THE REWARD OF THE WICKED
Scripture Reading: Esther 7:6-10
“So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then the king’s wrath subsided.” Esther 7:10
Queen Esther reveals her Jewish identity to King Xerxes and exposes Haman’s plot to annihilate her people. She pleads for her life and the lives of her fellow Jews, emphasising the grave danger they face. Enraged by Haman’s treachery, the king demands to know who is responsible for such an atrocity. Esther identifies Haman as the adversary, leading to the king’s fury. Haman, realising his imminent doom, pleads for his life but is overheard by the king. As a result, Haman is hanged on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai, marking a decisive turn in the story where justice is served for the attempted genocide of the Jews.
In Esther 7:10, Haman faced the very fate he had devised for Mordecai, illustrating that malicious intentions often backfire. This narrative underscores a timeless truth: those who plot harm against others may ultimately bring destruction upon themselves. Similarly, Proverbs 11:21 reminds us that “The wicked will not go unpunished, but those who are righteous will go free.” This scripture encourages us to maintain integrity and trust that justice will prevail. Even when malevolence seems to prosper, righteousness will ultimately be vindicated. Let this serve as a motivation to uphold virtue, knowing that good will triumph and the wicked will receive their due reward.
Prayer
Dear Lord, help me to uphold righteousness and keep me from all forms of wickedness. Amen.
One Year Bible Reading
Day 193 Psalm 7-9; acts 17:1-15
RE-WRITE THE VERDICT
Esther 8:1-10
‘You yourselves write a decree concerning the Jews, as you please, in the king’s name, and seal it with the king’s signet ring; for whatever is written in the king’s name and sealed with the king’s signet ring no one can revoke.’ Esther 8:8
In today’s memory verse, the decree to protect the Jewish people stands as a powerful reminder of our ability to rewrite our stories. It states, “Write to the Jews as you please, in the name of the king.” This verse encourages us to take charge of our narratives, illustrating that we are not bound by our past circumstances or the judgments placed upon us. Just as Esther and Mordecai flipped the script on their fate, we too can reclaim our power and redefine our lives. When faced with challenges, remember that you hold the pen to your story.
Negative verdicts or circumstances can feel insurmountable, but like Esther, you have the strength to advocate for change. Each day offers a new opportunity to choose hope over despair, action over inaction. Embrace the courage within to rewrite your verdict. Imagine the possibilities when you decide to act in faith and resolve. With conviction, create a new decree for your life where obstacles transform into stepping stones. Stand firm, knowing that your voice matters and that you have the authority to write your future. Take a leap today and rewrite your verdict!
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for reminding me that I can rewrite my story with your approval. Amen
ONE YEAR BIBLE RADING
DAY 194 PSALM 10-12;ACTS 17:16-34
IT’S YOUR TIME TO SHINE
Esther 8:11-17
‘So Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal apparel of blue and white, with a great crown of gold and a garment of fine linen and purple; and the city of Shushan rejoiced and was glad. – Esther 8:15
Our memory verse captures a profound transformation, symbolising that it is indeed your time to shine. Just as Mordecai emerged with dignity and authority, you, too, have the potential to step into your greatness. Life often presents challenges that may leave us feeling small or uncertain. However, remember that within you lies the power to rise above circumstances. This is your moment to embrace your unique gifts and talents. Every setback you’ve faced has equipped you for this very opportunity.
Take inspiration from Esther’s bravery and Mordecai’s triumph. Trust in your abilities, believe in your worth, and don’t shy away from pursuing your dreams. When you acknowledge your inherent light, you not only elevate yourself but also inspire others. So, wear your crown boldly! Step forward with confidence and let your brilliance shine through. Whether it’s in your career, relationships, or personal goals, seize this moment—because this is truly your time to shine. Illuminate the world around you, and watch as doors open and possibilities unfold!
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you because my time to shine has come. Amen.
ONE YEAR BIBLE RADING
DAY 195 PSALM 13-16;ACTS 18
AT THE KING’S INVITATION
Esther 9:11-17
Now what is your petition? It shall be granted to you. Or what is your further request? It shall be done.” Esther 9:12b.
Whenever we have an opportunity like this, anytime we go to God in prayers, provided it pleases God let’s not ask anything short of total victory. What is more important is if it pleases God. Remember that God commanded Saul to execute the full extent of god’s judgment against the Amalekites (1 Samuel 15:2-3). Saul failed but this later descendant of the tribe of Benjamin, named Mordecai (2:5-6), through the girl he raised, completed God’s judgment against the Amalekites.
This was made possible because someone’s heart was in alignment with God’s mind on that issue of the Amalekites. When Nehemiah was also asked by the king to make his request, look at what he said in verse 5 of chapter 2 of Nehemiah. “… If it please the King,…send me unto Judah, unto the city of my fathers” sepulchres, that I may build it.” When Solomon had same opportunity look at his request “Give me wisdom and knowledge so I can lead this people because no one can govern this great people of you without your help” (II Chronicles 1:10). As a result of relationship or burden for God’s people around you, can you give an answer to this question “what do you want”? – This king is inviting you now to the place of prayer, and all he is asking is, “What is your request?”
Prayer
Lord, align my heart to your purpose, strengthen my hands by faith and help me to trust you enough to ask. Amen.
ONE YEAR BIBLE RADING
DAY 195 PSALM 17-18;ACTS 19:1-20
STEPPING INTO DIVINE DESTINY
Luke 1:5-16
But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. Luke 1:13.
Have you ever felt like your life was following a predictable routine, only to have God interrupt with a surprising plan? That’s exactly what happened to Zechariah and Elizabeth. Despite their advanced age and Elizabeth’s barrenness, God had other plans. Sometimes we pray for something for a long time. We pray for the salvation of a spouse or a child. We pray for a calling or a ministry. We pray that God will bring that special person to us. But after years of heartfelt prayer and no answer, we give up out of discouragement. Zacharias and Elizabeth probably prayed lots of passionate prayers for a son, but gave up a long time ago, and stopped believing God for so much anymore.
We are reminded from this scripture that God’s timing and plans are often unpredictable. However, when we surrender to His will, we can step into a divine destiny that exceeds our wildest expectations. Zacharias had no idea that God would answer the greatest desires of his heart. He had probably completely given up on the idea of being a dad. But God hadn’t given up on it, even though Zacharias and Elizabeth had. Take a moment to reflect on areas in your life where you feel stuck or uncertain. Be open to God’s leading, and take a step of faith towards fulfilling your divine destiny.
Prayer
Father, help me to be open to Your interruptions in my life. Give me the courage to trust Your plans, even when they don’t make sense to me. Amen.
ONE YEAR BIBLE RADING
DAY 197 PSALM 19-21;ACTS 19:21-41
THE POWER OF FAITH AND SURRENDER
Luke 1:27-38a
Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” Luke 1:38
Mary’s response to the angel Gabriel’s announcement is a powerful example of faith and surrender. When Gabriel told Mary that she would bear a son, Jesus, who would be the Son of God, Mary’s initial response was logical. She asked the same question Zacharias asked in Luke 1:18, but his question was asked in sceptical unbelief, while her question was asked in wonder-filled faith. However, after Gabriel explained that the Holy Spirit would come upon her, Mary’s response changed. She surrendered to God’s plan, saying, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). That should be the proper response of every believer to every promise of God.
Mary’s surrender was not based on her understanding of the situation, but on her trust in God’s sovereignty. She recognised that God’s ways are higher, and that His plans are always good. And her singular act of surrendering imprinted her name in history. She became the earthly mother of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. How often do we try to control or understand God’s plans before surrendering to them? Mary’s example teaches us that total surrender is not about understanding, but about trusting. When we surrender to God’s will, we open ourselves up to His power and provision. Take a moment to reflect on areas in your life where you’re struggling to surrender to God’s will. Ask God to give you the faith to trust in His sovereignty and goodness.
Prayer
Father, help me to surrender to Your will, even when I don’t understand. Give me the faith to trust in Your sovereignty and goodness. Amen.
ONE YEAR BIBLE RADING
DAY 198 PSALM 22-24;ACTS 20:1-16
A HEART OF WORSHIP
Luke 1:46-55
God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth. John 4:24
Mary’s song, also known as the Magnificat or the canticle of Mary or Ode of the Theotokos, is a beautiful expression of worship and praise. After learning she would bear the Son of God, Mary’s heart overflowed with joy and adoration. She recognised the greatness of God and the incredible blessing she had received. She said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior” (Luke 1:46-47). Mary’s worship was not just a polite response; it was a heartfelt expression of amazement and gratitude. She acknowledged God’s power, mercy, and faithfulness, and she celebrated His goodness.
Today, we are encouraged to cultivate a heart of worship. We can start by: recognising God’s greatness and power, acknowledging His mercy and faithfulness, and celebrating His goodness and blessings. Let us live every day of our lives in worship to God, our Father. How often do we take time to truly worship and magnify God? Do we allow ourselves to be awestruck by His majesty and goodness? Take a moment to reflect on the blessings and goodness God has shown you. Write down three things you’re grateful for, and then express your gratitude to God through prayer or worship.
Prayer
Dear Father, help me to cultivate a heart of worship. May my soul magnify Your greatness, and may my spirit rejoice in Your goodness even in times of doubt. Amen.
One Year Bible Reading
DAY 199 PSALM 25-27; ACTS 20:17-38
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