, gaiety, pleasure. No doubt there was an incredible sense of relief as they heard they could defend themselves. More than likely they celebrated and possibly sang and danced at this good news.

The third reaction of the Jews was, “...and joy” which means gladness, joy, exultation, rejoicing. We add the word “exultation” to our definition of this reaction, and it portrays the idea that they were once very low in spirit, and now they were lifted up inside. No doubt they went from humbled sadness to exceeding excitement as they heard this news.

The final reaction was, “...and honor” which is price, value, preciousness, honor, splendor, and pomp. Where the Jews were feeling of little value because they were destined to be destroyed, they were now given positions of honor. It probably did not hurt that the number two man in the kingdom was a Jew, and by the way, so was the Queen. Nonetheless the Jews throughout the Persian empire were removed from the position of humility to a position of honor.

When we think about the Jews reaction to this salvation plan, we might be able to relate it to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Mankind was doomed to be condemned because of its sin until Jesus came to die on the cross. When Jesus died, He took upon Himself the sin of the whole world, and now that the rescue of the Savior is complete, the only remaining factor is whether people will believe in Him or not. Those who have received this precious gift from God Almighty are people whose hearts are lightened; They are filled with gladness; They are overwhelmed by gladness; and they have been lifted from the place of dishonor to honor before God the Father. There is no greater thing on Earth whereby men and women, boys and girls will ever know what it is to celebrate the freedom that is provided by God above.

Next time we will discover the effect that this new law had upon the people of the Persian empire, 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 Celebration Esther 8:15 - Equipped for Battle

In chapter three of Esther the Jews were in dire trouble. Because of the hatred of Haman the Agagite, a law was constructed and published that Jews throughout the Persian empire should be destroyed. Chapter four told us of Mordecai fasting and challenging Queen Esther that she should appeal to the king. He told her she may have been exalted to her position “for such a time as this.” In chapter seven of Esther, Queen Esther revealed that she was a Jew and that Haman was behind this law for she and her people's demise. Haman was hung on his own gallows in that same chapter for his subterfuge, and in chapter eight, a new law inspired by Mordecai was written and published for all the kingdom to see. In chapter eight and verse fifteen we see the reaction of Mordecai to the new law being written. We read:

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.

The verse begins, “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:” After knowing the posts left the palace with the message that the Jews could defend themselves against anyone who obeyed the first law meant for their destruction, Mordecai goes from the king's presence with his new aristocratic apparel. We can almost picture in our minds his royal clothing which was made of a deep blue and white material. He put a “great crown of gold” which means a large and important crown upon his head, and in addition put on other garments of “fine linen and purple” which denoted wealth and royalty. Mordecai, who once sat in ashes fasting, was dressed like a king, and he who was humble before God and everyone around him was now exalted to the position of great value in the kingdom.

The verse goes on to say, “...and the city of Shushan rejoiced and was glad.” Let's take notice that because of Mordecai's willingness to be dressed in royalty, the “city of Shushan” was affected by it. They rejoiced over Mordecai's position, and now rather than being sad, overwhelmed, and distraught about the pending doom, those who looked upon Mordecai were “glad”. In other words, they celebrated. The gloom and despair over the once threatening edict of destruction was now turned to a time of great rejoicing throughout the city of Shushan.

In the gospel of Matthew in chapter twenty-three and verse twelve we read Jesus' words:

And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.

Jesus gave those who will listen to Him the key to being exalted before others: be humble. Mordecai illustrated this position as he sat in ashes when he first heard the decree that meant not only his demise but also the destruction of his people. Mordecai sat in sackcloth and ashes. Mordecai fasted and prayed, and as he humbled himself before God and man, the Almighty fulfilled the very words Jesus spoke. As we ponder today's verse, we might ask, “What is troubling us so much that we would be willing to humble ourselves before God and man so that He would exalt us in His timing?” Is there an issue in our lives that seems so filled with doom that we wonder if God really cares about it? Maybe this would be a great time to realize that the God we serve stands ready to clothe us in royal apparel, set a golden crown upon our heads, dress us in fine linen, and have others rejoice and be glad with us because He has intervened.

Next time we will see the effect that this second law had upon 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

The Given Decree Esther 8:14 - Equipped for Battle

A law to save the Jews from the demise set forth by a previous law was inspired by Mordecai and requested to King Ahasuerus by Queen Esther. After issuing the new law for the Jews to defend themselves throughout the land of Persia, the king gave the command that the word should be spread everywhere. In chapter eight and verse fourteen we read more about the new law being heralded. We read:

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.

The verse begins, “So the posts that rode upon mules and camels went out, being hastened and pressed on by the king's commandment.” Let us use our imaginations for a moment as we consider this scene. Scribes within the kingdom were the printing presses of the day, so they probably wrote several copies of this new law. Men prepared their mules and camels, and they gather their provisions for travel. They had their map or way in tow, and they set out on this important postal mission. Let's note too that they were “hastened and pressed on” by the king. This was an urgent message, and since these posts were to travel some distances throughout the land, timing was of the essence. We can almost picture these men driving the camels and mules to move faster and faster as they went.

The verse goes on to say, “And the decree was given at Shushan the palace.” We might recall that the palace at Shushan was the winter palace for the kings of Persia. The significance of the timing and place of this new message was that there is a good chance that the other edict would not have reached its destination as yet. The second law would need to reach the people in all of the one hundred and twenty-seven provinces before the first law took place. Shushan is where the first law was sent out, and where the second law was sent out as well.

The interesting part of this verse is that it relates closely to our gospel commission today. People are spiritually condemned unless they have received Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. This was the reason Jesus came to the Earth. We, like the posts of the days of Esther, are commissioned to share the word of salvation by Jesus Christ throughout the vast world in which we live. It is an urgent message, and all who hear the word of the good news of Jesus Christ must hear it before it is too late. Perhaps as we consider this verse we will ready ourselves as the posts in Esther's day did, and although we might not be going out on camels and mules, the message we carry is nonetheless eternally important. May we travel with exuberance and excitement as we hurry to share the given decree.

Next time we will see Mordecai dressed in royal apparel, 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