Good Work - Day 18
Day 18 - Wednesday, October 9
Read Esther 4
Highlight
The story of Esther is set in Susa, Persia when King Xerxes reigned. Jerusalem had been destroyed over 100 years before, and a wave of exiles had returned to begin reconstruction and completion of the temple. Yet, many Israelites were still in exile and spread all throughout the kingdom of Persia, including Esther. It is in this context that racial persecution is about to overcome the Jews, all the while Esther becomes Queen. In a decree made by Haman, he wanted the Jews annihilated. Except the Queen of Persia (Esther) would be included in this persecution. Because of her uncle’s encouragement - Esther was able to stand boldly and helped save her people. It was just “such a time as this” (v. 14) that God orchestrated her story for his glory.
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying? About God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? A promise to receive? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. This is a way to turn God’s Word to you back to Him. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers. (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8)
Read Esther 4
Highlight
The story of Esther is set in Susa, Persia when King Xerxes reigned. Jerusalem had been destroyed over 100 years before, and a wave of exiles had returned to begin reconstruction and completion of the temple. Yet, many Israelites were still in exile and spread all throughout the kingdom of Persia, including Esther. It is in this context that racial persecution is about to overcome the Jews, all the while Esther becomes Queen. In a decree made by Haman, he wanted the Jews annihilated. Except the Queen of Persia (Esther) would be included in this persecution. Because of her uncle’s encouragement - Esther was able to stand boldly and helped save her people. It was just “such a time as this” (v. 14) that God orchestrated her story for his glory.
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying? About God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? A promise to receive? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. This is a way to turn God’s Word to you back to Him. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers. (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8)
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