Faith Virtue Knowledge 2 Peter 1:5

As Peter progressed through this second letter to the church, he noted the divine power and promises that have been given to those who believe in Jesus Christ to be godly. Through the knowledge of God and His Son Jesus Christ, those who believe in Him begin a growing process that helps them adhere more and more to the divine nature. In chapter one and verse five Peter demonstrated how we are to grow in our relationship with God where he wrote:

And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;

The verse begins, “And beside this, giving all diligence,”. Peter begins with the phrase, “beside this” which means “in addition to, along side of, or for this very reason”, and he implies that because these great and precious promises and divine power have been given, those who receive them should be “giving all diligence” which infers “earnestness in accomplishing, promoting, or striving after anything” to what he is about to mention. In other words, those whom Peter addresses should pay particular attention to what he is about to write.

The verse continues, “add to your faith virtue;”. The journey of a Christian begins with “faith” which means to “rely upon, cling to and trust in” Jesus Christ. This is the first step. Peter says believers should “add” to their faith. It is as though faith is the foundation, and other attributes are to be joined to that foundation. Peter says “virtue” which means “a virtuous course of thought, feeling and action; moral goodness” should be the outflow of a faith relationship with Jesus Christ. Once we believe in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord our lives should begin to change, and “virtue” will be the natural outflow.

The verse goes on to say, “and to virtue knowledge;”. As “virtue” is added to our faith, we next acquire “knowledge” which implies “knowledge in general intelligence, understanding”. The idea is that we know by experience. Once we have believed in Jesus and begun the way of moral goodness, we will know more of the Christian experience and relationship with God. Like rungs on a ladder, we as Christians are to climb higher and higher in maturity and fellowship with Him.

As we think about the words in this verse, perhaps we are drawn to examine our own lives and see if we are growing. Have we added “virtue” to our “faith”? Have we joined “knowledge” to our “virtue”? As we consider these things, let us keep in mind that God has given us divine power and exceeding great promises to live this godly life, and as we are challenged by the rungs of growth, let us continually rely upon Him to supply what we need to grow every day.

Next time we will continue to look at Peter's list for growing in our relationship with God, 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

Great and Precious Promises 2 Peter 1:4

As we continue through this second letter written by the apostle Peter just before his death, we have learned of some of the wonderful benefits that our Heavenly Father has provided for us that we might have a relationship with Him. In chapter one and verse four we learn of great and precious promises which also come our way. We read:

Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

The verse begins, “Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises:” Through the knowledge of God and His Son Jesus Christ as we are called unto “glory and virtue” we are given “exceeding and precious promises.” As though it is not enough just to have promises, Peter emphasizes that our promises are “exceeding great” which is the Greek word “megistos” and means “greatest, very great”. God gives forth “mega” promises to those who give their lives to Him, but that is not all. Peter also says they are “precious” promises. This is the second time that big old fisherman tough guy Peter has employed the word “precious”. This Greek word “timios” means “of great price, held in honor, esteemed and especially dear”. The promises from God the Father and His Son Jesus are beyond our ability to comprehend in both value and expanse. But why would He provide such promises? We shall see in the next part of our verse.

The verse continues, “that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature,”. With the exceeding great and precious promises we may be “partakers of the divine nature.” In other words with the promises of God with us we can take on and exhibit the nature of God – “the divine nature.” Without the power and promises of God we cannot be like Him, however, when we have the “divine power” as written of by Peter in verse three and the “exceeding and precious promises” we can live in the Godly manner in which our Heavenly Father desires.

Finally the verse says, “having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” When we begin to live the Godly life, we will have in effect “escaped the corruption that is in the world”. Rather than have characteristics like the world, we will have the characteristics of God. We have fled from the normal path which leads people into the corruptible ways of the world through their lusts, and have been given the power and promises to live the way God desires we live.

As we think about this verse for a few moments, let us be reminded once again of the exceeding great and precious promises God has given. Our Heavenly Father desires that we live Godly lives, and He has provided the means by which that Godly life may be obtained. Perhaps we will begin to enjoy the promises and power that our Heavenly Father has provided through His Son Jesus Christ, and “be partakers” of the very “divine nature” He has given to all who believe.

Next time we will look at the way we grow as Christians, 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

All Things to Life and Godliness 2 Peter 1:3

Peter has begun his second book to the church which is called after his name. His opening words defined who he was - “a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ “, and directs attention toward those to whom he was writing - “them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:”. He added a blessing to his readers by desiring that grace and peace be multiplied unto them through the knowledge of God and our Lord Jesus Christ, and in chapter one and verse three he continues his opening. We read:

According as his divine power has given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:

The verse begins, “According as his divine power has given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness” Peter writes of “divine power” which marks the difference between someone living life and obtaining godliness by themselves. The implication is that “divine power” is what is needed to have “all things” that pertain to this life”. Without “divine power” we would not be able to live at all never mind live through the difficulties that life brings. However, “life” is not all Peter mentions. He also includes “godliness” in this phrase. “Godliness” is “piety towards God” and implies “holiness”. In other words it is the proper and necessary relationship we must have with God. Without “divine power” we could not obtain the proper and pious relationship with God. God not only set forth the requirement of “godliness” but also gave us the power to live godly.

The verse goes on to say, “through the knowledge of him that has called us to glory and virtue:” After reading that we have been given “divine power” for “all things that pertain unto life and godliness” we may wonder how do we obtain it? Peter answers that question with another reminder that it is “through the knowledge of him that has called us”. As we begin to know God through the Bible, we receive His power to live through every life event, and our exposure to Him leads us to “godliness”. We are called “to glory and virtue”. “Glory” is “magnificence, excellence, preeminence, dignity, and grace; a most glorious condition, and most exalted state”. “Virtue” is “moral excellence, as modesty, and purity” It is to these two condition that we must aspire. We are “called” to them, and through the knowledge of God we shall fulfill our call.

Are we “Godly” people? Is our country a “Godly” nation? If we look around at the influences through the media would we consider that we have obtained the “glory and virtue” to which we are called? If others were to examine our lives would they consider us “Godly” people? If there has ever been a time to receive the “divine power” of God to be what He has called us to be, it is now. “Godliness, glory, and virtue” fade when we as individuals forsake the knowledge of God, and it is even worse when a country does so. Perhaps as we think about Peter's words today, we will bow our heads before God Almighty and His Son Jesus Christ and ask that the knowledge of them become a raging desire for not only ourselves, but for our nation before it is too late.

Next time we will see the promises God has given to us, 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

Grace and Peace Multiplied 2 Peter 1:2

As Peter addresses the church in this final letter, he knows they have received the like precious faith that he has through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ. In chapter one and verse two he greets his readers with a typical greeting of that day. We read:

Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,

The verse begins, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you...” The word “grace” is the Greek word “charis” which means “that which affords joy, pleasure, delight, sweetness, charm, loveliness: grace of speech”. It also implies “good will, loving-kindness, and favor”. The second word Peter employs is “peace” which is the Greek word “eriene” which means “peace between individuals, i.e. harmony and concord”. This typical greeting between those who were in the church was meant to bless the hearers or readers of it, and the fact that Peter desired that these characteristics be “multiplied” to his readers meant an extra special blessing was shared with them.

The verse goes on to say, “...through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,”. Though the blessings of “grace and peace” are wonderful blessings to be multiplied to his readers, Peter gives the way these are obtained... ”through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,”. By gaining knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord we grow in our ability to be gracious, and our sense of peace is realized no matter what circumstances are around us.

When we study the Bible we gain knowledge of God and our Lord Jesus Christ. As we work through each chapter and verse we find that they relate to our lives, and when circumstances arise that are difficult we are immediately reminded of the words of God. In the book of Romans in chapter 10 and verse seventeen we read:

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

The idea portrayed within this verse is that we are to be hearing, and hearing, and hearing, and hearing the word of God. When we practice this Biblical constancy, we grow in our knowledge of Him, and when we learn of God, we learn of His Son Jesus as well. The result is that we continue to have grace and peace multiplied to us. As we ponder Peter's warm greeting to his readers, perhaps we will be inspired to grow in our knowledge of God and Our Lord Jesus Christ as we study His words day by day.

Next time we will discover what God has given to us, 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

Simon Peter and Those with Like Precious Faith 2 Peter 1:1

We learned who the author of this book called Second Peter was in our previous study – “Simon Peter” which means Hearkening Stone, and as chapter one and verse one continues we see how Peter describes his position in Jesus Christ and to whom he is writing. We read:

Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:

The verse begins, “Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ,...”. Let's notice first that Peter calls himself a “servant” which is the Greek work “doulos” and means “bond-servant”. A bond-servant was a servant who willingly desired to be a servant for his master. In other words he is devoted to another to the disregard of his own interests. In the book of Exodus in chapter twenty-one and verse one through six we learn what it means to be a willing bond-servant. A servant or slave would work for six years for personally incurred debt or bankruptcy and was to be set free in the seventh year. If, however, he desired to continue serving his master he would become a “bond-servant”, receive an earring in his ear as a symbol of his servanthood, and continue with his master for the rest of his days. Exodus chapter twenty-one and verses five and six tell us:

And if the servant shall plainly say, I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free: Then his master shall bring him unto the judges; he shall also bring him to the door, or unto the door post; and his master shall bore his ear through with an aul; and he shall serve him for ever.

Peter was a willing servant of Jesus Christ before he was an “apostle” or “called out one” for him. Once Peter's primary position was set, he was now ready to be what Jesus called him to be.

The verse continues, “to them that have obtained like precious faith with us...”. Peter's audience for his writing is found in this portion of the verse. Those who “have obtained like precious faith” or in other words those who have placed their trust in, relied upon and clung to Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord. Peter is basically writing to those who are within the church who are known as Christ's body. Let's also notice Peter's inclusionary phrase “with us” which implies that he knows his personal need for this “precious faith” is just as great as anyone who is reading his words.

Finally the verse reads, “through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:”. Peter concludes this introductory verse with the manner in which he and those who believe in Jesus received this precious faith. It was through God's righteousness and our Saviour Jesus Christ's righteousness that we received it. It was not of any acts or works which we have done, but “through the righteousness” of them that anyone may believe in the first place. The basic idea is that it was God who began the work. It is our Savior Jesus Christ who continued the work, and they work together that we may be participants in the most precious commodity available to man – a relationship with God.

Next time we will discover the greeting which Peter employs as he writes to his readers, 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

Simon Peter 2 Peter 1:1 - Equipped for Battle

As we begin a new book, we turn our interest to the author. This book was written by Peter who was one of the original disciples of Jesus Christ. He is writing these words toward the end of his life, quite possibly the last year of his life in 68 A.D., and he is sharing his final words with his readers. He has been influenced by the gospel, changed by the gospel, and promoted the gospel of Jesus Christ for many years, and his words are directed toward those who would remain after his demise. In chapter one and verse one we read:

Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:

The verse begins, “Simon...”. This was Peter's original given name, and often we have heard it means “shifting sand”, however there is a subtle change in the word Peter employs as he begins this letter. He uses the Greek word “Symeōn” which means “hearkening” rather than the word “Simōn” which is used throughout the gospels and the book of Acts. “Simon” means “a rock or stone”. Therein lies the quiet hint that rather than being a person who is solid in their relationship with the Lord Jesus at one time, and not so solid the next, Peter has found the best way toward stability is to hearken or listen.

He next uses the word “Peter” which is the Greek word “Petros” and it means “a rock or a stone”. This is the name that Jesus gave to him shortly after their first engagement while He was on the earth. Peter's brother Andrew heard Jesus speak and brought him to Jesus as recorded in the gospel of John in chapter one. Jesus also called Simon “Cephas” which means “a stone”, and though it was very early in his relationship with Jesus, Jesus could already see in Peter a man who would be solidly committed to Him and to the spreading of His word.

There is indeed at times “something in a name”. Peter who when we read of his accounts with Jesus and his subsequent adventures with the gospel may have seemed quite unstable at times. We should be able to relate to him, and we can learn from this subtle alteration of word choice as he names himself at the beginning of this book. “Hearkening” or listening to our Savior Jesus is one of the best positions we may take in life if we are ever going to be solid in our relationship with Him. Perhaps this will be our question for pondering today, “Am I hearkening or listening to the Lord regularly in my life?”

Next time we will discover how Peter sees himself in light of his relationship to Jesus, 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, Accepted, Seeking and Speaking Esther 10:3 - Equipped for Battle

We have learned in this short and final chapter of the book of Esther about King Ahasuerus' tribute which he laid upon the people of the Persian empire, and we have seen the king's advancement of Mordecai which was written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Media and Persia. In verse three of chapter ten which is our final verse of the book, we see how Mordecai was promoted in the Persian kingdom and his care for the Jewish people. We read:

For Mordecai the Jew was next unto king Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews, and accepted of the multitude of his brethren, seeking the wealth of his people, and speaking peace to all his seed.

The verse begins, “For Mordecai the Jew was next unto king Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews,and accepted of the multitude of his brethren,...” Three of the final characteristics of Mordecai are mentioned in this part of the verse: He “was next to unto king Ahasuerus; great among the Jews; and accepted of the multitude of his brethren”. As we consider these components of Mordecai's life, we cannot help but consider from where he came. From the humble man who sat at the king's palace gate, Mordecai was now second in command under him. Because of his intercession both spiritually and practically, the Jews considered him great, and those who knew him accepted him for the great man that he was. Because of God working through Mordecai, the Jews' very lives had been saved.

The verse continues, “...seeking the wealth of his people, and speaking peace to all his seed.” Herein lies the reason that Mordecai became so advanced and accepted of both the king and his people. Rather than simply seek his own wealth, Mordecai sought the “wealth of his people”, and when he could have been settled in a position of peace for himself and Esther, he promoted the idea of peace to all the Jews. In other words, Mordecai was an others centered person. Though he personally benefited by his actions, his focus was upon “his people” and “to all his seed”.

After reading the accounts recorded in the book of Esther, we might have wondered why the book wasn't called “Mordecai”. It was Mordecai who took Esther in as a child when her parents were dead, and it was Mordecai who suggested her entry into the contest for a new queen. Mordecai appealed to Esther to make intercession for her people and told her that she may have been put in her position “for such a time as this”. Mordecai also led an empire-wide fast for Esther before she went before the king unannounced, and Mordecai told her what to say. Mordecai also inspired the law of defense for the Jews over Haman's first law which would have destroyed them, and suggested that letters be sent out to notify the Jews everywhere of their ability to defend. In other words, God used Mordecai greatly throughout this book, and yet the book is called “Esther”. Many believe that Mordecai wrote the account of the events in this book, and by this final verse we may have discovered one of the reasons it received the name “Esther” instead of Mordecai. Mordecai had his primary focus upon God and others, and where he might have had opportunity to advance himself, he rather advanced others instead. As we ponder the final words of this wonderful book, perhaps we too will be inspired to be like Mordecai and seek the advancement of others rather than ourselves. Deferment of our personal advancement must be left in the hands of God Almighty, and with Mordecai as our inspiration, we can put our promotions in no greater place.

Next time we will begin a new book called Second Peter, 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 Greatness of Mordecai Esther 10:2 - Equipped for Battle

Once the days of Purim were set as an annual celebration for the Jews, King Ahasuerus continued his duties as ruler over the Persian empire. We learned that he set a tribute over all the land and islands throughout the kingdom, however, we may wonder, what happened to Mordecai? In chapter ten and verse two we see the first of the final two verses of the book of Esther that tell of Mordecai's continuance. We read:

And all the acts of his power and of his might, and the declaration of the greatness of Mordecai, whereunto the king advanced him, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Media and Persia?

The verse begins, “And all the acts of his power and of his might, and the declaration of the greatness of Mordecai,” Let's notice first the word “all”. From the point when Mordecai was elevated to the position of second in command within the kingdom, his “acts of power” and “his might” were recorded. We may remember the humble beginnings from which Mordecai came. He was exiled to the Persian empire when they conquered his homeland. He cared for his younger cousin Esther when her parents died, and he positioned her in the beauty contest held by King Ahasuerus when the king needed a new queen. He would not bow to wicked Haman though there was great pressures to do so, and when he heard of the plot to destroy the Jews, not only did he appeal to Esther that she might be called “for such a time as this” but also fasted and sat in ashes and sackcloth as he prayed for God's deliverance. “The declaration of the greatness of Mordecai” was known throughout the Persian empire because of his willingness and commitment to be used by God as His instrument of intercession.

The verse goes on to say, “whereunto the king advanced him, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Media and Persia?” Because of Mordecai's acts of power, might and declaration of greatness, the king “advanced him” which put him in a prime position to save his people. When Mordecai became the second in command in the kingdom, he had influence, and he used it along with Queen Esther to establish the law of defense that allowed Jews to take up arms against any who would attempt to harm them. These great feats and exploits of Mordecai were written “in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Media and Persia”, and though the verse ends with a question mark, it is indeed a rhetorical question that can be answered with an emphatic “YES”.

If someone were to write about our lives, what would they say about us? Would the actions and attitudes we display every day be ones worth writing about? Would our daily deeds be considered “acts of power and might” and would there be “declarations of the greatness” of us should one pay attention to us? Perhaps as we consider this verse and the point from which Mordecai originated we will be influenced by his early actions which were done while he was not in a position of advancement. Mordecai was faithful to his God, his family, and he prayed in humility when things were going rough. He would not bow to social pressures when they went against his relationship with God, and though he may pay a price, he was willing to risk it all for his fellowship with the Almighty. May the Lord Jesus help us to be inspired by the life of Mordecai, and may the journals of our lives be marked in the measure in which Mordecai's was.

Next time we will finish the book of Esther and see the final assessment of Mordecai, 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

King Ahasuerus' Tribute Esther 10:1 - Equipped for Battle

The days of Purim were set, and the Jews all over the Persian empire would set aside these two days as a celebration and remembrance of the mighty delivering power of God. What would be next in the kingdom, and how would this wonderful story end? In chapter ten, our final chapter in the book of Esther, we learn more about King Ahasuerus' reign where we read:

And the king Ahasuerus laid a tribute upon the land, and upon the isles of the sea.

The verse begins, “And the king Ahasuerus laid a tribute upon the land,...” At first glance we might see this act as a form of taxation or exacting from the people, and it could have been. However, the word “tribute” is the Hebrew word “mac” and is pronounced like “mass”. It means a “gang or body of forced laborers, task-workers, labor band or gang, forced service, task-work, serfdom, tributary, tribute, levy, taskmasters, discomfited”. In other words King Ahasuerus either taxed the people or forced servants to be upon the land. We might remember that five hundred of those serving in the palace of Shushan were destroyed by the Jews when they defended themselves never mind those who were killed all over the kingdom. Nonetheless, the king felt it necessary to either tax the people or build a labor force throughout his kingdom.

The verse goes on to say, “...and upon the isles of the sea.” The land was not the only territory over which the king of Persia reigned. He also reigned over the isles or islands of the seas. In each of these areas he mandated these taxes or servants to be arranged. There was nowhere throughout the kingdom where the king's mighty hand was not felt.

Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. One of the great lessons within the book of Esther is the overriding presence of the power that is involved. At one point, Haman thought himself powerful, and he was able to convince the king to agree to a law destroying the Jews. However, he underestimated the power of God who had a plan for Queen Esther to not only demonstrate her power, but also show the power of the Almighty. When King Ahasuerus laid this tribute upon the land and isles of the seas of the Persian empire, he demonstrated his power and enforced it. As we ponder this verse, perhaps our thoughts will be directed toward those things in life over which we have been given reign. Maybe it is a position of government, or it may be within our family. It might be as an employer or boss over a few or many people. Whatever that position may be, we would do well to remember that all power and positions of power come from God Almighty, and there is none who compares in power to Him.

Next time we will discover where the acts of Ahasuerus were written, 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

Written in a Book Esther 9:32 - Equipped for Battle

The Jews within the one hundred and twenty-seven provinces of the empire of Persia were notified of the annual celebration of Purim. Queen Esther and her cousin Mordecai insured that all of them would know the importance of remembering the days when God delivered them from their enemies, and this yearly feasting time would perpetuate the recalling of their victories even when some desired their demise. In chapter nine and verse thirty two we see the long lasting affect this story has as it was written in a book. We read:

And the decree of Esther confirmed these matters of Purim; and it was written in the book.

The verse begins, “And the decree of Esther confirmed these matters of Purim;” At one point in our story we remember when Esther was noted only as a child who was exiled to a new land with her older cousin Mordecai. Her parents were dead, and Mordecai took care of her as they traveled to their new land. Her experience must have been tragic at the time, however, little did she know that she was going to be used in a mighty plan of God to save the entire Jewish nation. It was “Esther” who was placed in the position of importance who would confirm the decree of the days of Purim. All the while she was in her state of sadness in her early days, God knew that she would be the vessel He used to carry out His mighty plan.

The verse goes on to say, “and it was written in the book.” Our time of study in the book called “Esther” within the Bible is because they wrote this story “in the book”. Those who were in charge of writing the historical facts have given us a beautiful compilation of the threats, the emotions, the spiritual workings, and the victorious defense of the Jews. Because they wrote these words, we have the benefit of not only knowing the story of Queen Esther, Mordecai and the Jews, but we have the encouragement that since God worked in their lives, surely He is at work in ours as well.

Writing God stories whether it be in a book or short pages will not only encourage us, but it may be used by God to encourage others. This book was written some four hundred plus years B.C, and although it is almost twenty-five hundred years old, it still has an impact upon us today. Who knows the value that writing our “God stories” will have upon others. Perhaps as we consider how we have been benefited by this wonderful story we too will begin to put words on a page. One thing is for sure, God's ways through the recorded words penetrated our lives as we have enjoyed this story- To God be the Glory, great things He has done.

Next time we will begin the final chapter of Esther and learn more about King Ahasuerus' reign, 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 Matters of the Fastings and Their Cry Esther 9:31 - Equipped for Battle

The second letter concerning the celebration of the days of Purim was written by Queen Esther and Mordecai and distributed throughout the Persian empire. In chapter nine and verse thirty one we see how the words of peace and truth within this letter were written to affect the Jews who were previously in a state of crying and fasting. We read:

To confirm these days of Purim in their times appointed, according as Mordecai the Jew and Esther the queen had enjoined them, and as they had decreed for themselves and for their seed, the matters of the fastings and their cry.

The verse begins, “To confirm these days of Purim in their times appointed, according as Mordecai the Jew and Esther the queen had enjoined them,...” This second letter was sent to “confirm these days of Purim” which means this letter was to “establish, fix, validate, prove and fulfill” this date. The Jews were to have this time of feasting “fixed” in their minds, and they were to “persist” in the celebration of it. Both Queen Esther and Mordecai “raised, set up, roused and persuaded them” to continue in these yearly celebrations.

The verse goes on to say, “and as they had decreed for themselves and for their seed, the matters of the fastings and their cry.” Both Queen Esther and Mordecai were involved in this time of victory. They knew the importance of letting Jewish people know what God did for them. Not only would they themselves benefit from this annual celebration, those who were born after them would be blessed as well. The Jews were once in a time of “fastings” and calling out to God with “their cry”, and now they were experiencing the power of the Almighty God. Purim would remind them of not only this delivering power of God, but the keeping power of God as well.

Have we ever stopped to consider the keeping power of God? Do we realize the value of having God watch over us daily even if we are in the times of “fastings” and “cry”? When we consider how many references in these last few verses of chapter nine there are to the annual time of feasting called Purim, we might wonder why it seems to have been written over and over again. For we who desire to hear the voice of God in our lives, we note that when the message seems redundant we should pay particular attention. Rather than see it as rote, if we ponder it long enough we will hear the mighty voice of God saying, “I'm with you. Don't forget me. I'm with you. Don't forget me. I'm with you. Don't forget me.” And when we hear Him speak, we would do well to not only hear, but also obey even if we are fasting and crying about the circumstances in our lives right now.

Next time we will end the ninth chapter of Esther and note how it was written, 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

Words of Peace and Truth Esther 9:30 - Equipped for Battle

Because the time of celebration and remembrance called Purim was so important to the Jews, Queen Esther and Mordecai wrote two letters of notification to tell everyone about it. In chapter nine and verse thirty we are once again told of the widespread proclamation and the manner in which these letters were written. We read:

And he sent the letters unto all the Jews, to the hundred twenty and seven provinces of the kingdom of Ahasuerus, with words of peace and truth,

The verse begins, “And he sent the letters unto all the Jews, to the hundred twenty and seven provinces of the kingdom of Ahasuerus,...” We have noted previously the importance of the Jews remembering these days of Purim, and once again we see letters sent to all of them. Though the Jews were scattered over the one hundred and twenty-seven provinces of King Ahasurus' kingdom, none of them were to be forgotten in this notification. In other words, every Jew, every where was to know about these days of celebration as they commemorated the victory the Lord provided over their enemies.

The verse goes on to say, “with words of peace and truth,” Let's notice the manner in which this second letter was written. First, the letter was written with words of “peace”. This word means, “completeness, soundness, welfare, health and prosperity”. It speaks of “quietness, tranquility, and contentment” especially in relationships with God and humans. This letter was also written with words of “truth” which means “firmness, faithfulness, sureness, reliability, stability and continuance”.

The Jews experienced times where their lives were threatened, they were given hope to defend themselves, and they won victories over their foes. “Peace” and “truth” were welcomed words along with this notification to celebrate the annual feast of Purim.

When we think about the Jews receiving these letters, we might understand how peace and truth are important to us as well. Many times when we go through difficult situations, “peace” is the last thing on our minds. Worry and fear often accompany us as we endure troubles, and when “peace” comes, we have rest in our souls. “Truth” is also important to us. As long as we abide in an infringement of falsehood, we have a tendency to be deceived, but when we know the “truth”, as Jesus said, “the “truth” will set us free”. Perhaps as we ponder this verse we will question whether we have the “truth” and “peace” of God in our circumstances. If we do, wonderful, but if we do not, maybe we should use this second letter to the Jews as a reminder that God desires His “peace” and “truth” for us well.

Next time we will the Jews confirmation of the days of Purim, 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

This Second Letter of Purim Esther 9:29 - Equipped for Battle

The days of Purim have been set and agreed upon by the Jews who were spread all over the Persian empire. These two days of celebration would commemorate the time when God delivered them from their enemies, and their festivities would help future generations to know the mighty power of God. In chapter nine and verse twenty-nine we see the agreement between Queen Esther and Mordecai as they write yet another letter to confirm this annual celebration. We read:

Then Esther the queen, the daughter of Abihail, and Mordecai the Jew, wrote with all authority, to confirm this second letter of Purim.

The verse begins, “Then Esther the queen, the daughter of Abihail, and Mordecai the Jew,...” As a confirmation and reminder the author of the book of Esther tells us once again who was involved in the process of promoting the days of Purim. As though we needed reminding, “Esther the queen” and “Mordecai the Jew” are listed for us once again, and the importance of knowing their involvement is surely noted for not only those who knew them personally, but also for we and others who would only know them by these writings.

The verse goes on to say, “wrote with all authority, to confirm this second letter of Purim.” Notice once again the reference to Queen Esther and Mordecai writing “with all authority”. In other words they were fully commissioned by those in power, mainly King Ahasuerus, to send letters that would call for the yearly celebration of Purim. Lest there be any doubt concerning their jurisdiction over this annual feast, Queen Esther and Mordecai are mentioned as the principles from which a second letter was constructed. As time proceeded, references to the written law of the Persians and Jews would name these two as the ones with the ability and power to call for such a feast.

Some events are so important in our lives that they are worth repeating over and over again. We tend to forget over time, and with repetitious reminders we continue to be aware of historical events. When it concerns the intervention of God in our lives, constant reminders of His care in the past become stimulants for hope in present situations. Though repetition may seem redundant at times, God's word through the Bible over and over again helps us to be reminded that He will never leave us nor forsake us. As we see His reminders in the scriptures we should have these thoughts in our minds, “God loves me. God loves me. God loves me.”

Next time we will look at the manner in which these letter were sent out, 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

Remembering the Days Esther 9:28 - Equipped for Battle

The victory was won. The festivities began, and the time of annual celebration was set for the Jews called Purim. Still there needed to be assurance that this time of remembrance would be followed throughout future generations. In chapter nine and verse twenty-eight we see yet another assurance that these days of Purim will be kept. We read:

And that these days should be remembered and kept throughout every generation, every family, every province, and every city; and that these days of Purim should not fail from among the Jews, nor the memorial of them perish from their seed.

The verse begins, “And that these days should be remembered and kept throughout every generation, every family, every province, and every city;” Mordecai desired that every Jew throughout the Persian empire keep these days of observance. He knew the importance that every generation, family, province and city remember from what the Lord delivered them. By keeping these yearly days of celebration, all Jews would know about the mighty hand of God who rescued them from their foes.

The verse continues, “and that these days of Purim should not fail from among the Jews, nor the memorial of them perish from their seed.” Mordecai knew how easily it was to forget times when God intervened in their lives, so he instituted this annual celebration called Purim. By observing these days, the Jews would recall and review the time when wicked Haman desired to eliminate them. These days “would not fail” or “not pass over” the Jews without reminiscing and recounting the mighty deliverance God provided for them. The memory of God's deliverance was to be passed from children to grand-children, to great grand-children, and so on.

Special days of observance and memorial days are good to remind us of events from the past. We are prone to only continue in what we are experiencing at the moment rather than think about what allowed us to be in this moment. When God intervenes in our lives it is good to have days of remembrance that may be passed on to present and future generations. Days such as these will help us and our prodigy to recall how God prevailed in our circumstances in the past, and His actions then give us hope for His intervention in the future. As we ponder the repeated importance of these days of Purim, perhaps we too will see the value in setting days of remembrance that will leave a legacy to those who come behind us.

Next time we will see Esther and Mordecai wrote a second letter to confirm Purim, 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