Esther 6-8
I wonder who kept King Ahasuerus from sleeping and brought to his mind the chronicles for nighttime reading. I think I can guess.
Our God has a way of getting the job done. While the king reads the books, he happens to notice that Mordecai had never been rewarded for saving his life. What a terrific time for him to notice! Just when the awareness is needed.
So Haman’s own plans turn on him. The honor he plans for himself goes to Mordecai, and the gallows he plans for Mordecai is where Haman winds up. There is a proverb which states, “The righteousness of the blameless will smooth his way. But the wicked will fall by his own wickedness.” (Prov. 11:5). I think we are seeing this in action.
If you are facing some unjust issues, I would suggest that you really turn to God. Spend time with Him in prayer and reading the Word. He will guide you and He will take care of the problem for you.
There have been many times when I have faced problems which seemed insurmountable in the natural. As I would take the case to God, I would gain greater understanding and often some direction. In a couple of cases, He would show me that I was harboring unforgiveness toward those people. of course, i would have to let that go. Then he has ordered my steps.
The most exciting part, however, has been the times when I would see God at work – in a way that was impossible for me. he can get inside of hearts – with dreams, sending the right people across a path, having “just the right” TV programs come on the air. I have seen Him work in so many ways.
Our God is a God we can trust. If we do our part, honoring Him with our obedience, we will see His work on our behalf.
Acts 6
Stephen is a testimony to all of the lay people out there who want to walk in closeness with God. Sometimes people get the wrong impression that certain levels of closeness are only for the ministers. Stephen proves that idea to be wrong.
Stephen is a server. His job in the church is to serve the widows their meals. In fact, he is doing this so that the apostles are not burdened with anything but prayer and ministry of the word. So many might get the idea that Stephen isn’t that “spiritual.”
Wrong. Stephen is full of grace and power, and performing great wonders and signs among the people. (V. 8) When the religious leaders try to argue with Stephen, they are “unable to cope with the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking.” (V.10)
Stephen is a sign to us, that we need to take the wraps off of our relationship with God. We don’t have to be timid or afraid that we aren’t valuable enough. God loves us all, and he wants our lives to be productive. Just as Stephen is shown with great wisdom, signs, and wonders, we can expect to the same.
Very few people, even good Christians, reach for God’s highest plan. It takes focus, energy, and fortitude to have that level of relationship with our Creator. But that relationship is available.
As we proceed with the New Testament, we will see more examples. Are you ready for the challenge?
