Week Nine - The Tables Turned

Here we are, on the last week of the study of Esther.

In today's lesson, we see the Jews defending themselves and their families. If you remember, the decree stated that the Jews could kill anyone who threatened them and plunder their property. The Jews did protect themselves, but did not take any property. When it was reported to the king that the Jews had killed 500 men, he asked Esther what she would like to have and he would grant it to her. She asked that the Jews be able to defend themselves for one more day. On the second day, they killed another 300 men. Why do you think Esther asked for a second day?

This lesson shows us again that at times when all feels hopeless, God will take care of us if we trust Him. Things may look impossible when we see them through our eyes, but "nothing is impossible when you put your trust in God". The Jews had been given a death sentence, but He used Esther and Mordecai to offer them a way of escape.

In the same way, He offers us a way of escape. He offers us escape from death through salvation, as well as escape from the many sins in our lives (pride, hatred, alcohol, drugs, abuse, selfishness, gossip, etc.). The list could go on forever. It's great to know that there is Someone who can take these things away from us and make us clean.

I will be posting the summary of Mordecai's and Esther's lives this week. As well, I will post information about the next study on Wednesday. Don't forget to be asking your friends to join us.