“…and, behind the dim unknown, Standeth God within the shadow, keeping watch above His own” —J.R.L. Have we been noticing the story behind the story? Is it possible that this is a prototype of a much bigger plot and far greater victory? As noted earlier, there are just two Bible books named after women: Ruth […]
Their house had burned to the ground. They were living in a shack. They had every reason NOT to invite us for lunch. But they couldn’t help themselves. […]
“The tongue destroys a greater horde,” The Turk asserts, “than does the sword” (P.B. Strong). Do you recall how Haman spoke about the Jewish people in such a way that they were put in the worst possible light? They’re different, he said. And they’re everywhere. And so on. It’s like saying, “He’s a good brother, […]
“You are in for trouble,…if you think what you do in the dark can’t be seen” (Isa 29:15, CEV). Haman is a very different man as he slouches his way home after his humiliating experience, leading Mordecai in honor through the city streets. Mortified by Mordecai! “Haman hurried to his house, mourning and with his head covered” (Est […]
A man hated and slated to die—but now riding in kingly honor. This reminds me of Someone! “What shall be done for the man whom the king delights to honor?” (Est 6:6). Thinking that he personally is the subject of the king’s desire—what narcissist wouldn’t?—Haman waxes eloquent. Go into the royal wardrobe and pick out some […]
Do you find yourself at a point in life when you have nothing but God? Then you’re right where He wants you. […]
Let me confess: It takes great restraint not to put exclamation points after every sentence! See! Timing is so crucial, and “As for God, His way is perfect” (Ps 18:30). Something seismic certainly had to happen between Esther’s Banquet 1 and Banquet 2 to turn the tide of human history. What REALLY BIG THING was God going […]
“The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish pulls it down with her hands” (Prov 14:1). I hardly think “the Ahasuerus who reigned over one hundred and twenty-seven provinces” (Est 1:1) liked having his buttons pushed. You remember his other wife, Vashti, disagreed once, and she was gone. Esther had defied convention by appearing in his presence […]
We worship a big God who has commissioned His people to do a big work. Jesus said, “Go into ALL the world and preach the gospel to EVERY creature.” (Mark 16:15) Can’t get much bigger than that! And yet… The Lord delights in small things, too. After all, He made the whole universe from nothing, […]