In Chapter 9, we see the carrying out of the edicts of the king. The Jews all over the kingdom banded together to take preemptive action against those who were their enemies. (That is an interesting thought isn't it...preemptive self-defense measures?)
Let's consider though how this came about. Those who had intended to destroy the Jews according to the edict brought about by Haman had likely been torturing the Jews in their areas. The "redneck" in me can hear them saying, "5 more days and we are going to be living in your house." For weeks, the Jews lived in fear of what could come. They had no one to rely on but God...because even the government had turned in favor of their enemies...insuring that their enemies would be rewarded financially for destroying the Jews.
So, once the edict brought about by Esther and Mordecai came into being, the Jews were given a ray of hope. If the stood together (HEY... THAT IS A KEY POINT) then they were a formidable force that brought fear upon any of their enemies. Not only did the Jews stand together, but the government authorities stood with them (because Mordecai was their boss now).
In all, 75,000 enemies of the Jews were killed. Notice though another observation. The Jews took none of the plunder (v.10,15,16.) Additionally, Esther requested a one day extension to the edict for the purpose of carrying out justice against the rest of Haman's sons. On the 14th of Adar, Haman's 10 sons were hanged. [Now just in case you are thinking like a Westerner and consider this cruel...in the Eastern mindset of the day...the clan mentality was very active. The members of the clan would avenge one another until all were dead or until they succeeded.] These actions are consistent with God's instructions to utterly destroy the enemies...because to allow some to survive meant that they would become trouble later.
That serves as a good final application to this chapter.
When God calls us to purify ourselves (the yielding on our part to the conviction and purifying work of the Holy Spirit in our lives), He wants us to utterly destroy those things that are not of God. Ridding ourselves of most of our sin is not sufficient. Think of your own experiences. For me, when I leave a little sin...it always comes back to haunt me. Whether it is a relationship sin, a lack of faith sin, or a refusal to repent...be sure that your sins will ultimately come back to get you.
God's holiness demands a swift, violent, and complete annihilation of sin. This is not at all what "tolerance" looks like in our culture today. God HATES sin and HATES what sin does to you and me. Sin defeats, demoralizes, and ultimately destroys. Sin is such an offense to God that its commission demands death for the violator. Yet, God's love and mercy desires that the violator have a relationship with Him. So, Christ came and stood in our place to receive our death sentence...so that both aspects of God's character would be addressed. God reacted swiftly, violently, and completely against our sin...in His own Son, so that by receiving what Christ did, we would be restored to God. What a story.
Now if God feels so strongly about sin...and has worked so completely to destroy it and its power over us...why would we not utterly destroy all of it in our lives? All reasons fall short.
The rest of the chapter (v.20 and following) detail the establishment of the Feast of Purim. A Feast was a commemorative time in the Jewish calendar to remember something that God had done. Purim was a celebrative feast of grace (sharing food and goods) towards others (v.22). This feast was established as a reminder of how God turned a tragedy into a victory and ultimately cared for His people...through a humble, orphaned Jewish girl who became queen, through a wise and committed Jewish man who became #2 in the land, and through a king who ultimately did the right thing and was instrumental in God's plan. Ch 10 records that King A. was accomplished in all he did.
A final note: I shared with you in the beginning that this book was unique in OT Scripture. Here is why. Never is God mentioned. We know that the work done was done by God. We know that the fasting and praying was done before God. Yet, never is the covenant of God mentioned. You can draw your own conclusions as to why...but the fact is...God preserved this book as Holy Scripture so that we could see and hear what He had done on behalf of His people...even when His Name was not mentioned. Grace? Yes.
Proverbs 6:23-24 is the takeaway today. "For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching is light; and reproofs for discipline are the way of life to keep you from the evil woman, from the smooth tongue of the adultress." Knowing and understanding the Word of God is the key to recognizing the lies of sin and the temptation fo the enemy. The more we know and understand about our God, the more we recognize and reject the lies of the enemy...thus enjoying life abundant and glorifying God.
Grace,
Showing posts with label Esther. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Esther. Show all posts
Monday, October 06, 2008
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Take Two: Esther 8, Proverbs 5
In Chapter 8, we see that the king went further in "righting" what Haman had done. He promoted Mordecai from a nobody...to Haman's position. The king gave Mordecai the signet ring (authority), royal attire (honor), even gave him Haman's home and possessions (justice).
Esther stood again before the king and begged for him to reverse the order to destroy the Jews. The king was in a tough spot. Once an edict was passed, it was irreversible. He could not repeal the law...so he allowed Mordecai and Esther to pass any measure they thought necessary in the king's name to save the Jews. In essence, the authority was given to the Jews to have a legal rebellion and to assemble together for the purpose of their own defense on the 13th day of Adar. The Jews were given authority to destroy any and all of the armies of those who might come against them...and to plunder their goods (the spoils of war).
The king could not reverse his edict...so he did the next best thing. He made it legal to destroy anyone trying to enforce it. It would seem that all is made right in the plight of the Jews. Even Mordecai is cheered as he leaves the king's presence for he and Esther have delivered their people. At least POSITIONALLY. Tomorrow, we will see that there is still work to do since the enemy of the Jews will attack and they will have to fight. That is really a strong point of comparison for us as believers today.
The king has issued an edict that we are free from slavery, from the power of sin, and that "in Him" we have overcome the enemy. Yet, we still struggle and strive to own POSSESSIONALLY what has been decreed POSITIONALLY. More to come.
Proverbs 5:15 is the takeaway. "Drink water from your own cistern and fresh water from your own well." The context here is a father's instruction to his son and it occurs on two levels. First, it speaks metaphorically of avoiding temptation to sin because sin is spiritual adultery. He tells his son to flee from it (v.8) because its end is suffering and destruction.
There is also a practical instruction which is very applicable. The father instructs the son to stay away from temptation to sin against his marriage covenant. You may ask, "How can you know that this is not just another metaphorical application?" Simply put: the metaphor only has impact if it connects at a real part of the son's life. If the temptation to sin against his wife were not real, the spiritual adultery would make no sense to him; but since it was real...the message hits home.
As we apply the proverb it is useful to note that we often get into trouble "wanting" what others have...thinking that the grass is "greener" on the other side. The fact is...if it is greener...it is due to being planted over the septic tank. (ok...enought potty humor). I counsel people often who think that everyone else's marriage is better than their own...and that they somehow could do better if they started over.
NEWSFLASH: Most marriages look good from the outside. It is when you get on the inside that you discover that all marriages are messy because they involve two messy people trying to live as one.
Marriages don't really begin to flourish until both parties decide to work as partners with one another. When spouses stop worrying about their own needs and give themselves over to fulfilling their mate's needs...then the whole thing becomes incredible. Until them...it is a constant tug-of-war (at least internally) to see who can care for him/herself more. The same could maybe be said of our vocational choices, our family situations, and other areas. Oh, that we could learn to think as Paul when he said he had learned to become content in whatever place he found himself.
Grace,
Esther stood again before the king and begged for him to reverse the order to destroy the Jews. The king was in a tough spot. Once an edict was passed, it was irreversible. He could not repeal the law...so he allowed Mordecai and Esther to pass any measure they thought necessary in the king's name to save the Jews. In essence, the authority was given to the Jews to have a legal rebellion and to assemble together for the purpose of their own defense on the 13th day of Adar. The Jews were given authority to destroy any and all of the armies of those who might come against them...and to plunder their goods (the spoils of war).
The king could not reverse his edict...so he did the next best thing. He made it legal to destroy anyone trying to enforce it. It would seem that all is made right in the plight of the Jews. Even Mordecai is cheered as he leaves the king's presence for he and Esther have delivered their people. At least POSITIONALLY. Tomorrow, we will see that there is still work to do since the enemy of the Jews will attack and they will have to fight. That is really a strong point of comparison for us as believers today.
The king has issued an edict that we are free from slavery, from the power of sin, and that "in Him" we have overcome the enemy. Yet, we still struggle and strive to own POSSESSIONALLY what has been decreed POSITIONALLY. More to come.
Proverbs 5:15 is the takeaway. "Drink water from your own cistern and fresh water from your own well." The context here is a father's instruction to his son and it occurs on two levels. First, it speaks metaphorically of avoiding temptation to sin because sin is spiritual adultery. He tells his son to flee from it (v.8) because its end is suffering and destruction.
There is also a practical instruction which is very applicable. The father instructs the son to stay away from temptation to sin against his marriage covenant. You may ask, "How can you know that this is not just another metaphorical application?" Simply put: the metaphor only has impact if it connects at a real part of the son's life. If the temptation to sin against his wife were not real, the spiritual adultery would make no sense to him; but since it was real...the message hits home.
As we apply the proverb it is useful to note that we often get into trouble "wanting" what others have...thinking that the grass is "greener" on the other side. The fact is...if it is greener...it is due to being planted over the septic tank. (ok...enought potty humor). I counsel people often who think that everyone else's marriage is better than their own...and that they somehow could do better if they started over.
NEWSFLASH: Most marriages look good from the outside. It is when you get on the inside that you discover that all marriages are messy because they involve two messy people trying to live as one.
Marriages don't really begin to flourish until both parties decide to work as partners with one another. When spouses stop worrying about their own needs and give themselves over to fulfilling their mate's needs...then the whole thing becomes incredible. Until them...it is a constant tug-of-war (at least internally) to see who can care for him/herself more. The same could maybe be said of our vocational choices, our family situations, and other areas. Oh, that we could learn to think as Paul when he said he had learned to become content in whatever place he found himself.
Grace,
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Take Two: Esther 7, Proverbs 4
Chapter 7 is the climax of the story of the plight of Esther and her people. At the second banquet that Esther threw for her husband, the king, and Haman, she is once again asked by her husband what she requests. The moment of truth is upon her. In front of her is the king who has decreed to kill her (unknowingly) and her people, as well as the man who tricked the king (Haman)... hanging (no pun intended) on every word.
Esther swallows hard and asks for her life and the lives of her people. She says that she would not even trouble the king if her fate and that of her people were slavery...but to annihilate them was more than she could bear. The king is infuriated. He realizes that Haman has violated the trust given him. He realizes that Haman has set in motion the events that will cost him another queen. The king storms out and Haman begins to beg for his life. Esther is not to be swayed to the point that Haman gets in her face (v.8) just as the king steps back in. Well, it's "curtains" for him. The king orders Haman to be hanged on the gallows prepared for Mordecai.
A couple of observations are appropriate. Haman allowed his own anger and pride to become driving forces in his life. He spent too much time thinking about how cool he was...and ultimately came to believe that he was a "self-made" man. He had become comfortable manipulating or "handling" the king. He had even digressed so far as to violating the trust of his office. Was God not gracious toward him? I think that He was. Haman was given opportunity to turn back from his plan. When the king honored Mordecai (just as Haman wanted him killed), Haman could/should have seen this as a warning and stepped back. He chose revenge over righteousness.
Esther's response is interesting to me. She could have declared all of the injustices of her past. She could have railed against Haman. She could have called the ACLU and asked for counsel. But... she simply asked for her life. She goes on to say that she would not have done so if the king's order had been to enslave the Jews. Only because the order was to annihilate...did she dare speak up to the king. A great deal of humility and courage was displayed by Esther. We can learn from her.
The king demonstrated too what happens when one does not take his office and its responsibilities seriously. He too had become lax in his administration. He had allowed Haman to have authority without accountability. He had made decisions while drunk (without the full faculties of his judgment). He, at this moment, realized that his actions were the source of much of his own pain. So...he does not moan about it. He turns around and begins to set things right. That begins with the judgment against Haman and continues (tomorrow.)
Proverbs 4:7 is the takeaway: "The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; and with all your acquiring, get understanding." Acquiring wisdom (as used here) means to gain information. Pursue the intellectual curiosity that is inherent in all of us. Don't accept the opinions of others as truth (necessarily); but, learn how things work. Then, apply what you learn (gain understanding.)
Grace,
Esther swallows hard and asks for her life and the lives of her people. She says that she would not even trouble the king if her fate and that of her people were slavery...but to annihilate them was more than she could bear. The king is infuriated. He realizes that Haman has violated the trust given him. He realizes that Haman has set in motion the events that will cost him another queen. The king storms out and Haman begins to beg for his life. Esther is not to be swayed to the point that Haman gets in her face (v.8) just as the king steps back in. Well, it's "curtains" for him. The king orders Haman to be hanged on the gallows prepared for Mordecai.
A couple of observations are appropriate. Haman allowed his own anger and pride to become driving forces in his life. He spent too much time thinking about how cool he was...and ultimately came to believe that he was a "self-made" man. He had become comfortable manipulating or "handling" the king. He had even digressed so far as to violating the trust of his office. Was God not gracious toward him? I think that He was. Haman was given opportunity to turn back from his plan. When the king honored Mordecai (just as Haman wanted him killed), Haman could/should have seen this as a warning and stepped back. He chose revenge over righteousness.
Esther's response is interesting to me. She could have declared all of the injustices of her past. She could have railed against Haman. She could have called the ACLU and asked for counsel. But... she simply asked for her life. She goes on to say that she would not have done so if the king's order had been to enslave the Jews. Only because the order was to annihilate...did she dare speak up to the king. A great deal of humility and courage was displayed by Esther. We can learn from her.
The king demonstrated too what happens when one does not take his office and its responsibilities seriously. He too had become lax in his administration. He had allowed Haman to have authority without accountability. He had made decisions while drunk (without the full faculties of his judgment). He, at this moment, realized that his actions were the source of much of his own pain. So...he does not moan about it. He turns around and begins to set things right. That begins with the judgment against Haman and continues (tomorrow.)
Proverbs 4:7 is the takeaway: "The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; and with all your acquiring, get understanding." Acquiring wisdom (as used here) means to gain information. Pursue the intellectual curiosity that is inherent in all of us. Don't accept the opinions of others as truth (necessarily); but, learn how things work. Then, apply what you learn (gain understanding.)
Grace,
Friday, October 03, 2008
Take Two: Esther 6, Proverbs 3
Chapter 6 is cool. In it, you see God move in such a way that only He can receive credit and you get a foretaste of Haman's unraveling.
During the night, the king becomes sleepless. To get over it, he calls for an aide to read to him from the royal journal. During the reading, the king is reminded of the plot to kill him and how Mordecai saved him. At the very moment he realizes that Mordecai has not yet been honored for his actions...Haman arrives...intending to ask for Mordecai to be hanged on his newly built gallows. (Pretty cool of God to interrupt the king's nap to watch out for his people).
The king asks Haman how a good man should be honored (and Haman--still full of himself, thinking this is about him) offers some over the top ways the king can honor a man. The king orders it done...and for Haman to do it. (YEA GOD!) Now Haman has to honor Mordecai publicly in the name of the king. Pretty tough to hang a man hours after you parade him through the street honoring him on behalf of the king.
When they are done, Mordecai goes back to the king's driveway and Haman goes home to call a staff meeting with his wife and friends again. They do a 180 on him and tell him it is futile to try to get back at Mordecai not...because the Jew, Mordecai, will be his demise. Before Haman can think too deeply, the king's servants come to whisk him away to Esther's banquet.
As I apply this, I am reminded of just how far God will go to work on behalf of His people in ways that we might miss unless we are careful. (Admittedly, I have to work at this if I am to ever get it right.)
Proverbs 3:27-28 are my takeaway today. "Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. Do not say to your neighbor, 'Go, and come back, and tomorrow I will give it,' when you have it with you."
This verse sticks out because of the burden of my heart and the message on Sunday. Sometimes we want to play it safe with our resources...because the future is uncertain to us. While it is uncertain to us, it is absolutely certain with God. As such, He tells us to trust Him and be used by Him in the moment and "just know" that He will meet our needs tomorrow.
Now I am certainly not one of those health and wealth preachers on TV, but I have learned through the years what to do in my own life when I struggle in this area. When things have gotten tight with Jodi and I (and there have been many times in 20 years of marriage)...we have learned to respond to the temptation to "hold back" on doing good with our last few dollars. We sow it in the Kingdom. On more than one occasion, we have wiped out our savings and chosen to have no security (by the world's standard) in order to demonstrate our trust of God to Him. He never failed us. He always met the need...restored what was sown...and carried us through. Why? Because we chose Him and to be used by Him rather than to operate according to our cautious nature, worldly wisdom, and fear.
Grace,
During the night, the king becomes sleepless. To get over it, he calls for an aide to read to him from the royal journal. During the reading, the king is reminded of the plot to kill him and how Mordecai saved him. At the very moment he realizes that Mordecai has not yet been honored for his actions...Haman arrives...intending to ask for Mordecai to be hanged on his newly built gallows. (Pretty cool of God to interrupt the king's nap to watch out for his people).
The king asks Haman how a good man should be honored (and Haman--still full of himself, thinking this is about him) offers some over the top ways the king can honor a man. The king orders it done...and for Haman to do it. (YEA GOD!) Now Haman has to honor Mordecai publicly in the name of the king. Pretty tough to hang a man hours after you parade him through the street honoring him on behalf of the king.
When they are done, Mordecai goes back to the king's driveway and Haman goes home to call a staff meeting with his wife and friends again. They do a 180 on him and tell him it is futile to try to get back at Mordecai not...because the Jew, Mordecai, will be his demise. Before Haman can think too deeply, the king's servants come to whisk him away to Esther's banquet.
As I apply this, I am reminded of just how far God will go to work on behalf of His people in ways that we might miss unless we are careful. (Admittedly, I have to work at this if I am to ever get it right.)
- Do we recognize God at work when we run late to an appointment and narrowly miss an accident in the intersection?
- Do we see God's hand when we get passed over for a promotion, right before a corporate realignment and our new position was eliminated?
- Do we grasp it when God allows us to go through "stuff" which prepares us to serve Him with greater intensity later? ONLY if we KNOW that God is absolutely in control, powerful and able...and trust that He is at work.
- Because God saw fit to allow a Jewish girl to make it through the process to become queen.
- Because God woke the king up and when he was being read a bedtime story from the chronicles...it just happened to be about Mordecai.
- Because God sent Haman at just the right moment to be the one who would escort Mordecai.
There is nothing that occurs that did so beyond God's grasp and power...and while it was difficult to see grace at work in Esther's life previously, God is making it clear now (with more to come) that he has not been asleep at the wheel. He is right on time...every time.
Proverbs 3:27-28 are my takeaway today. "Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. Do not say to your neighbor, 'Go, and come back, and tomorrow I will give it,' when you have it with you."
This verse sticks out because of the burden of my heart and the message on Sunday. Sometimes we want to play it safe with our resources...because the future is uncertain to us. While it is uncertain to us, it is absolutely certain with God. As such, He tells us to trust Him and be used by Him in the moment and "just know" that He will meet our needs tomorrow.
Now I am certainly not one of those health and wealth preachers on TV, but I have learned through the years what to do in my own life when I struggle in this area. When things have gotten tight with Jodi and I (and there have been many times in 20 years of marriage)...we have learned to respond to the temptation to "hold back" on doing good with our last few dollars. We sow it in the Kingdom. On more than one occasion, we have wiped out our savings and chosen to have no security (by the world's standard) in order to demonstrate our trust of God to Him. He never failed us. He always met the need...restored what was sown...and carried us through. Why? Because we chose Him and to be used by Him rather than to operate according to our cautious nature, worldly wisdom, and fear.
Grace,
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Take Two: Esther 5, Proverbs 2
In Chapter 5, we pick up the story again. Esther breaks her fast on the third day, dresses in her royal robes and goes to the king. Remember, it has been more than a month since the king had called for her, so I imagine she is a bit timid at this point. In fact, if my own experience informs me, she has been playing over every possible scenario in her mind about what could happen. I imagine that her fear meter is red-lined! Yet she goes. This is real courage. Courage is not what you do in absence of fear...it is what you do in the face of it. Esther displays courage and she displays character.
At any point along the way, she could have pulled the plug and gone on being the queen. To do so would mean that her people would be lost...but she would likely never have been discovered. She could have gone on just being the queen and avoided all risk. But she did not.
She appears before the king and he receives her and grants her in advance anything she wants, up to half of the kingdom. I am not sure why she didn't just ask for Haman's head in a basket at this point. It could have been fear...or it might have been the workings of a smart woman's mind...either way, it was certainly God's grace. She invited both Haman and the King to her banquet. They go and are blown away. The king offers her again anything she wants. She only asks that he and Haman come back tomorrow for another banquet and she will let him know then.
Haman leaves and goes home. He calls together his friends and family and has a "check me out and see how cool I am" meeting. He tells them of all that he has which should make him happy; however, the Mordecai issue haunts him. Haman's wife suggests that he build a gallows and get permission to hang Mordecai from them in the morning. Haman likes the idea and decides to proceed that way.
As we apply this...it would be good for us to admit that there is a Haman in all of us. We all wrestle with pride to some degree. Haman had forgotten that the same king that promoted him could have ignored him. He convinced himself that he was the master of his own destiny. Haman had more than enough "stuff" to make him content, yet he felt that one more thing would finally do it. We all see things that we think would be the key to our happiness. It may be a position, an achievement, a quality in a relationship. Yet, we do not consider that pursuing this element may cost us everything.
Proverbs 2:7b-8 is my takeaway: , "[The Lord] is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice, and He preserves the way of His godly ones."
The will of God always provides for protection and provision. When we yield to God without reservation, we place our future in His hands. God then assumes responsibility for our provision and our protection. Is there any more "certain" place to be than this one?
Grace,
At any point along the way, she could have pulled the plug and gone on being the queen. To do so would mean that her people would be lost...but she would likely never have been discovered. She could have gone on just being the queen and avoided all risk. But she did not.
She appears before the king and he receives her and grants her in advance anything she wants, up to half of the kingdom. I am not sure why she didn't just ask for Haman's head in a basket at this point. It could have been fear...or it might have been the workings of a smart woman's mind...either way, it was certainly God's grace. She invited both Haman and the King to her banquet. They go and are blown away. The king offers her again anything she wants. She only asks that he and Haman come back tomorrow for another banquet and she will let him know then.
Haman leaves and goes home. He calls together his friends and family and has a "check me out and see how cool I am" meeting. He tells them of all that he has which should make him happy; however, the Mordecai issue haunts him. Haman's wife suggests that he build a gallows and get permission to hang Mordecai from them in the morning. Haman likes the idea and decides to proceed that way.
As we apply this...it would be good for us to admit that there is a Haman in all of us. We all wrestle with pride to some degree. Haman had forgotten that the same king that promoted him could have ignored him. He convinced himself that he was the master of his own destiny. Haman had more than enough "stuff" to make him content, yet he felt that one more thing would finally do it. We all see things that we think would be the key to our happiness. It may be a position, an achievement, a quality in a relationship. Yet, we do not consider that pursuing this element may cost us everything.
Proverbs 2:7b-8 is my takeaway: , "[The Lord] is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice, and He preserves the way of His godly ones."
The will of God always provides for protection and provision. When we yield to God without reservation, we place our future in His hands. God then assumes responsibility for our provision and our protection. Is there any more "certain" place to be than this one?
Grace,
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
Take Two: Esther 4, Proverbs 1
In Esther 4, we see the response of Mordecai and all of the other Jews throughout the kingdom. They have just heard that they will be utterly annihilated in a few days by order of the king. Their response was prayer--fasting, weeping, sackcloth and ashes (v.1, v.3). Mordecai, took his sackcloth and went to the driveway of the king. He sat outside the gate and there he mourned.
(It is interesting to me that he went to the king's gate. The king had put out an order to exterminate him. Why not...the Bahamas? Many times, when we are faced with intense opposition, we choose a different path. Rarely do we walk up to the problem and begin to mourn and cry out to God in front of it.)
Esther hears of what is going on. She sends a messenger to Mordecai to get the scoop. Mordecai tells her about the edict and then tells her to go into the king's court and plead the case. She sends back a message and reminds him that if the king does not call for her, she could be sentenced to death for just showing up. Mordecai reminds her of a great truth that applies to us...even today, in v.13-14.
One cannot run from trouble. You cannot ignore your situation or past in hopes that it will go away. If trouble is coming...you either live daily in fear of being found by it...or you address it. He reminded her that perhaps all that she had gone through was to provide her with the opportunity to do something great on God's behalf. To do so, she would have to come clean about who she was (her past) and risk all she had (her royalty and her comforts that go with it.)
v.15-17 detail how she now called for Mordecai to ask for a fast for her. "Pray for me, because I will do it." She knew that the task was bigger than her...but with God's help...she would be willing to do it.
It is important to note in closing: she was not sure of the outcome...only her response. It was clear to her what she had to do. It might cost her life. It might not make a difference to the plight of the Jews. She only knew that at this point in time...she must act. And...she did. This is character. We are not responsible for outcomes, only for our actions in the present. She would do as she ought...and let God do as He wished.
Proverbs 1:10 is my takeaway. "My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent." It sounds like a simple statement....and the reason for that is-- it is. When tempted to sin, don't. Never compromise on God's Word. There will always be situations which draw on you to leave God's counsel and purpose and pursue self-sufficiency. Don't do it. Reject it. The end is destruction.
Grace,
(It is interesting to me that he went to the king's gate. The king had put out an order to exterminate him. Why not...the Bahamas? Many times, when we are faced with intense opposition, we choose a different path. Rarely do we walk up to the problem and begin to mourn and cry out to God in front of it.)
Esther hears of what is going on. She sends a messenger to Mordecai to get the scoop. Mordecai tells her about the edict and then tells her to go into the king's court and plead the case. She sends back a message and reminds him that if the king does not call for her, she could be sentenced to death for just showing up. Mordecai reminds her of a great truth that applies to us...even today, in v.13-14.
One cannot run from trouble. You cannot ignore your situation or past in hopes that it will go away. If trouble is coming...you either live daily in fear of being found by it...or you address it. He reminded her that perhaps all that she had gone through was to provide her with the opportunity to do something great on God's behalf. To do so, she would have to come clean about who she was (her past) and risk all she had (her royalty and her comforts that go with it.)
v.15-17 detail how she now called for Mordecai to ask for a fast for her. "Pray for me, because I will do it." She knew that the task was bigger than her...but with God's help...she would be willing to do it.
It is important to note in closing: she was not sure of the outcome...only her response. It was clear to her what she had to do. It might cost her life. It might not make a difference to the plight of the Jews. She only knew that at this point in time...she must act. And...she did. This is character. We are not responsible for outcomes, only for our actions in the present. She would do as she ought...and let God do as He wished.
Proverbs 1:10 is my takeaway. "My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent." It sounds like a simple statement....and the reason for that is-- it is. When tempted to sin, don't. Never compromise on God's Word. There will always be situations which draw on you to leave God's counsel and purpose and pursue self-sufficiency. Don't do it. Reject it. The end is destruction.
Grace,
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Take Two: Esther 3, Proverbs 30
Esther 3 helps to bring into focus what God is up to. Haman, a man in the king's service is promoted to chief executive of the kingdom. He functions as the number two man and oversees the day to day operations. He decides along the way that since he represents the king, that people should bow before him (again because he represents the king.)
POINT: Interesting isn't it that sometimes we (Christians) think that others should bow before us since we are with the King. We don't mean literally to bow...but that laws should be made in our favor, that tax-exemptions should be in our favor, that protection under civil laws should be in our favor. Haman had no right to the homage and consideration people gave him. We, likewise, have no right to any special considerations because we are Christians. Under our rules of law...we are entitled (as Christians) to the same treatment as others.
Mordecai (Esther's uncle) refuses to bow before Haman and Haman becomes infuriated (v.5). Haman is a shrewd leader though. Rather than looking "petty" by lopping off Mordecai's head, he bides his time. He then goes to the king and asks for permission to carry out a cleansing of the kingdom and eliminate a people group who do not worship the king. The king does not dig into the matter. He simply slips off his signet ring and give it to Haman to draw up the laws as he sees fit. (This is the equivalent of the President of the US giving his seal and signature to a cabinet member to carry out executive powers...without understanding what is to be done.)
In vv.12-14, we see the edict of Haman in the name of the king is being carried out and notifications are being made. Where is the king? Having a beer with Haman inside the palace pub (v.15).
POINT: Leaders can never delegate their responsibility. They can delegate the decision making, but the responsibility lies at their feet. The king simply rubber stamped Haman's request. He never questioned it because to him, Haman was a trusted leader. Haman manipulated the king and abused the trust given to him. He did not get his homage from Mordecai, so he decided to carry out genocide. All this is now possible because the king did nothing. Someone once said, "All this is required for evil to abound is for good men to sit by and do nothing."
While we as Christians have no right to expect special treatment because we are Christians, we still maintain a responsibility as Ambassadors of the King to live rightly and to fulfill our duties while here. Even if that means no tax exemption, no prayer time in schools, no Christmas trees on the lawn of City Hall...we are still called to stand for righteousness in our society. We cannot simply sit back and rubber stamp some goofy idea simply because a single "smart guy" says it is best. (Sounds like a commentary on the financial crisis of yesterday...doesn't it?)
One final observation: the drama with Esther is about to unfold and we are about to see why a good and just God would allow such tragedy to occur as He has allowed in Esther's life. Raised as an orphan by her uncle, then carted off into slavery to the king's harem...it would seem that this girl is getting the short end of the stick. Keep in mind though: While God is allowing this, He did not cause it. In fact, He protected her and gave her favor along the way...so that even in the midst of her trials, God gave her grace to stand. Now, having stood in God's grace (and by God's grace) He is about to use her to do something amazing. (Stay tuned...)
Proverbs 30:5-6 is my takeaway today. "Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Do not add to His words or He will reprove you, and you will be proved a liar."
The truth and reliability fo God's words are sure. Every one is tested and proven. We can rely on Him and in His promises. We are not to add to His words because when we do, they will be tested and prove to be unreliable. That undermines the confidence that is gained from relying on that which is true and tested.
POINT: Interesting isn't it that sometimes we (Christians) think that others should bow before us since we are with the King. We don't mean literally to bow...but that laws should be made in our favor, that tax-exemptions should be in our favor, that protection under civil laws should be in our favor. Haman had no right to the homage and consideration people gave him. We, likewise, have no right to any special considerations because we are Christians. Under our rules of law...we are entitled (as Christians) to the same treatment as others.
Mordecai (Esther's uncle) refuses to bow before Haman and Haman becomes infuriated (v.5). Haman is a shrewd leader though. Rather than looking "petty" by lopping off Mordecai's head, he bides his time. He then goes to the king and asks for permission to carry out a cleansing of the kingdom and eliminate a people group who do not worship the king. The king does not dig into the matter. He simply slips off his signet ring and give it to Haman to draw up the laws as he sees fit. (This is the equivalent of the President of the US giving his seal and signature to a cabinet member to carry out executive powers...without understanding what is to be done.)
In vv.12-14, we see the edict of Haman in the name of the king is being carried out and notifications are being made. Where is the king? Having a beer with Haman inside the palace pub (v.15).
POINT: Leaders can never delegate their responsibility. They can delegate the decision making, but the responsibility lies at their feet. The king simply rubber stamped Haman's request. He never questioned it because to him, Haman was a trusted leader. Haman manipulated the king and abused the trust given to him. He did not get his homage from Mordecai, so he decided to carry out genocide. All this is now possible because the king did nothing. Someone once said, "All this is required for evil to abound is for good men to sit by and do nothing."
While we as Christians have no right to expect special treatment because we are Christians, we still maintain a responsibility as Ambassadors of the King to live rightly and to fulfill our duties while here. Even if that means no tax exemption, no prayer time in schools, no Christmas trees on the lawn of City Hall...we are still called to stand for righteousness in our society. We cannot simply sit back and rubber stamp some goofy idea simply because a single "smart guy" says it is best. (Sounds like a commentary on the financial crisis of yesterday...doesn't it?)
One final observation: the drama with Esther is about to unfold and we are about to see why a good and just God would allow such tragedy to occur as He has allowed in Esther's life. Raised as an orphan by her uncle, then carted off into slavery to the king's harem...it would seem that this girl is getting the short end of the stick. Keep in mind though: While God is allowing this, He did not cause it. In fact, He protected her and gave her favor along the way...so that even in the midst of her trials, God gave her grace to stand. Now, having stood in God's grace (and by God's grace) He is about to use her to do something amazing. (Stay tuned...)
Proverbs 30:5-6 is my takeaway today. "Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Do not add to His words or He will reprove you, and you will be proved a liar."
The truth and reliability fo God's words are sure. Every one is tested and proven. We can rely on Him and in His promises. We are not to add to His words because when we do, they will be tested and prove to be unreliable. That undermines the confidence that is gained from relying on that which is true and tested.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Take Two: Esther 2, Proverbs 29
Ch 2 begins with the king sobering up. The party is over and he pops some excedrin and says, "what did I do with my wife?" (v.1). Now, historically speaking...what had occurred with banishing his wife from the kingdom could not be undone, because it had been written in the law of the Medes and Persians (1:19). Now that the king has realized his sin and poor judgment, he has two choices: He can repent and admit his error (like any human) or he can call for a meeting of his smart guys...who will offer alternatives. He opted for #2.
In v.2-4, the plan to find the king a new wife was being unfolded. They would seek after all of the attractive virgins in the kingdom and bring them into the harem. Then the king would "interview" them one at a time until he found one that pleased him (v.4).
In vv.5-7 we meet Esther, a beautiful young woman (a teen girl by today's standard) who was an orphan and was being raised by her uncle.
In vv.8-11, we see that Esther was taken into the harem with the other women. She does not disclose that she is a Jew (according to her uncle's directive). She also demonstrates a unique characteristic which pleased the harem keeper and she gets some special consideration.
vv.12-16 explains that the preparation process for getting ready to "interview" with the king took a year. A year of skin care, mineral baths, cosmetics and perfume. This may sound like a year at the spa...but remember the outcome. These women were being prepared for the king (because without this kind of preparation, they were unworthy of coming into the king's presence.) Each woman was granted a wish on her way to the palace. She could carry one item (which would serve as her retirement in the harem of the concubines if not selected). I am not certain what all this would have looked like. I picture in my mind some girls taking pictures, some gold hairbrushes, some DVD players.... In actuality, it was probably a choice of clothing or jewelry so as to make herself as attractive as possible. She would have only one shot to win the king over.
Notice now the insight into Esther's character which was hinted at previously. She kept her identity a secret because her uncle told her to. She was humble under leadership. God gave her favor with the chief of the Harem and he suggested to her what to take with her for her night with the king. (We are not sure exactly what it was). She humbled herself and accepted this man's counsel as well. It worked and she earned favor with the king and was selected to be his wife and queen (vv.17-19).
Esther's uncle, Mordecai, had checked on her daily all throughout this process. Now that she was queen, their contact would be more strained. However, he was a man of risk as well. He overheard of a plot to kill the king from among the men in the Susa (v.21). He sent word to the queen who related the information to the king on Mordecai's behalf (not her own...and this is another indicator of her character). The plot was uncovered and now...not only is Esther in good graces, but Mordecai is gaining credibility as well.
Applying this for me has two primary focuses. First...the humility to accept authority and counsel is amazing. I am not certain, but a year of being waited on hand and foot at the spa might go to a person's head. Not Esther. She never forgot who she was...who her authority was (Mordecai) and who the key influencers/counselors in her life were (Hegai).
Second, Esther is not working for a "microwave" solution to her troubles. We will see that more as the book progresses. She is working the "long game." In relationships in the family, among co-workers, in finanical decisions, and in making disciples...we would all do well to remember that we are to work a "long game" solution...not try to fix everything at once. When we shoot for immediate fixes...sometimes we incur a "body count" that is otherwise unnecessary.
A couple of quick examples: You can tell your kids what to do until they grow up and leave the home. This way, you insure they act properly and experience minimal pain while living under your roof. But, you never teach them to choose for themselves. You never help them learn from mistakes. You never get to teach them about the realities of life...that we all fail and fall. It is tough to let them (as they grow up a bit) make mistakes...but it is better to allow it while you still have influence in their lives to put the pieces back together...than to shelter them until college. At that point, some sixth year sophomore will be speaking wisdom into their lives. Ugh!
Not every sin in a person's life must be addressed on the first meeting. If a friend is not a Christian...the fact that he/she is sleeping around, drinking like a fish, and dressing weird is not your first concern. Helping him/her find a reference point in God is the first concern. Some people have asked me why I would let people who are obviously lost participate in the assembly of Christians. My answer is...because they need the influence of people with a God-reference in their lives. Once they get the God-reference figured out and solidified, the rest will fall into place. If I am able to convince them to leave unhealthy relationships, stop getting drunk and dress "less weird", but the God isssue is unsettled...they go to hell sober. That is unacceptable.
Proverbs 29:11 is the takeaway today. "A fool always loses his temper, but a wise man holds it back." Both the fool andthe wise man experience the same emotion. The fool is ruled by his. He acts out according to his emotions while the wise man acts out according to principle. Emotions are a real part of our being...but they are intended to be kept in check by our wisdom (application of God's word.) Our emotions make us human...our yielding to them as controlling factors...makes us fools.
In v.2-4, the plan to find the king a new wife was being unfolded. They would seek after all of the attractive virgins in the kingdom and bring them into the harem. Then the king would "interview" them one at a time until he found one that pleased him (v.4).
In vv.5-7 we meet Esther, a beautiful young woman (a teen girl by today's standard) who was an orphan and was being raised by her uncle.
In vv.8-11, we see that Esther was taken into the harem with the other women. She does not disclose that she is a Jew (according to her uncle's directive). She also demonstrates a unique characteristic which pleased the harem keeper and she gets some special consideration.
vv.12-16 explains that the preparation process for getting ready to "interview" with the king took a year. A year of skin care, mineral baths, cosmetics and perfume. This may sound like a year at the spa...but remember the outcome. These women were being prepared for the king (because without this kind of preparation, they were unworthy of coming into the king's presence.) Each woman was granted a wish on her way to the palace. She could carry one item (which would serve as her retirement in the harem of the concubines if not selected). I am not certain what all this would have looked like. I picture in my mind some girls taking pictures, some gold hairbrushes, some DVD players.... In actuality, it was probably a choice of clothing or jewelry so as to make herself as attractive as possible. She would have only one shot to win the king over.
Notice now the insight into Esther's character which was hinted at previously. She kept her identity a secret because her uncle told her to. She was humble under leadership. God gave her favor with the chief of the Harem and he suggested to her what to take with her for her night with the king. (We are not sure exactly what it was). She humbled herself and accepted this man's counsel as well. It worked and she earned favor with the king and was selected to be his wife and queen (vv.17-19).
Esther's uncle, Mordecai, had checked on her daily all throughout this process. Now that she was queen, their contact would be more strained. However, he was a man of risk as well. He overheard of a plot to kill the king from among the men in the Susa (v.21). He sent word to the queen who related the information to the king on Mordecai's behalf (not her own...and this is another indicator of her character). The plot was uncovered and now...not only is Esther in good graces, but Mordecai is gaining credibility as well.
Applying this for me has two primary focuses. First...the humility to accept authority and counsel is amazing. I am not certain, but a year of being waited on hand and foot at the spa might go to a person's head. Not Esther. She never forgot who she was...who her authority was (Mordecai) and who the key influencers/counselors in her life were (Hegai).
Second, Esther is not working for a "microwave" solution to her troubles. We will see that more as the book progresses. She is working the "long game." In relationships in the family, among co-workers, in finanical decisions, and in making disciples...we would all do well to remember that we are to work a "long game" solution...not try to fix everything at once. When we shoot for immediate fixes...sometimes we incur a "body count" that is otherwise unnecessary.
A couple of quick examples: You can tell your kids what to do until they grow up and leave the home. This way, you insure they act properly and experience minimal pain while living under your roof. But, you never teach them to choose for themselves. You never help them learn from mistakes. You never get to teach them about the realities of life...that we all fail and fall. It is tough to let them (as they grow up a bit) make mistakes...but it is better to allow it while you still have influence in their lives to put the pieces back together...than to shelter them until college. At that point, some sixth year sophomore will be speaking wisdom into their lives. Ugh!
Not every sin in a person's life must be addressed on the first meeting. If a friend is not a Christian...the fact that he/she is sleeping around, drinking like a fish, and dressing weird is not your first concern. Helping him/her find a reference point in God is the first concern. Some people have asked me why I would let people who are obviously lost participate in the assembly of Christians. My answer is...because they need the influence of people with a God-reference in their lives. Once they get the God-reference figured out and solidified, the rest will fall into place. If I am able to convince them to leave unhealthy relationships, stop getting drunk and dress "less weird", but the God isssue is unsettled...they go to hell sober. That is unacceptable.
Proverbs 29:11 is the takeaway today. "A fool always loses his temper, but a wise man holds it back." Both the fool andthe wise man experience the same emotion. The fool is ruled by his. He acts out according to his emotions while the wise man acts out according to principle. Emotions are a real part of our being...but they are intended to be kept in check by our wisdom (application of God's word.) Our emotions make us human...our yielding to them as controlling factors...makes us fools.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Take Two: Esther 1, Proverbs 28
The book of Esther is a narrative on how God, through one faithful and courageous woman, saved His people. It is unique in the Old Testament. We will discuss more on why as we move along in the book.
In Ch 1, we see how the storyline unfolds. King Ahasuerus throws a six month banquet celebration for all of his management team and visiting dignitaries. Yes...six months (v.4). After which, he throws a local banquet for all the people in his immediate area (the Susa) who had been serving and present during the 6 month party. On the last day of this week long banquet, the king was "merry" with wine. (IOW: He was toasted). He had been displaying all of his wealth and possessions. Probably...since he is coming off of 6 months of partying...he had become accustomed to people telling him how cool he was. In fact, since he was running an open tab at the bar and everyone could order as they liked...I imagine he was feeling like the most popular guy around. Here is a good point:
Don't start to believe what you read about yourself in the papers. A pastor friend told me when I began my ministry that I should never read my own "press clippings." I did not know what he meant at the time...but the truth is, when people comment and compliment me on what I do and how it touches them...a man who is less than careful, might start to think it is "him" and not "HIM" who is doing the work. Maybe for you it is some other measure of success. Perhaps it is work, education, your family life. Remember, you cannot start to believe all of the nice things people say about you. You probably are not "all that." Certainly God working in you is responsible.
Anyway, Ahasuerus wanted to show off his prized possession. He sent for his wife so he could parade her in front of his drunk partygoers and let them tell him what a cool guy he continued to be. But...she (Vashti) said no. She was not going to be paraded around like somebody's property. Now truthfully, King A. loved her...but he was becoming full of himself (and wine) so he was not thinking like himself. When he was refused...he called a meeting of all of his "smart guys" to discuss what to do. They said...you have to punish her or our wives and all wives will start to backtalk their husbands and us. We don't want an epidemic! Kick her to the curb!
So, the inebriated king, acted and banned his wife from the kingdom. This was done so that all of the wives in the kingdom would fear and obey their husbands (v.20). This is the last point I want to make today.
You either "demand leadership or you inspire follow-ship." The latter is true leadership...while the former is simply exercising positional authority. If you want to have influence in the lives of people...inspire them. Whether it is your spouse, your children, or your co-workers. Live as a servant in their midst. Honor them. Treat them better than they deserve. Then, pray that God uses your actions to speak to their heart about Himself.
Proverbs 28:26 in the takeaway today: "He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, but he who walks wisely will be delivered." At issue here is discerning and acting upon a course of action. He who trusts in his own heart.... refers to the man who seeks counsel from within himself. He is the one who asks, "what do I think, what do I want, what will I do?" Decisions are made based on his feelings, impressions, reasoning, and personal motivations. The one who walks wisely (or with wisdom) is the one who walks with the preeminent concern, "What choice glorifies God and is in concert with His word?" That man will always come out on top.
Yes...it is difficult to make the God choice over our own "perceived" personal happiness. Still, God has told us that His way will always be best. We simply must choose if we believe God...or think we can do better on our own.
A final consideration: to follow one's own heart does not mean (in this passage) to listen to the Holy Spirit. Often, we as believers have to follow His leading because the "faith" part of our walk doesn't have a verse to point to. That is ok and good. The writer here was referring to a person who chose his own course of God's leading.
Grace,
In Ch 1, we see how the storyline unfolds. King Ahasuerus throws a six month banquet celebration for all of his management team and visiting dignitaries. Yes...six months (v.4). After which, he throws a local banquet for all the people in his immediate area (the Susa) who had been serving and present during the 6 month party. On the last day of this week long banquet, the king was "merry" with wine. (IOW: He was toasted). He had been displaying all of his wealth and possessions. Probably...since he is coming off of 6 months of partying...he had become accustomed to people telling him how cool he was. In fact, since he was running an open tab at the bar and everyone could order as they liked...I imagine he was feeling like the most popular guy around. Here is a good point:
Don't start to believe what you read about yourself in the papers. A pastor friend told me when I began my ministry that I should never read my own "press clippings." I did not know what he meant at the time...but the truth is, when people comment and compliment me on what I do and how it touches them...a man who is less than careful, might start to think it is "him" and not "HIM" who is doing the work. Maybe for you it is some other measure of success. Perhaps it is work, education, your family life. Remember, you cannot start to believe all of the nice things people say about you. You probably are not "all that." Certainly God working in you is responsible.
Anyway, Ahasuerus wanted to show off his prized possession. He sent for his wife so he could parade her in front of his drunk partygoers and let them tell him what a cool guy he continued to be. But...she (Vashti) said no. She was not going to be paraded around like somebody's property. Now truthfully, King A. loved her...but he was becoming full of himself (and wine) so he was not thinking like himself. When he was refused...he called a meeting of all of his "smart guys" to discuss what to do. They said...you have to punish her or our wives and all wives will start to backtalk their husbands and us. We don't want an epidemic! Kick her to the curb!
So, the inebriated king, acted and banned his wife from the kingdom. This was done so that all of the wives in the kingdom would fear and obey their husbands (v.20). This is the last point I want to make today.
You either "demand leadership or you inspire follow-ship." The latter is true leadership...while the former is simply exercising positional authority. If you want to have influence in the lives of people...inspire them. Whether it is your spouse, your children, or your co-workers. Live as a servant in their midst. Honor them. Treat them better than they deserve. Then, pray that God uses your actions to speak to their heart about Himself.
Proverbs 28:26 in the takeaway today: "He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, but he who walks wisely will be delivered." At issue here is discerning and acting upon a course of action. He who trusts in his own heart.... refers to the man who seeks counsel from within himself. He is the one who asks, "what do I think, what do I want, what will I do?" Decisions are made based on his feelings, impressions, reasoning, and personal motivations. The one who walks wisely (or with wisdom) is the one who walks with the preeminent concern, "What choice glorifies God and is in concert with His word?" That man will always come out on top.
Yes...it is difficult to make the God choice over our own "perceived" personal happiness. Still, God has told us that His way will always be best. We simply must choose if we believe God...or think we can do better on our own.
A final consideration: to follow one's own heart does not mean (in this passage) to listen to the Holy Spirit. Often, we as believers have to follow His leading because the "faith" part of our walk doesn't have a verse to point to. That is ok and good. The writer here was referring to a person who chose his own course of God's leading.
Grace,
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