Scripture
"Think how you have instructed many, how you have strengthened feeble hands. Your words have supported those who stumbled; you have strengthened faltering knees. But now trouble comes to you, and you are discouraged; it strikes you, and you are dismayed." (Job 4:3-5)
Observation
There was a time in Job's life where he had it all, the riches of livestock, land, seven sons and three daughters, a large number of servants - Job was rolling big time!!! He is even recognized as the greatest man living in the East. Then all of a sudden, Job losses everything....
The Bible says that Job was respected by those who lived in Uz, and people would listen to his words of encouragement and instruction. But now at an all time low - feeling discouraged, dismayed, & stricken by calamity had to have Job a bit down.
Application
Job had been a great encourager, but he could not encourage himself to depth he needed it. Eliphaz failed to realize that the one who once had it all and gave it all was now suffering and could not easily encourage himself. Eliphaz should have been the one to encourage Job!
We maybe the only one who can build up someone. What do we do when it seems like no one is around to encourage the encourager?
Realize, that we may be the only hope, in a hopeless situation. These are the times that we can say, “we know and trust Jesus.” However, during certain seasons of lives Jesus may not “feel” close enough.
How do I process times when God “feels” distant? Knowing that God is still God. Knowing that time is one of God’s greatest tools and that only Jesus can bring healing and comfort, and peace, wholeness. When everything seems to be crashing down - where one turns reviles a lot.... When it all feels so hopeless - turn to God and know He is still God - despite our emotionally feelings of distance. Someone once said, "when Jesus is all that's left." "Then Jesus is all we've got." “Point them to Jesus.”
Prayer
Lord, Thanks for hooking me up with Job today. Thank you for his encouragement and example. During these hard times, help me remember that You are there and desire to embark on this journey alongside me. Help, me be a dispensers of hope and encouragement - pointing all to You as the source.
Thanks for everything You continue to free extend to me. Trevor
Observation
King Ahasuerus commands for Queen Vasht’s presence. Her response is a public statement of refusal defies the king on multiple levels. The reason for her action is unknown / untold.
Here is what I can observe:
King Ahasuerus is not drunk (vs 8).
King Ahasuerus merry (buzzed / feeling good) with wine (vs 10).
King Ahasuerus reviles his wisdom as he does not make a rash decision but gathers a trusted console (vs 12-14).
The console was not one (1) individual but with many who had the following qualifications:
Close to him / knew the king well.
Trusted.
Educated scholastically / culturally.
Knew the law: (scriptural / government of the land).
Knew justice: (governing law with cultural implications).
As King Ahasuerus harnessed his anger, he pulled back before making a rash response which would have probably lead to public humiliation. Instead of quickly responding he sought console of trusted, wise people in order to turn the tide.
Application
Don’t respond in anger or while under the influence of any mind altering substance.
Know who you can turn to for trusted, wise console.
Small group:2-6 individuals.
Develop a sound plan & move to resolve quickly.
Bottom line: Defiance must be dealt with quickly & out of a place of wisdom verses anger.
Prayer
Lord thank you for the timeless wisdom out of Ester today.
Help me not be quick in my response; especially, if anger is a factor. Help me discipline myself via Your guidance / instruction / commands in order to transform some deep seated patterns.
I commit once again today, to be a person that moves towards reconciliation on all levels. While, admitting that I need Your help to change. Thank you Lord for not giving up on me. Thank you also for surrounding me with a small group of individuals over the years that are deeply connected with You - who are also wise, culturally instructed individuals not afraid to push back yet have the best for me in mind. -Trevor