Monday, August 19: Esther 4:1-7:10, 1 Corinthians 12:1-26, Psalm 36:1-12, Proverbs 21:21-22 by Pamela

Today's passage from the Bible In a Year Reading Plan is Esther 4:1-7:10, 1 Corinthians 12:1-26, Psalm 36:1-12, Proverbs 21:21-22

These verses stood out for me:

16 “Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.”

When we are in trouble, we sometimes prefer to try and handle it on our own. Maybe we are embarrassed, maybe we don't want people to know, maybe we think there's nothing we can do to get out of the mess we're in anyway.  Esther calls Mordecai to get all the Jews...not a few but all...and fast and pray and all of her women as well. Their support gives her bravery and she's not afraid to face death. May we week the support of those around us when we are in times of trouble and despair.

4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 

We all have different gifts and talents. We complement each other. We would be unsuccessful if we were all the same. I think it's interesting that society tends to propagate the message that we are all the same and that everyone can do everything. That is such a contrast to God's way that gives everyone a task and a talent to complete it. May we recognize our talents and use them for His glory.

5 Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens,
    your faithfulness to the clouds.

We can't ever fully comprehend how God's love is so perfect and unending. We can never reach the heavens or the clouds and that is a perfect comparison to His love. What a blessing to know that we are loved beyond measure.

Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness    will find life, righteousness, and honor.

Whatever you are seeking...you will find. May we strive to seek out God's purpose and plan and submit to Him.

Tomorrow's Bible In a Year Passage: Esther 8:1-10:31 Corinthians 12:27-13:13Psalm 37:1-11Proverbs 21:23-24