In
the book of Esther, we see the people of God in conflict. There were
enemies against whom they had to contend. In this battle, there are
victories which lead to "joyous celebration" (Esther 8:15). Such times
of victory are times of "happiness and joy, gladness and honour" (Esther
8:16). Such times point toward the final victory, the glorious
celebration which will take place in God's eternal Kingdom. Worship will
"never stop." The Lord's people will "give glory, honour and thanks to
Him who sits on the throne and who lives forever and ever" (Revelation
4:8-9). Concerning the Lord, we say, "You are my refuge, my portion in
the land of the living" (Psalm 142:5). He is our refuge and portion in
both this life and the life to come. "The land of the living" does not
only speak of the "land" which will come to an end. It speaks also of
the "land" that endures forevermore. In this life, there are many times
when we say of our enemies, "They are too strong for me." In the life
to come, we will be fully "set free from our prison", set free by
God to "praise His Name" (Psalm 142:6-7).
What God did for His people, Israel, was very great. There is a striking contrast between their slavery in Egypt and their abundance in the promised land. God had multiplied His blessing upon them, just as Jesus did when He turned water into wine (John 2:1-11). If the blessing is to be maintained and increased, we must honour the Lord. We must cry to Him for blessing: "Hear my prayer, O God, listen to the words of my mouth." We must call upon Him with faith: "Surely God is my help; the Lord is the One who sustains me" (Psalm 54:2,4).
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