Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Because of everything written in this letter and because of what they had seen and what had happened to them, the Jews took it on themselves to establish the custom that they and their descendants and all who join them should without fail observe these two days every year, in the way prescribed and at the time appointed. These days should be remembered and observed in every generation by every family, and in every province and in every city. And these days of Purim should never fail to be celebrated by the Jews—nor should the memory of these days die out among their descendants.

Esther 5-10

Because of everything written in this letter and because of what they had seen and what had happened to them, the Jews took it on themselves to establish the custom that they and their descendants and all who join them should without fail observe these two days every year, in the way prescribed and at the time appointed. These days should be remembered and observed in every generation by every family, and in every province and in every city. And these days of Purim should never fail to be celebrated by the Jews—nor should the memory of these days die out among their descendants. Esther 9:26-28

Day 277 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues as my commentary as I finish a review of the book of Esther. Both Mordecai and Esther acted with courage when it counted and my commentary* points out how "[a]lthough there is no mention of God or covenant or restoration, there is the clear message that God watches providentially over his people".

*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®). Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition. 

Of importance as well with this story is how God providential protection is recorded for the Jewish nation to remember, as the festival of Purim is to be celebrated annually marking God's work during this period.  Worship is core to our faith and a critical spiritual discipline.  We must remember that God is in control, how all blessings come from Him, and without Him we would be lost and suffer the consequences of our sin - damnation.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who loves me and I know how You are in control and all blessings are from You.  I love You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You love and bless me.  I worry and I have other sins.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.