Day 261 Who was almost persuaded to be a Christian?

When Paul was seeking to plead his case he simply shared his story. One exceptional person was moved to almost be converted. Here is the account..."And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” And Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.” There is power in the sharing of a conversion story.

Day 260 What is it about Haman that reminds of the human condition?

Haman's plan begin to unravel. He plots to kill the man the king wants to honor. How is it that we human beings plan the opposite of what the Lord wants. In this almost tragic story for the Jews, we see a dramatic turn of events. Esther is in the right place at the right time to change history. God has a way of thwarting evil plots. We can be assured even today. God has a way to thwart evil plots. Haman and Mordecai and Esther are all symbols of the human condition...as well as good triumphing over evil.

Day 259 What was Esther's mission?

In today's text we read of Esther's mission. The Jews are under the threat of Haman and Mordecai sent word to Esther. He said..."And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” In this statement Esther had her mission. We will read about the outcome after the fast tomorrow.

Day 258 Was there a plot to kill Paul?

In the reading today we notice a threat to kill King Ashuerus which was intercepted by Mordecia. In the Book of Acts we of a plot of 40 men who refused to eat until Paul was killed. They would become pretty hungry, as Paul was given tremendous protection. It is interesting that both of these plots appear in the same day of reading.

Day 257 Where did testimonies begin?

Where did the idea of sharing our story in Christ begin? Could have been the man who had his vision restored. Or it could have been the woman at the well. How about Paul? In his moment of giving an account that could lead to execution...he tells his story! What a story! This is good advice to us for us to tell our story.

Day 256 Who is stirring the pot?

Paul is stirring up trouble...according to the Jewish religious leaders. In response, they stir up trouble. Ironic that those who accuse Paul of "stirring the pot" are the real culprits. Paul stands strong in his convictions ..."Then Paul answered, “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” And since he would not be persuaded, we ceased and said, “Let the will of the Lord be done.” What a statement of faith! I am not only willing to be imprisoned but let's God's will be done.

Day 255 How to fall into a dead sleep?

Eutychus fell after he had fallen to sleep. (Paul preached too long) He literally fell into a "dead sleep" and then fell dead. Paul revived him through the power of the spirit. We read..." And a young man named Eutychus, sitting at the window, sank into a deep sleep as Paul talked still longer. And being overcome by sleep, he fell down from the third story and was taken up dead. But Paul went down and bent over him, and taking him in his arms, said, “Do not be alarmed, for his life is in him.” And when Paul had gone up and had broken bread and eaten, he conversed with them a long while, until daybreak, and so departed. And they took the youth away alive, and were not a little comforted." As a pastor, I am amused at this story. Surely you must be too!