Overturning Irrevocable Wickedness (Esther 8:1-17).  The evil schemes devised to wipe out the Jews is still in place. Now the enemies of God’s people suffer the consequences of their hatred and evil schemes. The king grants the right of self-defense to the Jews.   

Evil Quashing Evil (Esther 7:1-10). Esther finally requests the king would spare her life and the lives of her fellow believers. She reveals that Haman has duped the King to purchase the annihilation of the Jewish people. Now Haman’s evil scheme instead consumes him. #dailydevotion, #Lutherandevotional, #DailyPlunge, #DailyLectionary, #DailyScripture, #Esther

Narcissistic Parade Assumption (Esther 6:1-10). Suffering insomnia Xerxes reads again how Mordecai the Jew saved his life. When Haman hears about the royal honors being bestowed, he can think only of himself. Even his intolerant family know God’s protection will protect the Jews. #dailydevotion, #Lutherandevotional, #DailyPlunge, #DailyLectionary, #DailyScripture, #Esther

75 Ft Impaling Narcissist (Esther 5:1-14). Queen Ethers begins to build influence with the King and disarm Haman. At the height of his power and prestige, Haman can’t stand that Mordecai won’t bow to him. He and his wicked family settle on execution for those who defy Haman’s power. #dailydevotion, #Lutherandevotional, #DailyPlunge, #DailyLectionary, #DailyScripture, #Ruth

Uncomfortable Interceding Lament (Esther 4:1-17). Under the threat of extermination Mordecai and Jewish believers with torn hearts and torn clothes pray to God for deliverance. Queen Esther is challenged to move out of comfort to risk herself to be used by God. #dailydevotion, #Lutherandevotional, #DailyPlunge, #DailyLectionary, #DailyScripture, #Ruth

Intolerant Government Extermination (Esther 3:1-4:3). Proud and arrogant Haman carries the generational hatred of the Jews. He persuades the king to enact state-sponsored genocide of the people of God who are faithfully different. Are we Christians distinct enough that we would be easy to pick out? #dailydevotion, #Lutherandevotional, #DailyPlunge, #DailyLectionary, #DailyScripture, #Ruth

Gawdy Trinket Display (Esther 1:1-21). Xerxes the Persian potentate shows offs his vast wealth to stroke his own ego. When his politically married queen rebuffs his request to be shown off a crisis and an opportunity is created. Power plays in marriage are the broken worldly wisdom. #dailydevotion, #Lutherandevotional, #DailyPlunge, #DailyLectionary, #DailyScripture, #Ruth

Faithful Purchasing Redeemer (Ruth 4:1–17). Throughout the story of Ruth, the LORD is the primary actor moving Ruth from Moab to Bethlehem and working among people in their lives. Who is our guardian redeemer who purchases us from indebtedness and shame? #dailydevotion, #Lutherandevotional, #DailyPlunge, #DailyLectionary, #DailyScripture, #Ruth