MARCH 29

Esther 8:15-17

JOY AND GLADNESS!

The Jews thought they were going to die. But as suddenly as they heard Haman’s decree of death, they received Mordecai’s decree of life! How things change! The sentence of death was lifted from their backs. Now the Jews experienced the joy and gladness of deliverance. Dear reader, does the good news of salvation bring you joy? For us, this salvation means more because it is able to save us from eternal death, and give eternal life.

God paid for your deliverance. If you haven’t received Jesus as your Saviour,the sentence of death is still on you.Your sins are still not forgiven,God’s holy law judges you. But when you receive Christ as Saviour, the sentence of death is lifted! Because Christ died in your place, you don’t have to suffer eternity in hell, but enjoy eternity in heaven. "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Rom 6:23

For the onlookers, this drastic change of power caused them to fear the Jews. Previously they saw Haman dressed in power and authority, and heard his decree to destroy the Jews. But shortly after, he was executed by the king’s command. It was now Mordecai the Jew, who once was mourning and crying, dressed in the king’s royal garments, and held power and authority. Everywhere, they saw their Jewish neighbours rejoicing, no longer in sackcloth and ashes!

Therefore, the onlookers feared the Jews and didn’t want to go against them. Many of them became Jews! When God works in the lives of His people, others can see the results and effects. It may even lead them to change their lives too. Dear reader, once you are saved, may God’s work in your life bring others to salvation!

Thought: The joy of salvation comes from knowing that Jesus has saved me from sin and one day I shall see Him in heaven.
Prayer (if you have not believed in Christ): Father in Heaven, I confess that I am a sinner. Please forgive me of all my sins. I believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross to save me from my sins, and eternity in hell. I accept Him as my personal Lord and Saviour.Thank You for saving me,please use me to spread the good news of salvation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Prayer (if you have believed in Christ): Father in Heaven, when I am weak and tired, I pray that You will grant to me the joy of salvation. Help me remember Christ who died in my place and given me eternal life. Help me remember that because He lives, I can face tomorrow. In Jesus’ name, Amen.