|
<< BACK TO THE FULL PAGE <<
DAY TWO
Esther the orphan became Esther the queen. She moved into the palace, and the king gave a great banquet in her honor. This lowly Jewish girl was given worldly acclaim and honor. Like Joseph, she was exalted to a place of position and power after a humble beginning.
- Read Esther 2:19-23. What had Mordecai instructed Esther not to reveal about herself? Why do you suppose he did that?
- Explain what you learn from this passage about Mordecai, Esther, and their relationship. Where was Mordecai positioned?
The king's gate was a prominent place for Mordecai to be. The gate of an ancient city was its major commercial and legal center. Markets and businesses were there, and the king occasionally held an audience at the gate.
- What conspiracy did Mordecai uncover, and how did he inform the king?
- Where was this event recorded? (v.23)
- Read Esther 3:1-15. Describe Haman's hatred toward Mordecai and why he plotted to exterminate the Jews.
- What elaborate detail did Haman go to in choosing a date for this extermination, even before he went to ask the king's permission?
Pur was the lot used as a means of selecting a date that was favorable in the astrological world. It is interesting that the date was so far in the future that later events were able to be implemented for the salvation of the Jews. God's hand is in all things for our good and His glory.
- What is your impression of the king? Give your opinion of his character, his knowledge, and his care of the people in his kingdom.
- Why do you think the city was bewildered by the king's edict? (v.15)
Haman was elevated to a high position in the king's court. Haman came from the Amalekites, the people who attacked Israel after they fled from Egypt. (Ex. 17:8-16) The Lord said He would be at war against the Amalekites. In Deuteronomy 25:17-19, God said that Israel was not to forget, but to "blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven." 500 years passed, and Mordecai remembered God's words. He knew Haman was behind the plot to exterminate the Jews, but he would not bow down to anyone except the one true God.
LESSONS AND APPLICATIONS
- Hatred does terrible things to the mind and heart. When was the last time you examined your heart for any trace of hatred toward someone? Ask God to remove from your life anything that has even a hint of this destructive attitude.
- Kingly authority is influenced by evil when evil men surround the throne. Who do you need to pray for who is in authority over you and possibly surrounded by evil advisors?
- God can use the lowly to bring down the mighty. How can God use you today to bring hope to someone who needs it?
- When authority is abused, it leads to bewilderment. What bewilderment are you facing because of someone's actions? What will you do about it?
- God holds the ultimate power. Who do you trust, God or man? Why?
|
