Day 113 – Esther: Intercession and deliverance

“He told them to celebrate these days with feasting and gladness and by giving gifts of food to each other and presents to the poor. This would commemorate a time when the Jews gained relief from their enemies, when their sorrow was turned into gladness and their mourning into joy.” Esther 9:22 NLT

Reading Esther 5:1 to 10:3

Thus far in the saga, we saw how God positions key people in unexpected places according to His plan and that no matter the wicked ways of men, His righteousness prevails.

The Festival of Purim was instituted and is still celebrated today by Jews in February or March, depending on their calendar. It symbolises God’s deliverance. Purim means “lots”, such as those used by Haman to determine their annihilation. When we feel outnumbered, God’s plan includes His sovereignty and heaven’s armies.

The Jews were a minority in a world hostile to them, and it took great, divine wisdom for Mordecai to act for the survival of the nation. Serving as a faithful official to the king, he took steps to understand and work within the Persian law. Yet he did not compromise his integrity. To survive in a nonbelieving world takes great wisdom, endurance, a sound mind and unshakable faith. In a setting that is largely hostile to Christianity, we can demonstrate divine wisdom by respecting what is true and good and by humbly standing against what is wrong.

Prayer: Father, thank You that we learn in the book of Esther about acting wisely in hostile environments and how Your divine protection, provision, and providence are evident during the entire book and in our lives. Give us wisdom, Lord, to act with truth and righteousness towards those hostile towards your children. Amen.