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).
2 Chronicles 26:1-28:27 Help us, Lord, to learn from the failure of King Uzziah. He began well – “He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord … He set himself to seek God” (2 Chronicles 26:4-5). He lost his way – “When he was strong, he grew proud, and he was false to the Lord his God” ( 2 Chronicles 26:16). Help us, Lord, to become better people – not bitter people!
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