ASSIGNMENT:
Read Esther 3:10-15
Answer the following in your notebook...
1. Notice the wording in Haman’s orders (carrying the king’s seal). What statement in those orders would aid Haman in placing “ten thousand talents of silver in the royal treasury”?
2. At this point, how would you characterize the following:
a. Mordecai?
b. Xerxes?
(Do you see examples of a common thread in Xerxes “ruling style” in each of the first three chapters? How would you describe his style? What similarities do you see in the advice he receives from his advisors in each situation?)
c. Haman?
For Personal Reflection
We’ve already observed that God’s name is not mentioned in Esther; neither is Satan’s , although we can see an evil force at work against God’s people. However, we will also see an even greater force (God) at work protecting the Jews from annihilation.
There is a lesson for us in this. Even if we are not aware of God working in our lives and circumstances, Paul promised in Rom. 8:28 that He is working all things for good for those who love Him and have been called according to His purpose. We may need to be reminded that what is good (in God’s eyes & according to Paul) may be defined as “conformed to the likeness of His Son…”
Dear Sisters: have faith that our Heavenly Father is at work in your life and trust that it is for your good.
“And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that HE IS and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.” Heb. 11:6
