The Tables Turned

Opening Verse:

“And the king arising from the banquet of wine in his wrath went into the palace garden: and Haman stood up to make request for his life to Esther the queen; for he saw that there was evil determined against him by the king.”
Esther 7:7 (KJV)

Introduction:

In this pivotal moment, Haman’s plot to destroy the Jews is exposed, and his desperate attempt to save himself highlights the consequences of pride and wicked schemes. The God who sees all brings justice, showing that He is always working on behalf of His people, even when the odds seem stacked against them.

Devotional Story:

A powerful CEO, renowned for his ruthless decisions, once schemed to sabotage a colleague he saw as a threat. For years, he manipulated circumstances to ensure his rival’s downfall. However, at the peak of his success, his deceit was exposed. In a dramatic twist, the board voted to remove him, and his rival was promoted to his position.

This story reflects the turn of events in Esther 7. Haman, filled with pride and hatred, sought to destroy Mordecai and the Jewish people. Yet, God’s providence worked through Esther’s courage and obedience, revealing Haman’s plans and securing justice for His people. Just as pride goes before destruction (Proverbs 16:18), Haman’s downfall came swiftly and decisively.

What This Means:

God’s justice cannot be thwarted. Haman’s story is a powerful reminder that no scheme against God’s people will prosper. Even in the face of injustice, we can trust that God sees, knows, and acts in His perfect timing. His providence ensures that the tables will always turn in favor of His purposes.

Think About This:

  • Are you trusting God to bring justice in a difficult situation?
  • How can you, like Esther, be courageous in the face of opposition?
  • Reflect on Romans 8:31: “If God be for us, who can be against us?”

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for being a God of justice and righteousness. Help us to trust in Your timing and sovereignty, even when we face injustice. Give us the courage to stand for what is right, knowing that You are always working on behalf of Your people. Amen.

Closing Verse:

“No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord.”
Isaiah 54:17 (KJV)

God Works Through Us

Opening Verse:

“For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”
Philippians 2:13 (KJV)

Introduction:

God is the Creator of all things. Nothing exists outside His sovereignty, yet He allows humanity free will. This freedom brings both beauty and brokenness, as evil actions poison the world. However, God calls His people to be His vessels, leading the way through His power, not our own.

Devotional Story:

James was a community leader burdened by the rising crime and despair in his neighborhood. As he prayed for answers, he heard a gentle reminder from God: “It’s not about what you can do, but about what I can do through you.”

He began organizing prayer walks, inviting neighbors to join. What started as a small gathering grew into a community revival. The change didn’t come from James’ efforts alone but from how God worked through the collective faith and obedience of His people. The atmosphere in the neighborhood shifted as hearts softened, relationships healed, and hope returned.

What This Means:

Evil in the world is a result of humanity’s choices, but God’s power is greater. He works through those who surrender to Him, using them to shine His light in the darkest places. It is not by our strength but by His Spirit that the world is changed.

Think About This:

  • How can you allow God to work through you in your current circumstances?
  • Are you trusting in your own strength, or relying on His power to bring change?

Prayer:

Lord, I surrender my will to Yours. Use me as Your vessel to bring light into dark places. Help me trust that Your power is sufficient to overcome evil and bring restoration. Let Your glory shine through my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse:

“Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.”
Zechariah 4:6 (KJV)