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Esther-8

A Hopeful Turn: A Devotional Study on Esther Chapter 8​

Introduction​

The book of Esther can be characterized by twists and turns, as we see evil rise, but ultimately, God's sovereign plan prevails. As we delve into Esther 8, we see the most hopeful turn yet, as King Xerxes gives Esther and Mordecai the power to save the Jewish people from destruction. Let's take some time to explore the profound insights and spiritual lessons within this chapter.

Section 1: Esther's Plea (Esther 8:1-4)​

Devotional Thought: Esther falls at King Xerxes' feet, pleading for her people. Her heart is heavy, knowing the deep despair that has gripped the Jewish community. We can all relate to the feeling of helplessness, and the desperation that arises when we see the needs of those around us. However, Esther's plea teaches us the importance of advocacy, and the potential for change when we boldly present our petitions before God's appointed authorities.

Reflection Questions:

  • Who needs our advocacy in our communities and beyond?
  • How can we boldly bring our pleas before those in positions of authority, as Esther has done?

Section 2: Xerxes' Compassion (Esther 8:5-8)​

Devotional Thought: King Xerxes' heart is moved by Esther's plea and he grants her request. This response gives us insight into the dynamics of leadership, reminding us that those in authority can be moved by the heartfelt pleas of the people they serve. It teaches us that compassion and justice go hand in hand, and that true leadership is centered on serving others.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we actively seek to serve those in positions of authority, one way being through presenting our pleas before them with compassion and heartfelt urgency?
  • How can compassion and justice go hand-in-hand in our own leadership roles, whether in executive positions or relationships with family members and friends?

Section 3: Mordecai's Position (Esther 8:9-14)​

Devotional Thought: Esther's uncle, Mordecai, receives a unique promotion at the hands of the king. This promotion arises out of compassion and justice in response to Esther's plea. This section teaches us that often, the work that we do, no matter how small, has the potential to stir significant change. Mordecai's promotion serves as an encouragement, pushing us to work with diligence and passion in the tasks we have been given.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we continue working faithfully in our daily tasks, trusting that God uses such small things to stir significant change and bring about His divine plan?
  • In what everyday tasks can we work with diligence and passion in order to promote compassion and justice, even on a small scale?

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our devotional study of Esther chapter 8, the hopeful turn brings to mind the potential for significant change in even the smallest of tasks. Esther's plea, King Xerxes' compassion, and Mordecai's position all center around the ability for people to create meaningful change, whether in positions of leadership or in everyday tasks. As we move forward, let's continue to trust in God's divine plan, working with faithfulness and diligence and seeking to be a catalyst for compassion and justice. We can take comfort in the fact that God uses the smallest things to create significant change, as outlined in Esther 8:14, where He says, "So the letter was written, to be sent off by mounted trackers, riding swiftly horses bred for the king's service."