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TAKE UP THE CHALLENGE

Jesus taught that all scripture testifies about him so that in him we might have life (John 5v39-40). King David taught that it is only by living according to God's word that we're kept on the right path (Psalm 119v9). What then could be better than reading the entire Bible? Click the menu to read about the program, choose a month or Bible book - or just work through the blog posts day by day.

(682) 14 November : Proverbs 30v7-9 / Esther 1v1-2v18 / Psalm 139v11-12

BEGIN WITH PRAYER
"Lord open my eyes and my heart."

Read slowly so that you take in. And as you do, turn your heart to God, thanking him for the good you discover and praying his will home for you, your family, your church and the world.

Wisdom to chew on
Proverbs 30:7-9

Understanding to grow in
Esther was queen in around 480BC. The book was written some time later to record God's protection of the Jews exiled within the Persian Empire, that defeated and then superceded Babylon (2v5-7). The greatness of the empire and it's king fills chapter 1, highlighting the daunting nature of Esther being chosen to be queen. A number of things are immediately seen. First, being one of God's people doesn't mean we don't suffer hardship. Her experience shouldn't be read as romantic. It must have been terrifying. Second, surviving amongst those who aren't God's people needs wisdom. She takes constant advice from her cousin Mordecai and from the eunuch in charge of the harem. Third, God's people must look out for one-another. "Every day" Mordecai walked near the harem to find out how she was doing. As we live as "exiles" amongst those who don't know the Lord (1 Pet 1v1), we will suffer too, but with the wisdom and care of the Lord and of fellow believers, we can stand. As you read note how Esther must have felt.

Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:
1) What’s the main thing it teaches me about God or his purposes in Christ? Then praise him for this.
2) What’s the main thing it teaches me about his will for me or the world? Then pray that home.

Devotion to offer up
You could read this aloud and perhaps as a springboard to further prayer.