Rejoice in the Lord

 

Bible Passage: Esther 8

Scripture: 

"Then Mordecai departed from the presence of the king in royal apparel of blue and white, with a large crown of gold and with a robe of fine linen and purple wool; and the city of Susa shouted and rejoiced. For [at this time] the Jews had light [a dawn of new hope] and gladness and joy and honor. In each and every province and in each and every city, wherever the king’s command and his decree arrived, the Jews celebrated with gladness and joy, a feast and a holiday. And many among the peoples of the land became Jews, for the fear of the Jews [and their God] had fallen on them."

(Esther 8:15‭-‬17 AMP)

Observation:

a. So Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal apparel: God’s purpose in all these matters goes farther than the sparing of the Jews from destruction; He also purposed to raise up Mordecai as the prime minister – as a replacement for Haman.

b. The Jews had light and gladness: This joy came before the actual day appointed when the Jews would be attacked, yet able to defend themselves. Nevertheless, because of the decree of the king, they can be assured of victory and rejoice in it ahead of time.

Application: 

In the same way, our course is not yet run; our salvation is not yet complete – yet we can rejoice, because of our confidence in our king – being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6).

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, I rejoice above all else because You are the King of my life. I can depend on You and I can count on You because You are my strong defense. Whatever trials or challenges that come my way, I rejoice knowing You are with me. You will never leave me nor forsake me. You are my Victory. In Jesus' mighty name. Amen.