The Esther Challenge - Day 8

Hi Woman of God

We’re nearly at the end of our Esther challenge, and today’s chapter may be one of the most powerful chapters of the challenge so far. We see the fullness of God’s plan come to a perfect completion as the decree which was made to destroy the Jews is reversed and replaced by a new decree. Let’s dive into the powerful lessons this chapter reveals.

SCRIPTURE

Proverbs Chapter 8 (the chapter as a whole)

OBSERVATION

This chapter highlights the great reversal that takes place after Haman’s downfall. Esther and Mordecai are honoured, and the king gives them authority to issue a new decree in favour of the Jews. However, an important detail remains: the previous decree to destroy the Jews cannot be revoked (verse 8), as per Persian law. Instead, a new decree is written, granting the Jews the right to defend themselves against their enemies (verse 11).

Several key themes emerge in this chapter:

1. Divine Reversal & Restoration (Verses 1-2)

   • Mordecai, who was once a lowly Jewish exile, is now promoted to Haman’s former position equivalent to prime minister. The very estate that belonged to Haman is now given to Esther and placed under Mordecai’s care. This shows how God can turn any situation around; He does not just save His people but He restores and promotes them in ways beyond expectation.

2. Esther’s Continued Courage & Advocacy (Verses 3-6)

   • Even though Haman is gone, Esther does not stop fighting for her people. She risks approaching the king again, this time pleading for a complete reversal of the decree made against the Jews. This reminds us that advocacy often requires persistence. Just because one battle is won does not mean the fight is over.

3. New Decree: Authority to Fight Back (Verses 8-13)

   • Because the king’s first decree can not legally be reversed, Mordecai is given authority by the king to write a new decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves. This is significant because the decree didn’t mean that the enemy may not still try to attack the Jews, but that the Jews have been given all authority, power and support to fight back against the enemy. This is the case for us as Christians today. God has given us power to trample over every evil thing (Luke 10:19), yet, He calls us to take action and to USE this power. The Jews were not given an easy escape: they had to stand up, fight, and claim their victory. This reveals how spiritual battles are fought today. God gives us victory, but we must actively stand in that authority and fight against the enemy.

4. Joy Replaces Fear (Verses 15-17)

   • The Jews, who were once mourning in fear, now rejoice because of the new decree. Even non-Jews begin to fear and respect them, and some even choose to join them, recognising the power of their God. This shows how God’s favour not only brings victory but also influences those around us and draws them unto God.

APPLICATION

I Will Trust in God’s Power to Reverse Any Situation

• No matter how bad things look, I will remember that God can turn things around for my good. Just as Mordecai went from mourning in sackcloth to wearing royal robes, God can transform any circumstance in my life. Instead of worrying, I will declare God’s promises over my life and trust that He is working behind the scenes for my restoration and promotion.

I Will Take Authority Over My Battles

• Just as the Jews were given the right to defend themselves, I will recognise that God has given me authority to stand against the attacks of the enemy. I will use prayer, the Word of God, and faith to fight fear, doubt, and any attack that comes against me.

I Will Let God’s Favour Shine Through Me

• When God blesses me, I will use it to glorify Him and be a testimony to others. I will live in a way that reflects the goodness of God, drawing others to Him through my actions, words, and lifestyle, as He gives me grace to do so.

PRAYER

Father, thank You for being the God of divine reversals. Just as You turned Esther, Mordecai and all the Jews’ situation around, I trust that You are working in my life for my good. Help me to walk in faith, knowing that no situation is too difficult for You to change. Give me the courage to persist in prayer and stand firm in battles, using the authority You have given me. Let my life be a testimony of Your goodness and favour, drawing others to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

See you tomorrow for Day 9 sister ✨

With my love

Tochi

P.s. If you want to learn about the differences between Jews and Christians today, you can grab my Bible study course here which covers all you need to know.