“The end of a thing is better than its beginning; the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit” (Eccl 7:8). Often hard beginnings lead to good ends; small seeds can grow into fruitful trees. Proud spirits like glory from the start; patient spirits are content with slow, steady progress in God’s will. […]
“How unsearchable are His judgments…and how unfathomable and untraceable are His ways! ” (Rom 11:33, AMP). While the selection process unfolded in the palace, Mordecai has been occupied with more than pacing “in front of the court of the women’s quarters, to learn of Esther’s welfare” (Est 2:11). With his ear tuned to hear any news from the […]
“We also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope” (Rom 4:3-4). You may have heard it said that problems are opportunities in work clothes. Paul points out that your troubles today could strengthen your resolve, refine your character, and feed your hope! […]
Cinderella has nothing on Esther. This young woman will change the whole course of history! As the king scanned the bevy of beauties gathered for his appraisal at his winter palace in Shushan (Susa), one young lady stood out from the crowd. “Now the young woman pleased him, and she obtained his favor” (Est 2:9). What was […]
“This is a faithful saying: for if we died with Him, we shall also live with Him. If we endure, we shall also reign with Him…” (2 Tim 2:11-12). Today we’re training for reigning. “Endure” means “to stay under.” Heirs to the kingdom at present are being trained by the Spirit to be governors—of their […]
Parties and drinking and divorce and beauty contests and murder plots and…God turned it to good? Seven days of partying, one drink-fueled whim, followed by one brash decision. “After these things, when the wrath of King Ahasuerus subsided, he remembered Vashti, what she had done, and what had been decreed against her” (Est 2:1). History is replete […]
No one to encourage you? With all the tools provided for the believer to face life’s challenges, David tells us the one he found essential when he seemed to be working solo. […]
“…Aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing” (1 Thess 4:11-12). You can’t build a good testimony from what you are going to do. So, […]
“Love is patient and kind;…it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way” (1 Cor 13:4-5, ESV). The garden party had been going on for a week. On the last day of the feast, Ahasuerus gave proof that another king was right when he wrote, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is […]