God: Sovereign over all

"You yourselves [Esther and Mordecai] write a decree concerning the Jews, as you please, in the king’s name, and seal it with the king’s signet ring; for whatever is written in the king’s name and sealed with the king’s signet ring no one can revoke” (Esther 8:8) NKJV.

God raises up and takes down leaders. He, alone, knows the man or woman for the job. I find that fascinating since some leaders are evil and corrupt. Does God use them? You bet He does. As alarming as that might seem, even the most unsavory characters can be useful to God. Once a heart is hardened, sometimes that’s the only way. We must remember, first, that God is sovereign over all things, including people who have a bent toward violence and destruction. Second, He is bringing all things to His desired end – regardless of what we see. With confidence, Paul assured the Romans, saying, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).

What’s our takeaway? Even through evil is present in this world, God is ruling and reigning. He has not vacated the throne, nor will He. And we have a role to play. Like Esther, we can reverse the curse. That’s what love does! Haman was unrepentant and therefore unredeemed; but for others, there’s still a chance. We, the redeemed, are God’s purveyors of love and peace on the earth. We can give and forgive all things, because we are loved and forgiven. Nothing melts a hardened heart like unconditional love, forgiveness, and acceptance.

Prayer: Mighty and gracious Lord, Help us to love and minister your peace in a cold hard world. Help us to live unoffended. Jesus, fill us and use us, we pray. Broaden our influence and expand our territory, as you prepare hearts to receive the good news – the gospel of salvation - with gladness. Thank you Jesus. Amen.