Have you ever wondered why we see so much evil in our generation? Have you seen or experienced hostility against those who love and try to obey God’s Word? Is this the first generation to see these things, and is there a pattern?
As we read the book of Esther, the “bad guy” is named Haman. He enters the story as a palace official who convinces the king that the Jews are traitors who should be killed and their property looted. Interestingly, as I studied Haman, I saw three characteristic that I find repeated in generation after generation.
Haman had a hatred of the Jewish people that was not hidden. When he discovered that Mordecai was a Jew and refused to bow to his wishes, Haman’s hatred was revealed.
Have you seen this in our generation? There is peace until God’s people refuse to bow down and worship at the same altar as our enemies. Haman wants God’s people to acknowledge his position of power and yield to him. When God’s people refuse, the hatred that is hidden in secret comes to the light of day.
Haman was not satisfied with his position and the respect and riches he received from holding that position. Within the heart of Haman, he wanted more control and power. He then used his power to steal, kill, and destroy the people of God. We are warned in John that the devil seeks the same thing and uses the people he influences to destroy believers in every generation.
The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10 NKJV
Although the Jews had a specific day of destruction before them, they didn’t cower! Mordecai acted and asked Esther to speak on behalf of her people. Not only did Mordecai take action, but so did Esther and the Jews of Persia.
Like the Jews of Ancient Persia, when the Hamans of our generation seek to attack the people of God, one does not have to cower!
Finally, as we approach this time of the year, let’s remember that there will always be Hamans who oppose God’s people. But may we never forget that God will always have the last word.
PS This is my favorite time of the year to read and study the book of Esther. The holiday of Purim is coming on March 21-22. Join me in reading the book of Esther this year!