Table of Contents

Lesson 1 What is PURIM?

Lesson 2 Taste and See That the Lord Is Good

Lesson 3 God Has Not Given Us the Spirit of Fear

Lesson 4 I Must Be About My Father's Business

Lesson 5 Four Ways to Draw Closer to Your Spouse

Lesson 6 Forgive, Forgive, Forgive

Lesson 7 Praise

Lesson 8 From Brokenness to Beauty

Lesson 9 Un-forgiveness

Lesson 10 Thou Art Worthy

Lesson 11 Marriage – Love, Honor and…Obey?

Lesson 12 UNFORGIVENESS

Lesson 13 Relationships

Lesson 14 Conflict in Marriage

Lesson 15 How to have Unity in Marriage

Lesson 16 Un-forgiveness in Our Hearts

Lesson 17 God is Not Mad at You

Lesson 18 My Soul Longs for You, O God

Lesson 19 Safe in His Hands

Lesson 20 Hope in God

Lesson 21 God's Favor

Lesson 22 A Song of Love

Lesson 23 God Is Our Refuge

Lesson 24 Praise God--the King of the Earth

Lesson 25 Great is the LORD

Lesson 26 This Life is Fleeting

Lesson 27 Our God Shall Come

Lesson 28 Glorify Thy Name

PURIM Celebration

Hamantaschen Cookies

About the Author

PURIM Celebration Contributors

PURIM Celebration:

28 Daily Devotionals

A Daily-Bible-Reading Study

Compilation

By

Deborah H. Bateman

And

Friends

Copyright

Copyright © 2013 Deborah H. Bateman

No portion of this material may be reproduced or distributed in any way without the prior written permission of the author, except as allowed by the Copyright Act of the United States 1976, as amended.

All Scripture unless marked otherwise, is taken from The Holy Bible, King James Version.

Scriptures marked “NIV” are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV, Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved.

Scripture marked "NKJV" are taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Scripture quotations marked “Amplifed” are taken from the Amplified Bible, Old Testament,

Copyright ©1965, 1987 by the Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked “ESV” are taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version.

Copyright © 2000, 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked “NLT” are taken from The Holy Bible, New Living Translation

Copyright© 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Author: Deborah H. Bateman. P.O. Box 453, Lexington, SC  29071

Website: Deborah H. Bateman-Author http://www.deborahhbateman.com

Email: deborahbateman62@yahoo.com

Christian Daily Resources

P.O. Box 453

Lexington, SC 29071

Produced in the United States of America

Acknowledgements

Much thanks to Lisa Lickel for the editing of this book. Thanks to Jim Barney for formatting the book.

I would like to offer much gratitude to the contributors of this book, who along with me wrote the devotionals. I appreciate their friendship and support of my work. They are: Mary Pacheco, Penny Zeller, Katherine Harms, Dave Moore, Marlo Schalesky, Judith Rohl, Lynn Dove, Buffy Crabtree, Deborah McCarragher, Shawn Lamb, Serge Roux-Levrat, Lilly Brenner, Heidi Faith, and Lisa Buffaloe.

Dedication

Purim Celebration was originally created as part of the book launch for The Book of Esther: A Story of Love and Favor which was published by Deborah H. Bateman on March 28, 2012. Deborah invited some of her online friends to join in the celebration. She took the word PURIM and decided to write devotionals on P=Praise, U=Un-forgiveness or forgiveness, R=Relationships, I=Inspiration, and M=Marriage as all these topic relate to The Book of Esther.

She also decided since part of the Purim traditions includes giving gifts to the poor that a portion of the proceeds from this book would be given to charity. Her friends graciously accepted her offer and have worked together to promote The Book of Esther and to see PURIM Celebration published. To that end we dedicate this book to The Book of Esther, to all of the friends who participated in the celebration and in the publication of this book.

We also dedicate this book to those who still celebrate Purim today. It was a holiday started back in the days of Esther, the queen of Persia, to honor God for His favor on His people. Our dedication and devotion goes to God for His favor on His people when they dedicate their lives to Him and seek His face in their daily lives.

More Books by Deborah H. Bateman

Books in the Daily-Bible-Reading Series:

The Book of Ruth: A Story of Love and Redemption

The Book of Esther: A Story of Love and Favor

Beatitudes: How to Live a Blessed Life

Finding Our Identity in Christ

The Book of Ezra: A Story of Provision and Protection

Psalm 119: Thy Word is a Lamp unto My Feet

Self-Publishing Simplified: How to Publish a Book on Kindle

is Deborah’s first book about self-publishing.

All of Deborah’s books are available on Amazon.

Be on the lookout for more books by

Deborah H. Bateman

Lesson 1 What is PURIM?

What is PURIM?

By Deborah H. Bateman

Esther 9:26-32

PURIM is a Jewish holiday which was established during the days of the book of Esther to commemorate God’s deliverance of the Jewish people. It is a day of celebration where the book of Esther is read in the synagogues. There are parties where people dress up in costumes. They give gifts to the poor and to each other. It is a day of celebration including big family feasts.

The PURIM celebration has been passed down from generation to generation and is still celebrated today. PURIM is celebrated on the fourteenth and fifteenth of Adar according to the Hebrew calendar. Therefore, the date changes from year to year according to Gregorian calendar. They also make cookies called Hamantaschen, which may be called “Haman’s Hats” or ”Haman’s Ears.”

Have you ever been to a PURIM Celebration? Why not plan to have one at the end of this Bible study? It would be especially fun if you are doing this Bible study with a group. But, you could have a PURIM Celebration with your family. I have included some suggestions for your PURIM Celebration along with a recipe for Hamantaschen cookies in the back of this book.

I have never been interested in history that much, but since doing these Bible studies and learning how there are traditions and other things which have been passed down from generation to generation since biblical times I have become more interested in history, especially biblical history. Do you find biblical history interesting?

Daily Bible Scripture:

Esther 9:26-32

26 Wherefore they called these days Purim after the name of Pur. Therefore for all the words of this letter, and [of that] which they had seen concerning this matter, and which had come unto them,

27 The Jews ordained, and took upon them, and upon their seed, and upon all such as joined themselves unto them, so as it should not fail, that they would keep these two days according to their writing, and according to their [appointed] time every year;

28 And [that] these days [should be] remembered and kept throughout every generation, every family, every province, and every city; and [that] these days of Purim should not fail from among the Jews, nor the memorial of them perish from their seed.

29 Then Esther the queen, the daughter of Abihail, and Mordecai the Jew, wrote with all authority, to confirm this second letter of Purim.

30 And he sent the letters unto all the Jews, to the hundred twenty and seven provinces of the kingdom of Ahasuerus, [with] words of peace and truth,

31 To confirm these days of Purim in their times [appointed], according as Mordecai the Jew and Esther the queen had enjoined them, and as they had decreed for themselves and for their seed, the matters of the fastings and their cry.

32 And the decree of Esther confirmed these matters of Purim; and it was written in the book.

Things to think about:

- Do you find it interesting that special days which were established in biblical times are still celebrated today?

- What are some other holidays that were established in biblical times that are still celebrated today?

- What holidays do you celebrate and why do you celebrate them?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for the book of Esther and the lessons we learn from reading and studying it. We thank You that we can see Your sovereignty throughout the book. Thank You that we see there are certain days appointed in biblical times which are still celebrated today, such as PURIM. Help us to know You are in control and You will work things out for our good and Your glory. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

[1]English: First chapter of a hand-written scroll of the Book of Esther, with reader's pointer

עברית: פרק הראשון של מגילת אסתר בכתב יד, עם מצביע של הקורא

Français : Premier chapitre d'un rouleau manuscrit du Livre d'Esther

Español: Primer capítulo de un pergamino escrito a mano del libro de Ester

Nederlands: Eerste hoofdstuk van een handgeschreven rol van het Boek van Esther

11 March 2009

Chefallen

Lesson 2 Taste and See That the Lord Is Good

Taste and See That the Lord Is Good

By Mary Pacheco

Psalm 34:8

Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him! (Psalm 34:8 NKJV)

Have you ever wondered what this is all about? Why Life? Why am I here? Why do issues have to be so cloudy, so misunderstood?

Ever found yourself wandering around listless—what to do next? What’s important and why do I have to do anything anyway?

What makes some things more important than others? Or at least to me, anyway, some things are more important than others.

I can easily convolute myself into a complete misunderstanding and then think “Now why did I do that?” even amazing myself.

So when I find myself in a circle, I pray. I pray for the Lord to preserve my sanity because I trust in the Lord. He makes all things crystal clear. He directs my paths, He allows me to question Him when I don’t understand an uncomfortable outcome that clearly I wouldn’t agree.

I know that I am nothing without Him. He is life. Without Him, I am “not”. He has more than proven Himself to me. He lifts me out of my distresses, gives me solutions where I least expect them.

I know He chooses kings and noblemen and I am “not but me”. He is my King; I am His Princess.

When the storms of persecution arise, He delivers me (Psalm 7:1) by giving me the peace that surpasses all understanding.  I know I cannot change some people with their wicked ideas, or even some reckless situations, but only He can make the changes that call for changes when change is called for.

- You LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you. (Psalm 9:10 NKJV)

- As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the LORD is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him. (Psalm 18:30 NKJV)

- The LORD redeems the soul of His servants, And none of those who trust in Him shall be condemned. (Psalm 34:22 NKJV)

I have seen dawns with their incoming gladness and I have seen sunsets with sleepy, tired eyes.  I’ve seen, tasted, and experienced and now, today, I am old but not old enough that I can’t declare the power and might of my Lord to this new upcoming generation:  “Now also when I am old and gray headed, O God, do not forsake me, Until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to everyone who is to come.” (Psalm 71:18 NKJV)

My reflection on this devotional:

In the book of Esther, Esther may have wondered why she became queen, but Mordecai reminded her that she may have been there for such a time as this. When we question our purpose, we have to look to God to lead, guide, and direct in our lives. Esther turned to God and He led her to victory.

Things to think about:

- Have you ever wondered what your purpose was?

- Have you ever felt forsaken by God?

- Do you trust God?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You that we can trust You to see us through this life. You know our purpose for being here and You will lead, guide, and direct in our lives if we will follow You. Help us to look to You for direction in our lives when we feel overwhelmed or feel as if we have lost our way. Help us to trust You to set our feet on solid ground and lead us in the way You have for us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 3 God Has Not Given Us the Spirit of Fear

God Has Not Given Us the Spirit of Fear

By Deborah H. Bateman

2 Timothy 1:7

Second Timothy 1:7 tells us, "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind".

Have you ever experienced the spirit of fear? Is there something you are afraid of doing? Do you have a fear of heights? Or, is there something else you are afraid of? The Bible tells us the spirit of fear does not come from God. It is a tactic of the devil to hold us back, to keep us from reaching our God given destiny. You must guard your hearts against the attacks of the enemy.

If you let the spirit of fear overtake you it can cripple you. It can cause you not to perform in the way God wants you to. It can hold you back from accomplishing all God wants you to. Don't let the spirit of fear keep you from doing what God has for you to do.

In 2 Timothy 1: 7 we are reminded that God gives us a spirit of power, and love and a sound mind. We need to continuously remind ourselves of this. If you come into a time in your life when you feel overwhelmed by the spirit of fear, quote this Scripture to yourself over and over until you overcome the spirit of fear.

In the book of Esther, Esther was put in a position to stand up for the Jews. She must have been afraid to approach the king, knowing it could cost her life, if he wasn't accepting of her. Esther was wise because she realized she needed God to be on her side, so she spent three days fasting and praying to be sure she was in line with God's will and had God's favor on the situation. She also asked others to fast and pray along with her and to come into agreement with her that God's will would be done.

When Esther went before the king, God gave her courage. It wasn't an easy thing for her to do, not knowing what the outcome would be. Esther put her life on the line for her people. Who does this remind you of? Jesus put His life on the cross for us, so we could be saved. Both, Esther and Jesus were used by God to do His will. They both had to surrender their lives to God. Is there something God has asked you to do that you have let fear keep you from doing? Be like Esther and ask God to give you courage and strength to do His will.

Things to think about:

- Is there anything you are afraid of?

- Have you turned that fear over to God?

- How can we remind ourselves that God is not the author of fear?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for this Scripture where we are reminded that You don't give us the spirit of fear. You give us the spirit of love, power and a sound mind. Help us to remember this. Help us to surrender our lives to Your will. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 4 I Must Be About My Father's Business

I Must Be About My Father's Business

By Deborah H. Bateman

Luke 2:42-52

In this Scripture we have a record of a time when Jesus was twelve years old He went to Jerusalem with Joseph and Mary, which was their yearly custom. But, this time was different because when Joseph and Mary left to go back home Jesus failed to come with them. He stayed behind at the temple without His parent’s knowledge.

Mary and Joseph were about a day’s journey away when they looked for Him and He was nowhere to be found. You know they must have been frightened when they couldn't find Him. Have you ever taken your children shopping or somewhere and looked around and couldn't find them? If so, you know the fright Jesus’ parents must have felt in their hearts and the pain that must have been in the pit of their stomachs.

They turned around and went back to Jerusalem to search for Him and found Him at the temple. When they found him at the temple they asked Him why he stayed behind and told Him they had been looking for Him and were worried about Him and His safety. Jesus answered them, "How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?” His parents didn't understand what He was talking about, so they took Him back with them to Nazareth.

Even Jesus knew it was not about Him, but about obeying His Heavenly Father. It was about serving God and obeying His will. We were all created by God for a purpose. Jesus' purpose was to be the Savior of the world. Jesus knew He needed to be near the Father to learn more and draw strength from the Heavenly Father to fulfill His destiny.

In the book of Esther, Esther was in the king's palace. She could have wondered why she was there. Was it her beauty that landed her in the king's palace? Maybe so, but she realized she may have been there for a higher purpose when her relative Mordecai asked her to plead for the life of her people before the king.

She could have ignored Mordecai's request. She could have been concerned only about her own wellbeing, but she loved Mordecai and cared about the Jewish people. God had her in the palace for a purpose. He used Esther's influence with the king to save the Jewish people. Esther realized she had a greater purpose. She was about the Father's business. God used Esther in a mighty way to save the Jewish people. Esther knew she needed God's strength and favor to fulfill her destiny.

Are you about the Father's business? Have you asked Him if there was something He wants you to do? Maybe God has you where you are for a reason, as Esther was in the king's palace at the appointed time. Maybe there is someone where you work God wants you to witness to.

Pray and ask God to show you His purpose for you and what He wants you to do. Then, when He shows you, obey Him. He may have a greater purpose for you than you can imagine. Follow God's will and see where He leads you.

Daily Bible Scripture:

Luke 2:42-52

42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.

43 And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not [of it].

44 But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among [their] kinsfolk and acquaintance.

45 And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.

46 And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.

47 And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.

48 And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.

49 And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?

50 And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.

51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

Things to think about:

- How do you think Mary and Joseph felt when they couldn't find Jesus?

- Why was Jesus surprised they were looking for Him?

- Where was Jesus when they found Him?

- Why was He there?

- What did He tell them?

- Are you about your heavenly Father's business?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for this Scripture, where we see Jesus saying He was about His Father's business. We realize He was committed to doing Your will. Help us to be committed to doing Your will, as Jesus was. Show us Your will for our lives and help us to obey and walk in Your will. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 5 Four Ways to Draw Closer to Your Spouse

Four Ways to Draw Closer to Your Spouse

By Penny Zeller

Mark 10:6-9

In December of 2009, my grandpa passed away after over fifty years of marriage to my grandma. Even as a child, I could see the love between my grandparents and wanted to model my own marriage after theirs.

Yes, my grandparents disagreed, argued, and fought at times. But they also laughed, rejoiced, and brought love, inspiration, and blessing to the lives of their family members. They had many wonderful times in their marriage, but they also went through extreme hardships, including an accident that left my grandfather disabled at a young age with five children and a wife to support.

In the last months of my grandpa’s life, he was an invalid and my grandma stood by his side, caring for him, loving him, and singing hymns to comfort him in his last days.

My grandma said the days she had with my grandpa passed by so quickly. So how can we make the most of our days with the one the Lord gave us to love and cherish?

Below are four suggestions for drawing closer to your spouse.

1. Take time alone with your spouse. Plan lunch once a week, a weekend getaway, or a specific night as your “date night.” Time alone without your kids is crucial.

2. Take time to forgive. Are there things that bother you about your spouse? Pray God will help you to forgive. Pray not that God will change your spouse, but that He would change the way you respond to the things your spouse does. Pray you would respond in a God-honoring way and draw upon His grace to do just that!

3. Take time to be thoughtful. My husband Lon loves no-bake cookies. I routinely make these cookies for him as a way to show him how much I love him.

As a writer of Christian romance, Lon shows his love for me by listening to the latest chapter, even though Christian romance novels are far from his list of favorite genres!

Leave each other notes in the morning, call each other, or send each other emails/texts in the middle of the day. Lon and I have a “running” note where we try to cram all we can on a little piece of paper that carries through every morning throughout the week. It can be silly, lovey-dovey, or a combination of both!

4. Take time for humor. Together Lon and I love to write humor blogs, watch our favorite Christian comedians, and read the funny emails we receive. Whatever you do, take some time for humor – just the two of you.

What a precious gift the Lord has given you in your spouse. Take the time to relish your time together – something that will only further cement the love that binds together what God created – marriage.

Daily Bible Scripture:

Mark 10:6-9

6 But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female.

7 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife;

8 And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.

9 What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

My reflection on this devotional:

In The Book of Esther: A Story of Love and Favor, Esther married the king. Can you imagine being married to a king? You think you have a lot going on in your life, but Esther had a lot to deal with being married to a king.

Things to think about:

- For those of you who are married, do you thank God for your spouse?

- Do you do your best to get along with your spouse?

- Are you forgiving toward your spouse?

- Do you set aside special time to spend together as a couple?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father:

For those of us who are married, Lord, we thank You for our spouses. Help us to have a good relationship with them. Help us to be forgiving and thoughtful. Help us to enjoy our time together and share our love for each other. In Jesus' name, we ask it. Amen.

Lesson 6 Forgive, Forgive, Forgive

Forgive, Forgive, Forgive

By Katherine Harms

Matthew 18:21-22

In the story of Esther, one character is almost as unforgettable as Esther herself: the villain Haman. People are usually so focused on his villainy that they forget that his real problem is an unwillingness to forgive. When Mordecai fails to bow down before Haman, Haman’s pride is injured, and he cannot forgive Mordecai for this wound. The humiliation of later being required to honor Mordecai only deepens the wound. Esther’s story of courage is built on the foundation of Haman’s unwillingness to let go of his pride and forgive Mordecai.

The outcome of Haman’s unforgiving attitude was the near destruction of the Jewish community in Persia. If simple revenge could have satisfied Haman, he could have used his power to arrest and imprison Mordecai. However, like most people consumed with an unwillingness to forgive, Haman needed more. He needed revenge, vengeance that would completely crush Mordecai and everyone who might possibly mean anything to Mordecai.

Some people think an eye for an eye is simple mathematical justice, but people who cannot forgive refuse to be satisfied even with that sort of justice. Getting even is not enough. They need payback. The more they dwell on the insult they cannot forgive, the more payback they need. This was Haman’s problem. The story of Esther includes gruesome details of the kind of destruction that can result from an unforgiving spirit.

Jesus teaches us to live a different way. When Jesus taught us to pray, he said we should ask God’s forgiveness in tandem with our own practice of forgiving others. When Peter asked how often we should forgive a person, Jesus answered, “Seventy-seven times,” an answer that simply means we should not keep accounts of forgiveness.

Jesus said that instead of thinking an eye for an eye was justice, we should love our enemies and pray for them. Jesus asked us to do what Haman could not do: forgive and forgive and forgive. Then Jesus showed us how to do it, praying “Father, forgive them,” as he was being nailed to a cross.

It is hard to forgive people who have hurt us. Jesus said that if we want to be like him, we need to be dragging our own crosses around wherever we go, ready to be nailed to them as he was. Whenever we feel that the nails are being driven in, we are called to respond just as he did, by praying, “Father, forgive them.”

Daily Bible Scripture:

Matthew 18:21-22 (NRSV)

21 Then Peter came and said to him, “Lord, if another member of the church[[a]] sins against me, how often should I forgive? As many as seven times?” 22 Jesus said to him, “Not seven times, but, I tell you, seventy-seven[[b]] times.

My reflections on this devotional:

In the book of Esther, Haman let his pride stand in the way of forgiving Mordecai. Is pride standing in your way of forgiving someone today? If so, ask God to remove that pride and help you to forgive.

Things to think about:

- Do you have a forgiving spirit?

- Is there someone you need to forgive?

- If so, can you ask God to help you to forgive them?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for Your forgiveness. We thank You for Your Son, who died for our sins so we could be forgiven. Help us to follow your example of forgiveness and be more forgiving. Help us not to hold grudges against others. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 7 Praise

Praise

By Dave Moore

Psalm 150:6

Praise is the expression of approval, commendation, or admiration usually of a deity, ruler or hero. In my mind and in my praise, Jehovah God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are my God, my Lord, and my Hero. From the first moment that God opened my spiritual eyes and showed me the truth that He is real, that He loves me, hears my prayers, and most importantly that His Son Jesus died for me, I have loved to praise the Lord.

Many people think that the best time to praise the Lord is when we are at church on Sunday. Praising God together with our brothers and sisters in Christ is a very satisfying and faith building time. Singing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs along with the many instruments of music blesses the Lord with praise. But we should be living a life that praises God all day, every day. Loving the things that God loves and hating the things that God hates praises the Lord.

Telling people our testimony of what great things God has done in our lives is praising the Lord. Jesus said in Matthew 5:16 that if we let our light shine people will see our good deeds and give glory and praise to God. Praise is also a most powerful weapon against Satan and just as we put on our clothing daily we should put on a garment of praise daily. Satan does not like to listen to our praise to God and whenever he comes against you begin to praise and thank and give God the glory and the enemy will flee from you.

In times of praise in my prayer room and in church I have felt the presence of God in many different ways. I have felt His presence completely fill the room as if He was going right through me. I have smelled His presence like the aroma of a thousand beautiful wildflowers. I have heard Him speak into my spirit and envelope me in a sea of bright light. I am not ashamed to lift my hands, run, shout, or cry torrents of tears of joy in my praise. Isaiah 38:19-20 says; “The living, they shall thank and praise You, as I do this day; the father shall make known to the children Your faithfulness and Your truth. The Lord is ready to save deliver me; therefore we will sing my songs with stringed instruments all the days of our lives in the house of the Lord. Psalms 150:6 “Let everything that has breath and every breath of life praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)” (Amplified) I will praise You forever my Lord!

My reflection on this devotional:

In The Book of Esther: A Story of Love and Favor, the PURIM Celebration was started by Esther and Mordecai as a way of praising God, not only in the days of Esther, but forever.

Things to think about:

- Do you enjoy praising the Lord?

- What are some of the things you like to praise Him for?

- In what ways do you praise Him?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for this post about praise. Help us to do as Your word says and praise You every day and in every way. In Jesus name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 8 From Brokenness to Beauty

From Brokenness to Beauty

By Marlo Schalesky

Romans 9:13

As it is written: “See, I lay in Zion a stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” (Romans 9:33 NIV)

I sat on a large boulder at the beach and watched the waves crash against the rocky shore.  The surf pounded against the rocks, splashed over them, glittered with myriad colors.

I studied the waves and felt their brokenness.  I was broken too, by prayers that seemed unanswered, dreams that died, hurts that went too deep for words.  I was like the water, crashing up against the immovable rock of God’s will.  All my tears, all my frustrations, all the disappointments, like dark, murky waves in my soul.

My gaze fell on the surf again, on the strange color of greenish black.  It, too, was dark and ugly, until it crashed against the rock.

Spray splashed up in an arc of pure, clean white.  Then, it changed, reflecting a rainbow of color from the sunlight.  And for that moment, it wasn’t dark.  It wasn’t murky.  It was stunningly beautiful, but only when it was broken on the rocks.

And I wondered, was I like the surf?  Is it only when I am broken on Jesus, my Rock, that I reflect the light, shine with a rainbow of colors?  Perhaps it is then that I am able to be molded in his shape, just like the water molds to the shape of the stone when falls back to the rock.  Then, the darkness is cleansed, the ugliness transformed, the water beautiful to behold.

Only Jesus can do that.

As I sat there at the water’s edge, I began to see that real faith, true faith, doesn’t mean never doubting, never struggling, never being broken.  Rather, true faith casts itself against the Rock.  It keeps coming back, despite the darkness, despite the hurt.  Faith arcs up from brokenness.  It surrenders to the will of the immovable stone, and so it is transformed into a thing of wonder and beauty.

Only in brokenness can it be filled with color and light.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY:  Place a rock under a running faucet and observe the way the water changes to conform to the shape of the rock.  Then, set the rock in a prominent place as a reminder of how Jesus can transform your brokenness into beauty.

My reflection on this devotional:

No doubt Esther was broken by the death of her parents at such a young age, but her beauty out-shined her brokenness. God's love shined in her life, His favor overshadowed her and she became the Queen of the Persian Empire.

Things to think about:

- Were you a little rough around the edges?

- Has God cleansed you through the blood of Jesus?

- If not, why not allow Him to change your brokenness to beauty?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You that You transform our lives. The blood of Jesus cleanses us and takes our brokenness and makes us new creatures of beauty. Help us to rely on Him to help us through the rough times in our lives. Help us to be molded into what You would have us to be. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 9 Un-forgiveness

Un-forgiveness

By Judith Robl

Mark 11:25-26

And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses. (Mark 11:25-26)

God gave us the right to make choices. That includes the choice to forgive or not to forgive. You see, forgiveness and un-forgiveness are not emotions. They are decisions.

But they are decisions that we can choose to make.  I chose to make that decision.

When my daughter married, it was a joyous occasion. The groom’s parents were long standing friends of ours. We had watched this young man grow from middle school years onward. It was only much later that anything developed between our daughter and their son.

Our daughter and son-in-law was a lovely couple with three children, two sons and a daughter.  They were ensconced in a good church, relatively secure financially, and things seemed to be going well in their lives.

Then, out of the blue, we got a phone call. Our daughter had been injured and was in the hospital. Could we come? When we reached the hospital where our daughter had been taken, we discovered that our son-in-law had murdered the three children and very nearly our daughter as well.

This young man I had loved as the son of a friend had become a monster I did not recognize. Grief overwhelmed me. Anger, disbelief, incredulity all poked their way into my mind and heart. But I chose to remember that we are called to forgive.

There are three parts to forgiveness.

Part one is to absolve from payment. What payment could I exact for the loss of three grandchildren? “An eye for an eye” would not replace the years I expected to have with those little ones. Monetary value would be impossible to assess, even if he were able to provide it. It was an impossible debt to repay. So I took that one off the table. Impossible is still impossible.

The second part of forgiveness is more personal. It is to renounce anger and resentment against the offender. That doesn’t mean I need to have good feelings about the offender. It simply means that I need to say out loud that I decide not to hold a grudge. Anger would flare, and I would repeat out loud my decision not to be angry or resentful.

Oh, I needed to tell myself (and the enemy) out loud about ten times an hour in the beginning. Eventually it tapered off, so I didn’t have to do it but once an hour. Then an hour or two would pass without my having to say it. After ten years, I can go whole days at a time without the anger flaring and having to renounce it again.  But I dare not let my guard down. The moment I do, the enemy is right back at me, flaring the anger, touching the nerves.

This doesn’t change the facts, and it doesn’t do anything for the offender. It does free me to be who God intended I should be.  And that’s the point.

The third part of forgiveness is to excuse for a fault or offense. But there are certain things that it is beyond people to forgive. Taking a life is one of those things. You see, the life that was taken doesn’t belong to any of us. That life belonged to God. Only God can excuse a murderer. That is between God and the offender. We have no business in the middle of that.

I don’t need to know whether God decides to forgive him or not. I simply need to agree with God that whatever He does is right.

My job is to be able to look at the offense for what it was. Look at the offender impartially for his part in the offense, without anger or resentment.  And then to see the offender through the eyes of God, as a child who has strayed. One God wants desperately to bring back into the fold.

God’s love is big enough to forgive almost anything, if the offender repents and comes to Him for forgiveness and in acceptance of Christ’s love and sacrifice on his behalf.

My Reflections on this devotional:

Haman's un-forgiveness in the book of Esther cost his life. If there is someone who has done you wrong please don't hold onto it. Let it go to free you. God will deal with the offender. Ask God to help you forgive. Think about all the things God through Jesus Christ has forgiven us for.

First Link:  www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+6:14&version=KJV

Second Link: www.thefreedictionary.com/forgive

Things to think about:

- Do you have any un-forgiveness in your heart?

- Have you asked God to help you to forgive?

- How can we forgive things that are unthinkable?

Prayer of the day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your Son Jesus, who died on the cross for our sins. You have forgiven us for so much. Help us to forgive others. Some things seem almost impossible to forgive someone for, but we pray for Your grace and mercy to help us to forgive anyway. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 10 Thou Art Worthy

Thou Art Worthy

By Deborah H. Bateman

Revelation 5:1-14

I don't claim to know everything about the prophesy of the Bible, but there is something in this Scripture I wanted to share with you since we have been talking about praising God and the Lord, Jesus Christ.

John is describing a scene that he saw. He says he sees Him who sits on the throne which is believed to be God with a book that is sealed with seven seals. He hears an angel proclaiming, "Who is worthy to open the book?" No one is found worthy, which makes John cry, but an elder tells John to behold the Lion of Judah who is worthy to open the book.

Jesus is referred to as the Lion of Judah, the Messiah, and the lamb that was slain. The lion is a symbol of His strength, boldness, and courageous. As the lion is the king of all the beasts, Jesus is the king of kings. The lion also represents His vigilance. In the Old Testament Jesus was also known as the son of David and the root of David, since He was from David's blood line.

Read the Scripture and look at the way people worshipped and praise Jesus. This is what I wanted you to see from this Scripture. How can we use this example to worship and praise Him? The Bible tells us that the day will come when every knee will bow and worship Him, but we don't want to wait until then. How can we worship Him daily? Does this Scripture help you to see that He deserves our worship and praise?

In the book of Esther the Jewish people set up a special day called PURIM to celebrate their victory through God. Are there any special days or ways in your family that you celebrate God for who He is and what He has done in your life? It is important that we teach our children to praise and worship God through our example. How can we better honor both God and Jesus Christ through praise and worship?

Daily Devotions:

Revelation 5: 1-14

1 And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.

2 And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?

3 And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.

4 And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.

5 And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.

6 And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.

7 And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.

8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four [and] twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.

9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

11 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;

12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.

13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, [be] unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

14 And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four [and] twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.

Things to think about:

- What did you learn from this lesson about worshiping and praising God and the Lord, Jesus Christ?

- Have you accepted Jesus as the sacrifice for your sins?

- Can you see yourself in this scene?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for this Scripture, where we see how the people worshiped You and Your Son. Help us to learn from this example. Thank You for Your Son, who was sacrificed for our sins. Help us to honor Him and praise Him, for He is worthy. In Jesus' precious name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 11 Marriage – Love, Honor and…Obey?

Marriage – Love, Honor and…Obey?

By Lynn Dove

Colossians 3: 18-19

On June 2nd, my husband and I will celebrate our thirty-third wedding anniversary.  I suppose that may be considered a significant milestone when we consider how many couples today don’t stay the course together and are divorced soon after the “I do’s”.  The sad fact is that most couples today get a few years into their marriage, discover that married life wasn’t what they thought it would be and they say  “I don’t!” and leave.

I think part of the problem with couples today is that they have a real problem with the idea of “Love, honour, and obey.”  I think the majority of young marrieds don’t have a problem with the concept of “love” per se but tack on honouring and obeying and the vows just fall apart.  Young couples are starry-eyed lovers.  They breathe romance and every touch, every smile; every word is savoured and cherished.  Every moment together is a never-ending romantic encounter and they envision a future of eternal devotion together…until…

One spouse gains a little weight, or loses a job, or gets sick,…suddenly the stars in their eyes stop twinkling as brightly.  Life interrupts the romance.

Honouring is a harder concept for young couples.  We love to be honoured, but it’s hard to show our spouses honour.  Honour means to pay homage to, to hold in respect or esteem, to show courteous behavior towards, and even to worship!  How can you honour someone you don’t respect?

But it is the last part of a marriage vow that finally sets a marriage into a tailspin…obeying.  Women, especially have a hard time with this last concept.  In a world that demands equality, obeying has so many negative connotations.  It requires submission.  It requires humbling oneself.  Women with a feministic streak cry out, “Never!” and marriages crumble.

In Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he writes in Colossians 3: 18-19 “Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them." (NIV)

Take note that while wives should “submit” (obey) their husbands; husbands are commanded to love their wives.  In the Greek translation, this requires the husband to be totally self-sacrificing for his wife and never ask her to do something that he would not be prepared to do for her.  The marriage is based on sacrificial love and mutual respect for one another.  It’s not based on “what can I get out of this?” but “what can I do to show my love for my spouse?”   Self-sacrificing love is unconditional and it is never-ending.

It is the same kind of love that Jesus demonstrated for us that “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”  (Romans 5:8).  “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”  (John 15:13)  “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all – how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?”  (Romans 8:32)  “Live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”  (Ephesians 5:2) (All NIV)

Are you treating your spouse with the love, honour and obedience (respect) that God would have you?  Are you showing the love of Christ to your spouse?  If not, prayerfully ask the Lord to show you how to love, honour and obey your spouse so you can be totally devoted and give preference to one another (Romans 12:10); be accepting of one another (Romans 15:7); care for one another (1 Corinthians 12:25); carry each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:2); forgive one another (Ephesians 4:32); encourage and build up one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11); spur one another on to love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24); confess your sins to one another and pray for one another (James 5:16).

My reflections on this devotional:

In The Book of Esther: A Story of Love and Favor, Esther was chosen to be the queen. Can you imagine being in a marriage you had no say so about? Can you imagine being in an arranged marriage? We don't have those too much, but there are still people who still follow this practice. God gives us good guidelines in His Word about how we should conduct ourselves within the marriage relationship.

Things to think about:

- Are you happily married?

- Do you honor and respect your spouse?

- Do you show love to your spouse?

- Do you spend quality time with your spouse?

- Are you thankful for the spouse God gave you?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for the relationship of marriage. We thank You that in Your word You laid down guidelines for us to follow in our relationship with our spouses. Help us to follow the guidelines You set forth and to have happy marriages that fulfill Your purpose. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 12 UNFORGIVENESS

UNFORGIVENESS

By: Buffy Crabtree

Psalm 32:1

Most of us like to model our life after our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

We strive to display His love and forgiveness.

For the most part we feel like we’re doing pretty well,

until we become stressed out from a hectic day at work

or an occasional evening at home when it seems nothing goes right.

But we can also throw love and forgiveness aside when we lose a loved one.

Do we feel like it could have been prevented?

When tragedy strikes, some people blame themselves,

condemn themselves, and punish themselves for the loss.

If only I had … If only we didn’t …

The pain is real. But such feelings are a negative phase of grief.

Do we always have control over everything that happens to us or to others?

Guilty, unforgiving feelings, whether based on truth or not,

may result in self-destructive behavior and need to be kept in check.

They never help us to move forward.

They always destroy any glimpse of hope we might feel.

Realizing that God plans our date of birth and

the date we will take our last breath might help us to forgive ourselves,

knowing these events were planned at the very beginning of time.

If we think we’re partly or wholly to blame for another’s mishap,

God can forgive us. All we need do is ask Him.

We should find strength in knowing that God can restore our sense of self-worth.

God has forgiven us. So we need to forgive ourselves.

Hold onto the promise that God can bring peace to our spirit.

What happiness for those whose guilt has been forgiven!

What joys when sins are covered over!

What relief for those who have confessed their sins

And God has cleared their record (Psalm 32:1 NLT)

Some of us blame others for the loss of our loved one.

Trying to cope with our hurt, we feel a need to lash out

and point a finger at someone else.

If we’re not careful, our unforgiveness can turn into bitterness.

And the one we’re hurting is ourselves

physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

God pleads with us to talk to Him about what’s going on inside us.

He understands and will help to heal our pain.

“You are forgiving and good, O Lord,

Abounding in love to all who call on you” (Psalm 86:5)

My Reflection on this devotional:

In the book of Esther Haman's un-forgiveness toward the Jews and specifically toward Mordecai cost Haman his life. Holding un-forgiveness in your heart is not good for you. It doesn't hurt the other person near as much as it hurts you. It can keep you from your God-given purpose. You need to let it go. Ask God to help you.

Things to think about:

- Are you holding un-forgiveness in your heart?

- Have you asked God to forgive you and come into your heart?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for Your forgiveness of our sins. We pray that You would help us to forgive ourselves for the things we have done wrong. Help us to forgive others and not to hold grudges against others. Comfort those who are hurting. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 13 Relationships

Relationships

By Deborah McCarragher

Genesis 2:4-25

God is the author of all relationships. It started in a mist-filled paradise called Eden, somewhere in modern day Persia. The Creator of everything wanted a relationship with His crown jewel – namely “man”. God recognized the need for companionship and created a “woman” from the man. A new relationship was forged that of husband and wife (Genesis 2:4-25).  God’s ultimate desire is to have a personal relationship with us.

In the book of Esther we find a young Jewish girl living in a foreign land with her older cousin. She had been orphaned and was left in the care of her relative; Mordecai was more of a father figure to her. That critical relationship was one of trust and endearment. Esther took the wise counsel of her cousin more than once while living among the king’s harem and concubines. She was one of the lovely young women being considered as a substitute for the Queen.

Her relationship to her groomers is another interesting point to ponder. Like Joseph in Egypt, Esther found favor with Hegai, custodian of the women, as well as the other eunuchs who tended to her during her beautification process. God had protected her throughout the process of her glamour treatments and preparations to go before King Ahasuerus. All who gazed upon her were enamored with her poise and beauty.

Another poignant relationship was that of Esther and Haman, the king’s right hand man. Esther never trusted him, and Mordecai had distain for him. Haman was wicked and vengeful – wanting all of the Jews exterminated from the kingdom of Shushan. Esther evaluated her relationship with this cowardly tyrant, and God gave her great wisdom and discernment concerning his evil ways.

Esther’s relationship with King Ashasuerus was one of intrigue and acceptance. He readily approved her approaching the throne to touch the tip of his scepter. He no doubt remembered her fragrance, her movements, and her presence. God’s providence surely catapulted her to the top of the list for the replacement Queen.

Lastly, Mordecai was rightly promoted in the king’s court because he revealed the plot against the king’s life. Their relationship was forged through trust and honor as evidenced by Mordecai’s gifts and commendations. God always promotes those who humble themselves under His authority.

Remember that the most important relationship is the one personally between you and Jesus Christ, Savior of the world (John 3:16-17).

My reflection on this devotional:

In the book of Esther there were a lot of different relationships for us to use as examples in our lives. In the end the most important relationship and the one that saved the Jewish people was their relationship with God. Had they not turned to God and sought His favor in the situation they were confronted with they may have all been destroyed.

Things to think about:

- If you are married, how is your relationship with your spouse?

- How is your relationship with your parents or the ones who play the parent role in your life?

- With whom have you found favor in your life?

- Has God given you a place of authority? If so, how do you treat those who are in your authority?

- Have you learned to be humble in your relationships?

- Most importantly, do you have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the relationship that we can have with You and Your Son if we are Christians. Thank You for all the other relationships You have given us in our lives, from family, friends, colleagues, church family, etc. Help us to have healthy, Godly, happy relationships. Help us to put them all in the right perspective. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 14 Conflict in Marriage

Conflict in Marriage

By Shawn Lamb

Ephesians 6:24b-25

When young couples first get married, they aren’t prepared for the long discussion and negotiations it takes during the early years to become acquainted with their partner.  Often those arguments end in frustration and each going to their respective corners with issues unresolved. This leads to hard feelings, resentment and pent up anger that doesn’t get released until the next go-round, if ever.

There are plenty of books and counselors for when difficulties arise pointing to Scripture about the responsibilities of men and women in the relationship. All of these are wonderful guidelines, but did you know there is a passage in Scripture that can help to avoid the pitfalls of marriage conflict at the start?

Ephesians 6:24b-25: Let not the sun go down upon your anger. Neither give place to the devil. (NKJV)

In verse 24, let not, in Greek means forbid, prevent and is written in the imperative, meaning a command. In verse 25 neither is a continuing negative in Greek and enhances the let not command in verse 24.  Give place to the devil implies consequences or the avoidance of consequences if the command of 24 is either implemented or ignored.  Each day a sun goes down on an unresolved issue, the more place is given to the enemy and the flesh to hold onto and nurse that injury or anger.

My husband Rob and I discovered these verses in the first year of our marriage and immediately put it into practice. I can’t begin to count how many nights we stayed up until the wee hours resolving an issue until we both felt the situation settled and a release to go to bed. Now, after twenty-seven years of marriage, we look back and thank the Lord for giving us His word to follow so soon after we wed. Those difficult conversations gave way to a peace and assurance of the other. The need to implement those verses have grown few and with years in-between.

The practice isn’t easy and requires the commitment of both to not let the issue go unresolved, and to seek the Lord in the midst of conflict. Yet I know from my own marriage, making such a commitment is well worth a few sleepless nights. God honors those who honor Him, and marriage is one of His sacraments.

Ask the Lord to grant you and your spouse the wisdom to practice His word in resolving issues in a way that honors Him. For in doing so, you will strengthen your marriage and your walk before God.

My Reflections on this devotional:

In the book of Esther, there was a period of over a month when the king hadn't asked for Esther to spend time with him. Can you imagine being married and not spending time together for that long? This is one of the reasons Esther was concerned about approaching the king. It is important we resolve our conflicts so we can keep the lines of communication open in our marriages.

Things to think about:

- How is your relationship with your spouse?

- How do you resolve conflict in your marriage?

- Do you let the sun go down on your wrath?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father:

Thank You for giving us guidelines in the Bible about our marriage relationship. Help us to follow those guidelines and resolve conflict in our marriages. We thank You for the spouse You gave us. Help us to have a loving, caring relationship with them. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 15 How to have Unity in Marriage

How to have Unity in Marriage

By Serge Roux-Levrat

Matthew 12:25

"Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand." (Matthew 12:25 - NIV)

Division is what has always broken apart couples, which is especially sad for Christian couples, as they are united through the Holy Spirit; they are one spiritually.

What does God require of couples to be successful and fruitful? They are to make efforts to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:3) Hence he orders wives to submit to their husbands in love, and husbands to submit to their heads, Jesus Christ, also in love. Jesus told them that if they do so, He would know that they truly love Him (John 14:15). Furthermore, as a result of this obedience, God would command upon them the blessings that go with unity (Psalm 133.3) such as abundance of love, joy, peace, happiness and contentment (no matter what they go through).

Of course, in God’s world, unity does not imply sameness. We see this clearly in the fact that there is one body of Christ, but many parts. (1 Corinthians 12) What does that mean for a couple? That there will be many differences, even in sins committed faith levels, understanding of God’s Word or ability to discipline thoughts, feelings, emotions and actions.

Needless to say, all these differences have the potential to tear couples apart if they do not fireproof their marriages through forgiveness. Why forgiveness? Because it is the main cost spouses have to pay to maintain the unity of the Spirit. In fact, forgiveness is so important to spiritual unity that: a) Ephesians 4:27 orders us not to let the sun go down while we are still angry at each other and b) Matthew 6:15 tells us clearly that God will not forgive us if we do not forgive those who have hurt us.

If we value more the relationship with our spouse than our own well-being, then we have no choice but to put aside our pride or bitterness and to activate the power of forgiveness whenever our unity is endangered.  If we truly love our spouse, then we cannot let our differences divide us, or put enmity and hatred between us. We must realize that what unites us is stronger than what can divide us. As the old saying goes, united we stand, divided we fall.

My reflections on this devotional:

In the book of Esther, when Esther had to go before the king after a long time of division in their relationship, God gave Esther favor with her husband. It was against the laws of the land for anyone to approach the king without his permission. This whole story could have ended much differently if God had not given Esther favor with the king. How do you keep from having division with your spouse?

Things to think about:

- How do you try to keep unity with your spouse?

- Do you have the blessings of the Lord on your marriage?

- Do you follow God's principles for a happy marriage?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for giving us instruction in the Bible on how to have unity with our spouse. Help us to follow Your guidance so we do not have division in our family. Help us to set an example before our children by how we treat each other. Help us to have Godly homes and relationships. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 16 Un-forgiveness in Our Hearts

Un-forgiveness in Our Hearts

By Lily Brenner

Matthew 6:14-15

When we have un-forgiveness in our hearts it creates hardships even death. It affects our ability to praise GOD, impacts relationships in marriage, with our children and others. In the book of Esther there was a man named Haman who had un-forgiveness in his heart toward Mordecai the Jew, and it caused Haman’s death.

In our daily living we experience people saying and doing things to us that will require us to forgive them. Should we choose not to forgive we will be the one who will feel the negative outcome. This choice will hurt our walk with the Lord and He states it plainly in His word, “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew 6:14-15, NLT)

Un-forgiveness causes loss of joy, peace, harmony with people and peace in our mind and heart. We search for replacements for these in worldly ways like buying things that give us temporary pleasure. Some may turn to drugs or alcohol, joining clubs or throwing themselves into their work. Why we even keep busy in the work of the Lord! Replacements never work in place of forgiveness. Jesus showed us in His life how we should forgive and left us these words to help us in today’s world in Matthew 11:30 “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

I mentioned that un-forgiveness can cause death, premature death in some cases. Death can come from a bitter mind that dwells on an experience in anger. If left unchecked the anger could cause a stroke or heart attack resulting in death.

There may have been a time in life when forgiving was very hard and we felt the price was too great. We may be there right now, and that’s when we need to remember the price Jesus paid on the cross.  He left us one final example of forgiveness, “Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted His raiment, and cast lots.” (Luke 23:34). Jesus forgave while suffering on the cross and then died for us!

My reflection on this devotional:

In the book of Esther, un-forgiveness cost Haman his life. Have you held any un-forgiveness in your heart? Ask God to search your heart today and reveal to you if there is any un-forgiveness in it. Ask him to help you to forgive and bring healing to your heart.

Things to think about:

- Is it worth it to hold un-forgiveness in your heart?

- What was the greatest example of forgiveness?

- How can we use this example to help us to be more forgiving?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your ultimate example of forgiveness. Help us to follow Your example. Help us to forgive even when we don't feel like forgiving. Give us the strength to do it anyway. Help us not to hold un-forgiveness in our hearts. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 17 God is Not Mad at You

God is Not Mad at You

By Heidi Faith

Romans 5:6-11

You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. (Romans 5:6-11 NIV)

Do you ever wonder if the tribulations you are enduring are a result of God's wrath? Do you ever feel that God must surely be mad at you? Do you ever feel too ashamed with yourself--or even too angry with God to present your circumstances to God in prayer?

Paul tells us that our relationship with God is not based on our own merits, efforts, or good works, but is simply based on faith. It is through this faith that we are justified -- just as if we've never sinned. It is important to reframe our thinking as we endure suffering: instead of holding the belief that we are condemned, that we are victims of God's unpredictable attacks on us, and therefore instead of accusing God of injustice or ourselves of being unforgiveable, we need to realize that through the dark veil of suffering is the glorious opportunity to actually see God more clearly. Matthew 10:27 tells us that God speaks to us in the dark, so that we speak His truth in the daylight. The daylight will come. Psalm 23:4 tells us not to fear evil as we walk through the valley of the shadow of death. Not even the valley of the shadow of death is a trap to ensnare us. We will walk through it. In John 11, Lazarus becomes ill, and Jesus responds to this news in John 11:4: This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it.

You see, we are not only given the hope of discovering God's presence in the midst of our darkest tribulations--we in fact have a responsibility to find Him in them.

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” (Romans 5:3-5 NIV)

Whatever valley you are walking through, keep going. Keep enduring. Keep looking. You will find Him. And when you do, He will reveal something important to you. He promises.

My reflections on this devotional:

In the book of Esther, Esther may have wondered if God was mad at her. She feared for her life and the life of the Jewish people. But, she turned her situation over to God in prayer and He heard and answered her prayers.

Things to think about:

- Do you ever feel God is mad at you?

- Do you ever wonder why bad things happen to good people?

- Do you share your concerns with God?

- Do you find comfort in bringing your concerns to Him in prayer?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for Your Son, Jesus whom You sent to live on this earth and to die on the cross to cover our sins. We thank You that You loved us so much and that You are not mad at us, but want us to live for You. Help us to surrender our hearts and lives to Your will in our life. In Jesus’ name, we pray. We love You, LORD. Amen.

Lesson 18 My Soul Longs for You, O God

My Soul Longs for You, O God

By Deborah H. Bateman

Psalm 42:1-11

This Psalm is to the chief Musician Maschil, for the sons of Korah. The Psalm talks about longing for God, as the deer longs for the water brook. Have you ever thirsted after God? Have you ever desired to be in His presence so much you longed for Him? Sometimes we don't realize the longing in our hearts is for God.

Jesus says in John 4: 14 "But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." (KJV)

Obviously this had been a sad time for the Psalmist because he says, "My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where [is] thy God?" He was despondent and blue because of the oppression of his enemy. Sometimes it seems the circumstances of life overwhelm us and we become despondent and blue. If we can remember in these times to focus on God and how much He loves us instead of our circumstances, it will help lift our spirits.

The answer to our problems is in verse 11, where it says hope in God and praises Him. If we Hope in God and find the strength to praise Him in spite of our circumstances we will gain the strength to go through whatever our circumstances are. We can find the answer to our problems through seeking God.

In The Book of Esther: A Story of Love and Favor the Jewish people were cast down because of the enemy’s attempt to destroy them. But, when they turned their hearts to God, He helped to direct them and changed the direction of the situation. Have you ever been in situation where after you turned to God, you saw a complete turnaround in the situation?

Daily Bible Scripture:

Psalm 42:1-11

1 [[To the chief Musician, Maschil, for the sons of Korah.]] As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.

2 My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?

3 My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where [is] thy God?

4 When I remember these [things], I pour out my soul in me: for I had gone with the multitude, I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept holyday.

5 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and [why] art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him [for] the help of his countenance.

6 O my God, my soul is cast down within me: therefore will I remember thee from the land of Jordan, and of the Hermonites, from the hill Mizar.

7 Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts: all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me.

8 [Yet] the LORD will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song [shall be] with me, [and] my prayer unto the God of my life.

9 I will say unto God my rock, Why hast thou forgotten me? why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?

10 [As] with a sword in my bones, mine enemies reproach me; while they say daily unto me, Where [is] thy God?

11 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, [who is] the health of my countenance, and my God.

Things to think about:

- Do you thirst for God?

- Do you ever feel despondent and blue due to your circumstances?

- Have you turned your heart to God?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for this Scripture in the book of Psalms. Help us to thirst after You. Help us to desire to be in Your presence. You are our creator, our provider, our protector, our comforter, our Savior and our Lord. Help us to long for You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 19 Safe in His Hands

Safe in His Hands

By Lisa Buffaloe

John 10:28-29

“I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.  My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand.” John 10:28-29 (ESV)

Have you ever been in a body of water completely panicked, with arms flailing, thinking you’re drowning, when in reality all you had to do was lower your feet and stand?

I’ve been there, done that. Rather embarrassing, but very comforting when those toes touch sand or Terra firma.

Which got me to wondering, how many times as Christians do we flounder, flap, and flail in the midst of our circumstances?

How often do we forget Jesus says, “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand”?

Stop, rest, think about, and relish that wonderful truth.

No matter what difficulties we face, we really are always safe in God’s hands and firmly planted in His love. And when we take the time to be still, and remember God is in control our flailing stops. Be still in Hebrew means to sink down, let drop, be quiet, or relax.

How awesome we can lean back, confident in the palm of God’s Hands. We are always held secure in the loving hands of Jesus.

If you would be willing, sit in your favorite, most comfortable chair and imagine you are lovingly held by God. Take a deep breath, lean back, and relax in the knowledge that no matter where you are or what is happening, God’s hands will never let you fall.

My reflection on this devotional:

In the book of Esther when Esther had to go before the king to plead for the life of her people, she had to put her life in God's hands. She didn't know how King Xerxes would react. She knew it was against protocol for anyone to approach the king without being summonsed. She also knew he could have her executed for such an act, but she put her faith and trust in God and He gave her favor with the king. Have you put the circumstances of your life in the hands of God?

Things to think about:

- Have you turned your heart and life over to God?

- Do you feel safe in God's hands?

- Have you learned to trust God with your whole life?

- Do you know how much God loves you and wants to have a relationship with you?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for the promise from this Scripture that we are safe in Your hands. We thank You that no matter what we are going through in this life we can put our trust and faith in You to see us through it. Help us to lean on You, to trust You and to know that You love us unconditionally. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 20 Hope in God

Hope in God

By Deborah H. Bateman

Psalm 43:1-5

The Psalmist begs God to judge him, to plead his case against the enemy and deliver him. He says, God is his strength or refuge and asks why God has rejected him. Have you ever felt like God has deserted you? Have you ever wondered if He heard your prayers?

The Psalmist asks God to shine His light and truth on him and to lead him to God's dwelling place. He says, God is his joy. He declares he will praise God with his harp. Have you ever felt discouraged or depressed due to your circumstances? The Psalmist reminds himself and us to have hope in God and praise Him. He proclaims that God is his helper.

I can tell you from personal experience that if somehow you can stop focusing on your situations and put your focus on God and praise Him, He will encourage you and help you get through your situation. As long as you focus on your circumstances you will be defeated, but when you switch your focus to God your circumstances have to take a back seat. God is bigger than all of our circumstances.

In the book of Esther, the circumstances of the Jewish people were devastating. They were in sackcloth and ashes worrying about their future. Esther asked them to spend three days with her fasting and praying and God turned their situation around. They took their focus off of their circumstances and put their focus, trust, and faith in God and He saw them through their situation. Have you put your hope in God?

Daily Bible Scripture:

Psalm 43:1-5

1 Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation: O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man.

2 For thou [art] the God of my strength: why dost thou cast me off? why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?

3 O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles.

4Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God.

5 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, [who is] the health of my countenance, and my God.

Things to think about:

- Have you ever been distressed because of your circumstances?

- Did you refocus and put your eyes on God?

- Has God helped you to get through a difficult situation?

- If you are going through a difficult time right now put your focus on God and He will help you get through it.

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father:

We thank You for this Scripture in the book of Psalms. We thank You that no matter what we are going through with Your help we can make it. Help us to put our faith, trust, and hope in You. In Jesus name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 21 God's Favor

God's Favor

By Deborah H. Bateman

Psalm 44:1-26

The Psalmist says they heard from their father's how God helped them to defeat the enemy and drive them out of the land. They didn't do it on their own accord, but by the favor of God. Have you ever been in a position where you knew it was God's favor that gave you victory?

When we look at this Scripture and we look at other Scriptures in the Bible, we see how God's favor on people's lives changed the outcome. We can look back and see things that happened in our lives that were devastating, but somehow God brought us through them. Somehow He took what the enemy meant for evil in our life and turned it to good. God used it for His honor and glory to further His kingdom.

In the book of Esther it was God's favor that changed the circumstances of the death sentence for the Jewish people and helped them to defeat the enemy who sought to destroy them. The Bible tells us the enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy, but Christ came that we might have life to the fullest; abundant, and overflowing. Don't let the enemy steal your joy in life. We can't fight him with our own strength. Let God fill your life with His presence, His favor, His grace, His mercy and His love.

Daily Bible Scripture:

Psalm 44:1-26

1 [[To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, Maschil.]] We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have told us, [what] work thou didst in their days, in the times of old.

2 [How] thou didst drive out the heathen with thy hand, and plantedst them; [how] thou didst afflict the people, and cast them out.

3 For they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them: but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance, because thou hadst a favour unto them.

4 Thou art my King, O God: command deliverances for Jacob.

5 Through thee will we push down our enemies: through thy name will we tread them under that rise up against us.

6 For I will not trust in my bow, neither shall my sword save me.

7 But thou hast saved us from our enemies, and hast put them to shame that hated us.

8 In God we boast all the day long, and praise thy name for ever. Selah.

9 But thou hast cast off, and put us to shame; and goest not forth with our armies.

10 Thou makest us to turn back from the enemy: and they which hate us spoil for themselves.

11 Thou hast given us like sheep [appointed] for meat; and hast scattered us among the heathen.

12 Thou sellest thy people for nought, and dost not increase [thy wealth] by their price.

13 Thou makest us a reproach to our neighbours, a scorn and a derision to them that are round about us.

14 Thou makest us a byword among the heathen, a shaking of the head among the people.

15 My confusion [is] continually before me, and the shame of my face hath covered me,

16 For the voice of him that reproacheth and blasphemeth; by reason of the enemy and avenger.

17 All this is come upon us; yet have we not forgotten thee, neither have we dealt falsely in thy covenant.

18 Our heart is not turned back, neither have our steps declined from thy way;

19Though thou hast sore broken us in the place of dragons, and covered us with the shadow of death.

20 If we have forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a strange god;

21 Shall not God search this out? for he knoweth the secrets of the heart.

22 Yea, for thy sake are we killed all the day long; we are counted as sheep for the slaughter.

23 Awake, why sleepest thou, O Lord? arise, cast [us] not off for ever.

24 Wherefore hidest thou thy face, [and] forgettest our affliction and our oppression?

25 For our soul is bowed down to the dust: our belly cleaveth unto the earth.

26 Arise for our help, and redeem us for thy mercies' sake.

Things to think about:

- Do you have the favor of God on your life?

- Can you look back in your life and see where God made a difference in your life?

- How can you use those experiences to move your faith forward knowing if God helped you in the past He will help you with whatever is going on in your life now? Turn it all over to Him.

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for this Scripture in the book of Psalms. Help us to seek Your face and turn to You for deliverance. Help us to keep serving You and loving You no matter what the circumstances of life are. Give us favor and help us to win the battle over the enemy. Redeem us for Your sake and help us to give You honor and glory. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 22 A Song of Love

A Song of Love

By Deborah H. Bateman

Psalm 45:1-17

This Psalm is to the chief musician upon Shoshannim, which is a lily. It represents Christ as the Lily of the Valley. This is a Psalm of the sons of Korah. It is a wedding song (song of love). This Psalm is considered a Messianic Psalm, which means it refers to Jesus. The Scripture speaks of a queen and king, which is representative of Christ; the king coming back for the queen, His bride, the church.

God's throne is forever, He is anointed with the oil of gladness because He loves righteousness and hates wickedness. He came that we might have joy. These Scriptures are referred to in Hebrews 1 and Revelation 19.

Who is Jesus? Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus is considered to be the Bridegroom of the church. How does He look at us as His bride? Believers are considered to be the bride of Christ. If you are a believer you are His bride. He loves you. He wants to spend time with you. In the same way we miss Him if we don't spend time with Him, He misses us. He desires to have an intimate relationship with us.

Notice how the Scripture talks about the queen being adorned for the king. As Christians we should adorn ourselves with praise, truth, and righteousness. We need to prepare for the bridegroom's coming. We need to worship and praise Him. We need to listen for His voice.

In the last verse the Psalmist says, "I will make thy name to be remembered in all generations: therefore shall the people praise thee for ever and ever." (Psalm 45:7)

In the book of Esther, the king chose Esther to be his bride. He loved her. She was beautiful to Him. We are chosen by Christ to be His bride. The PURIM Celebration was a way for the people of Esther's day to make God's name known for generations and His praises to be lifted up throughout the ages.

Daily Bible Scripture:

Psalm 45:1-17

1 [[To the chief Musician upon Shoshannim, for the sons of Korah, Maschil, A Song of loves.]] My heart is inditing a good matter: I speak of the things which I have made touching the king: my tongue [is] the pen of a ready writer.

2 Thou art fairer than the children of men: grace is poured into thy lips: therefore God hath blessed thee for ever.

3 Gird thy sword upon [thy] thigh, O [most] mighty, with thy glory and thy majesty.

4 And in thy majesty ride prosperously because of truth and meekness [and] righteousness; and thy right hand shall teach thee terrible things.

5 Thine arrows [are] sharp in the heart of the king's enemies; [whereby] the people fall under thee.

6 Thy throne, O God, [is] for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom [is] a right sceptre.

7 Thou lovest righteousness, hathand hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.

8 All thy garments [smell] of myrrh, and aloes, [and] cassia, out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have made thee glad.

9 Kings' daughters [were] among thy honourable women: upon thy right hand did stand the queen in gold of Ophir.

10 Hearken, O daughter, and consider, and incline thine ear; forget also thine own people, and thy father's house;

11 So shall the king greatly desire thy beauty: for he [is] thy Lord; and worship thou him.

12 And the daughter of Tyre [shall be there] with a gift; [even] the rich among the people shall intreat thy favour.

13 The king's daughter [is] all glorious within: her clothing [is] of wrought gold.

14 She shall be brought unto the king in raiment of needlework: the virgins her companions that follow her shall be brought unto thee.

15 With gladness and rejoicing shall they be brought: they shall enter into the king's palace.

16 Instead of thy fathers shall be thy children, whom thou mayest make princes in all the earth.

17 I will make thy name to be remembered in all generations: therefore shall the people praise thee for ever and ever.

Things to think about:

- Are you prepared to enter into the king's palace?

- Have you accepted Jesus as your king?

- How can we prepare for His coming?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for this Scripture. We thank You for Your Son, Jesus. Help us to love righteousness and hate wickedness as You do. As Your bride, help us to get ready for the time when You come back for us. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 23 God Is Our Refuge

God Is Our Refuge

By Deborah H. Bateman

Psalm 46:1-11

This song was to the chief musician or the director of music. A Song upon Alamoth is believed to be a musical term meaning it is a song for soprano voices. I love the first verse: "God [is] our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." What does the word refuge mean? It means shelter from the storm or from danger. God is our protector.

The Psalmist says because God is our refuge we will not fear. No matter what happens in life we can be assured God is in control. His sovereignty will prevail. Though there may come desolation on the earth, as Christians we can be assured God is our refuge. He will protect us. We need to turn our concerns over to Him.

We can take comfort in verse 10: "Be still, and know that I [am] God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth."

In the book of Esther, the Jewish people could have given up because of the fear of the enemy. They could have stood in their own strength and been destroyed, but they turned to God and He was their refuge. He turned their trouble around and made the outcome be for their benefit and for His glory. For that they will remember God and praise Him forever.

Daily Bible Scripture:

Psalm 46:1-11

1 [[To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth.]] God [is] our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

2 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

3 [Though] the waters thereof roar [and] be troubled, [though] the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.

4 [There is] a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy [place] of the tabernacles of the most High.

5 God [is] in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, [and that] right early.

6 The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted.

7 The LORD of hosts [is] with us; the God of Jacob [is] our refuge. Selah.

8 Come, behold the works of the LORD, what desolations he hath made in the earth.

9 He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.

10 Be still, and know that I [am] God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

11 The LORD of hosts [is] with us; the God of Jacob [is] our refuge. Selah.

Things to think about:

- Is God your refuge?

- Do you look to God for strength?

- Do you take comfort in knowing He is God?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for this Scripture which reminds us as Christians You are our refuge. You are our protector. We can take comfort in knowing You are God and Your sovereignty will reign both in heaven and earth. Help us to exalt and praise You forever. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 24 Praise God--the King of the Earth

Praise God--the King of the Earth

By Deborah H. Bateman

Psalm 47:1-9

You will notice a lot of the Psalms start off saying, "To the chief Musician.” They were meant to be songs of praise and worship. This Psalm starts off saying, "O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph." We need to learn how to praise God, exalt Him and worship Him. How do you praise and worship God?

This Scripture reflects on the time when the Lord comes back to set up His kingdom. It reminds us He is the great king over the whole earth. As believers, we will spend eternity with Him, worshiping and praising Him forever. So, we need to get used to doing it now.

The Bible tells us: "For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive [and] remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words." -1Thessalonians 4:16-18

So many times as Christians, we take God for granted. We don't give Him the honor and place of importance He deserves in our lives. He will come again and rule and reign on this earth, we need to be ready for His appearance.

In the book of Esther the Jewish people started the PURIM Celebration as a way of honoring and praising God for what He did in their lives. No doubt even this celebration which was meant to bring honor to God is sometimes not celebrated in that way. Let's worship and praise God today.

Daily Bible Scripture:

Psalm 47: 1-9

1 [[To the chief Musician, A Psalm for the sons of Korah.]] O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph.

2 For the LORD most high [is] terrible; [he is] a great King over all the earth.

3 He shall subdue the people under us, and the nations under our feet.

4 He shall choose our inheritance for us, the excellency of Jacob whom he loved. Selah.

5 God is gone up with a shout, the LORD with the sound of a trumpet.

6 Sing praises to God, sing praises: sing praises unto our King, sing praises.

7 For God [is] the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with understanding.

8 God reigneth over the heathen: God sitteth upon the throne of his holiness.

9 The princes of the people are gathered together, [even] the people of the God of Abraham: for the shields of the earth [belong] unto God: he is greatly exalted.

Things to think about:

- Have you accepted God as the king of your life?

- Are you listening for the sound of the trump of God?

- Are you ready for His return?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for this Scripture in the book of Psalms. We thank You that You inspired these Scriptures in the Bible to let us know Your plans for us. We praise You for who You are. You are the king of the whole earth. You are holy and deserve our praises. Help us dear God to honor, praise and worship You in a way that glorifies Your name. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 25 Great is the LORD

Great is the LORD

By Deborah H. Bateman

Psalm 48:1-14

This is a Psalm of song for the sons of Korah. The Psalmist talks about how great the LORD is. He is to be greatly praised in the city of God, speaking of Jerusalem, which is; on His holy mountain, Mt. Zion.

Jerusalem is God's chosen city. The city is beautiful. It is the city of the LORD. God is known as a refuge in her palaces. The kings passed by, saw it, were troubled and ran away. Fear takes hold of them as a woman in labor. God breaks the ships of Tarshish with an east wind. Biblical scholars believe this Scripture is speaking of the last days.

Zechariah 12:9, tells us, "And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem".

Psalm 122:6 says, "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee".

God will establish it forever. Mt. Zion will rejoice. The daughters of Judah will be glad because of God's judgment. The Psalmist proclaims, God is our God, He will be our guide as long as we live.

In the book of Esther, the enemy came against God's people, but God turned the tides on them and they were defeated. As long as we have God on our side, we will be victorious. Have you made God the LORD of your life?

Daily Bible Scripture:

Psalm 48:1-14

1[[A Song [and] Psalm for the sons of Korah.]] Great [is] the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, [in] the mountain of his holiness.

2 Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, [is] mount Zion, [on] the sides of the north, the city of the great King.

3 God is known in her palaces for a refuge.

4 For, lo, the kings were assembled, they passed by together.

5 They saw [it, and] so they marvelled; they were troubled, [and] hasted away.

6 Fear took hold upon them there, [and] pain, as of a woman in travail.

7 Thou breakest the ships of Tarshish with an east wind.

8 As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. Selah.

9 We have thought of thy lovingkindness, O God, in the midst of thy temple.

10 According to thy name, O God, so [is] thy praise unto the ends of the earth: thy right hand is full of righteousness.

11 Let mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah be glad, because of thy judgments.

12 Walk about Zion, and go round about her: tell the towers thereof.

13 Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces; that ye may tell [it] to the generation following.

14 For this God [is] our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide [even] unto death.

Things to think about:

- Do you think of God as being great and deserving of our praise?

- Have you chosen to follow God by accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?

- Did you realize there was a promise for those who pray for the peace of Jerusalem?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for this Scripture in Psalm 48. We thank You that we can rejoice because You are our God. We pray for the peace of Jerusalem. We pray Your will would be done on this earth as it is in heaven. Help us to share the gospel with the world. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 26 This Life is Fleeting

This Life is Fleeting

By Deborah H. Bateman

Psalm 49:11-20

In this Scripture the Psalmist reminds us that the houses and lands that we have in this life will be left behind. Even men of honor who name buildings, streets, and other things after themselves, they too will eventually perish and leave all their wealth and fame behind.

Only the soul which is redeemed by God will live eternally. This mortal body that we live in today will perish when we pass from this life. That will be the end of life as we know it and we can't carry any of the things that we have accumulated in this life with us. If you haven't accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior even your soul will perish.

Sometimes we work so hard in this life to obtain wealth and make a name for ourselves and don't concern ourselves with the life that is eternal. This Scripture reminds us that all these earthly things will pass away and only the things that are eternal will last.

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any [man] pluck them out of my hand.” (John 10:27-28)

In The Book of Esther: A Story of Love and Favor Haman set his sights on the accomplishments of this life and he was destroyed. Esther and Mordecai set their sights on saving God's people and they were exalted. What have you set your sights on eternal things or carnal things?

Daily Bible Scripture:

Psalm 49:11-20

11 Their inward thought [is, that] their houses [shall continue] for ever, [and] their dwelling places to all generations; they call [their] lands after their own names.

12 Nevertheless man [being] in honour abideth not: he is like the beasts [that] perish.

13 This their way [is] their folly: yet their posterity approve their sayings. Selah.

14 Like sheep they are laid in the grave; death shall feed on them; and the upright shall have dominion over them in the morning; and their beauty shall consume in the grave from their dwelling.

15 But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me. Selah.

16 Be not thou afraid when one is made rich, when the glory of his house is increased;

17 For when he dieth he shall carry nothing away: his glory shall not descend after him.

18 Though while he lived he blessed his soul: and [men] will praise thee, when thou doest well to thyself.

19 He shall go to the generation of his fathers; they shall never see light.

20 Man [that is] in honour, and understandeth not, is like the beasts [that] perish.

Things to think about:

- Do you put your faith in the things of this world?

- Do you put your energy into things eternal or do you put all your strength in the things of this world?

- How can we change our priorities to make the switch?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for this Scripture that reminds us of the importance of building things in our lives that are eternal. Help us not to use all of our strength on the things of this life, but to put our energy toward the things You want us to do. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 27 Our God Shall Come

Our God Shall Come

By Deborah H. Bateman

Psalm 50:1-15

This is a Psalm of Asaph, who was one of the worship leaders in the temple. God is calling everyone on the earth to gather together before Him so He can judge His people. Are you ready for that call?

He is coming back and when He does He will judge both the living and the dead. He will gather those together who have made a covenant with Him. The heavens will declare His righteousness. God is a righteous judge. He knows everything about us. He knows the thoughts and intentions of our heart.

“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.” (Isaiah 53:6)

God says He will not take any of our sacrifices such as the animals that were sacrificed in the Old Testament. God reminds us that all these animals of the earth belong to Him, anyway. God knows the animals like He knows us. God says even if He was hungry He wouldn't tell us. Everything in this world belongs to God; He created it.

God reminds us to offer thanksgiving to Him. What God wants from us is praise and thanksgiving and for us to pay our vows to Him. God wants us to call on Him in the time of trouble and He will deliver us and we will glorify Him.

In The Book of Esther: A Story of Love and Favor the Jewish people called on God when they were in trouble. Esther and the Jewish people fasted and prayed for three days and God delivered them. Have you ever wanted God's favor in a situation bad enough to fast and pray for three days?

Daily Bible Scripture:

Psalm 50:1-15

1[[A Psalm of Asaph.]] The mighty God, [even] the LORD, hath spoken, and called the earth from the rising of the sun unto the going down thereof.

2 Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined.

3 Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be very tempestuous round about him.

4 He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may judge his people.

5 Gather my saints together unto me; those that have made a covenant with me by sacrifice.

6 And the heavens shall declare his righteousness: for God [is] judge himself. Selah.

7 Hear, O my people, and I will speak; O Israel, and I will testify against thee: I [am] God, [even] thy God.

8 I will not reprove thee for thy sacrifices or thy burnt offerings, [to have been] continually before me.

9 I will take no bullock out of thy house, [nor] he goats out of thy folds.

10 For every beast of the forest [is] mine, [and] the cattle upon a thousand hills.

11 I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field [are] mine.

12 If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world [is] mine, and the fulness thereof.

13 Will I eat the flesh of bulls, or drink the blood of goats?

14 Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High:

15 And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.

Things to think about:

- Are you ready for the call of God?

- Is there anything in your life for which you need to ask God to forgive you?

- Do you enjoy giving God praise and thanksgiving?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for this Scripture in Psalm 50. We thank You that You are a righteous judge. Help us to honor You, praise You, and give thanksgiving to You for who You are. Thank You for loving us and caring about us. Help us to know we can call on You in the day of trouble and You will deliver us. Help us to glorify Your name. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Lesson 28 Glorify Thy Name

Glorify Thy Name

By Deborah H. Bateman

Psalm 50:16-23

In the first part of Psalm 50 we saw the promise that God will return and mostly it was addressed to believers. In this second part of the Psalm it starts off talking to unbelievers.

He says the wicked hate instruction, they steal, they lie, they slander others and many other things. He addresses them by saying they thought He would be silent and leave them to their destructive ways, but He reminds them that He will judge them for their wicked ways and unbelief.

He declares that those who offer praise glorify Him and says those whose conversation is right He will show the salvation of God. Have you received the salvation of God through His Son, Jesus Christ?

In The Book of Esther: A Story of Love and Favor there were both wicked characters and those who believed in God. As you read the story you will discover how God honored His people by showing favor to them and how He punished the wicked for their evil ways. We all have a choice whether we will follow God or choose to reject Him. God does not force His salvation on anyone He gives us the freedom to choose Him. It is not God’s will that any should perish, but He gives us a free will. Have you chosen to follow God?

Daily Bible Scripture:

Psalm 50:16-23

16 But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or [that] thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth?

17 Seeing thou hatest instruction, and castest my words behind thee.

18 When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with adulterers.

19 Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit.

20 Thou sittest [and] speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother's son.

21 These [things] hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether [such an one] as thyself: [but] I will reprove thee, and set [them] in order before thine eyes.

22 Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear [you] in pieces, and [there be] none to deliver.

23 Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth [his] conversation [aright] will I shew the salvation of God.

Things to think about:

- As you read this Scripture where are you?

- Are you described as one of the wicked ones or as one who praises and glorifies God?

- How can we help others to see the light?

Prayer of the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father:

Thank You for this Scripture in Psalm 50. We see that You will judge both the wicked and believers. Help us to honor You with our lives. Forgive us of our sins and help us to praise and glorify You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

PURIM Celebration

Have you ever been to a PURIM Celebration? I attended one at my church when we had a Bible study on the book of Esther. We had a party at the end of the class. The dinner was catered, so we didn’t have to cook, and one of my classmates made Hamantaschen cookies. These are cute little pastries kind of triangular in shape and filled with different things. Some people use fruit or other sweet fillings and I have seen recipes for savory fillings as well.

Some of the things you might do for a PURIM Celebration include wearing masks, or costumes, having a nice dinner, making Hamantaschen cookies, and reading the story of Esther. You could also exchange small gifts, or take up gifts to give to the needy in your community. Maybe you could take up canned goods or paper products and donate them to a shelter or a food bank.

No matter how you celebrate PURIM remember to give God the glory for all He has done. The celebration was started to honor God for His goodness and favor on His people. I have included a recipe that one of our contributors Deborah McCarragher found and I revised to add my comments from some videos I watched and some websites I found while researching how to make these little treasures.

[2]{{Information |Description={{en|1=Purim performance at the Jewish Theatre in Warszawa, Poland. March 2009.}} |Source=Own work by uploader |Author=Kotoviski photograph by Henryk Kotowski |Date=March 2009 |Permission= |other_versions= }}

Hamantaschen Cookies

*Some people call these little delicacies Haman’s ears and some people call them Haman’s hats, whichever you want to call them they are cute and they taste good too.

Ingredients:

2 cups of butter or margarine, softened

2 cups of sugar

2 large eggs

2 tsp. vanilla

4 tsp. baking powder

4 cups flour

Directions:

**You can use all whole wheat flour or half wheat and half all-purpose flour or all plain flour, whichever you prefer

People use different kinds of fillings. I have seen recipes for apricot, raspberry, poppy seed, pecan pie, pumpkin, prune, and more. I will give you some links to a few websites where I saw different filling recipes at the end of this recipe. From what I understand you can also buy some fillings already made to use in the cookies.

Cream the butter and sugar well, one YouTube video I watched about making these cookies said to cream the butter and sugar for about five minutes until it was super creamy. Add eggs and vanilla, blend thoroughly. Add baking powder, then add flour ½ cup at a time blending after each addition. Refrigerate batter overnight or at least for a few hours.

**From what I understand the batter will be kind of crumbly.

Roll the batter out to 1/4 inch thickness and cut out with a circular cookie cutter, biscuit cutter, or glass. You will need them to be 3 inches in diameter in order for you to be able to fill them and shape them properly.

Place the circle in the palm of your hand and put about a tablespoon of filling in the center of the circle. Then, use your thumb and forefinger to pinch two sides together, next bring up the bottom and pinch it to the sides to make the triangular shape, leaving only a little bit of the filling showing in the middle of the cookie. One of the videos I watched said you could brush them with an egg white wash if you wanted to which will make them shiny.

Bake at 375 degrees for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

These are a few websites I found that had some recipes for different fillings for the Hamantaschen cookies and other kosher recipes that you may be able to use for your PURIM Celebration: Joy of Kosher, and The Shiska. I am sure there are other websites and blogs as well that have recipes for these cookies. You can also find some videos about the PURIM Celebration on YouTube.

I hope you have enjoyed this Bible study and enjoyed learning more about PURIM. I hope you will take the principles you have learned through these devotionals and apply them to your life.

[3]Photo of homemade prune hamantaschen. Photo taken by ~~~~ on March 14, 2006.

About the Author

Deborah H. Bateman is a Christian author, publisher, blogger, and website designer. She is the founder of Christian Daily Resources a Christian online ministry, dedicated to “Sharing God’s Word.” She enjoys studying the Bible and sharing it with others. She wrote this book to share with you the importance of celebrating God’s goodness and favor in your life.

Deborah is a happily married mother of two beautiful daughters, and grandmother to five precious grandchildren. She resides in South Carolina with her husband. Her children and grandchildren live nearby and she enjoys getting to see them on a regular basis. She is an active member of her church.

Christian Daily Resources

Christian Daily Resources is a Christian online ministry, dedicated to “Sharing God’s Word.” The website contains Christian music, Christian books, Christian poetry, Christian prayers, and Bible verses. The site also has a Christian Resource Store in order to meet all your Christian resource needs. You can help support our ministry by shopping for your Christian books and music at our Christian book store.

Daily-Bible-Reading

Join Deborah on Daily-Bible-Reading, which is a daily Bible study blog. Together you will enjoy exploring the Word of God.

Bible Verse Tweet

Deborah shares a daily Bible verse on her blog: Bible Verse Tweet. You can subscribe to Bible Verse Tweet to receive the daily Bible verse. Deborah’s goal is to use the Scripture to bring encouragement to others’ lives. She shares Bible verses from her books as well as other verses to encourage and enlighten readers.

How to Connect with the Author

You can follow and connect with Deborah H. Bateman online through the following links:

Website: Deborah H. Bateman-Author

Blog: Deborah H. Bateman Blog

Website: Christian Daily Resources

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PURIM Celebration Contributors

Mary Pacecho

Ms. Mary Pacheco (aka:  SeashoreMary) was born, raised and educated in Corpus Christi, Texas, retired after thirty-two years state service from the State of Texas, Office of the Attorney General in 2002, as an investigator enforcing the laws for child support on behalf of Texas children.

Ms. Pacheco, single, is sixty-two years, currently an avid Christian Author, Poet, digital Artist, and Media Publisher blogging weekly insightful articles relative to Christian events and demystifying Bible Scriptures with a keen interest in the prophetic portion of the Christian Bible.

Utilizing her knowledge in computer science, Ms. Pacheco is also an Internet Marketing Consultant creating websites, and blogs, inclusive of eCommerce sites promoting the Word of the Lord.

seashoremary.wordpress.com/

Penny Zeller

Penny Zeller is the author of several books and numerous magazine articles. She is also the author of the blog "A Day in the Life of a Wife, Mom, and Author" www.pennyzeller.wordpress.com where she also provides weekly doses of inspiration and humor, along with movie reviews from a Christian worldview, and interviews with some of her favorite author friends.

Penny is an active volunteer in her community, devoting her time to assisting and nurturing women and children into a closer relationship with Christ. Her passion is to use the gift of the written word that God has given her to glorify Him and to benefit His kingdom.

Among other books, Penny is the author of McKenzie, Kaydie, and Hailee in her Montana Skies Historical Romance Series and 77 Ways Your Family Can Make a Difference: Ideas and Activities for Serving Others.

When she's not writing, Penny enjoys spending time with her family and camping, hiking, canoeing, and playing volleyball.

Penny loves to hear from her readers at her website, www.pennyzeller.com and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pennyzellerbooks

Katherine Harms

Katherine Harms is the author of Oceans of Love, thirty days of devotionals on the love of God, available for Kindle. Her blog, Living on Tilt, provides focused meditations and helpful information for Christians navigating the contemporary cultural minefield. She writes and lives with her husband aboard the sailboat No Boundaries, while cruising on the blue waters of God’s great oceans.

Dave Moore

Dave Moore is a chaplain serving in the Church of God in Ypsilanti Michigan. His ministry is to those who need hope wherever they may be. He is a first time author of the book The Father’s Love. This book was published by Tate Publishing and is available in bookstores, through the publisher, internet, and Dave’s website at www.thefatherslovebook.com. Dave believes that ALL things are possible with God. That is how he lives and prays. He is married to the love of his life Dorinda, and he has three sons, Shane, Adam and David.

Marlo Schalesky

Marlo Schalesky is the author of eight books, including the Christy-award winning Beyond the Night and RITA finalist Shades of Morning.  She's currently under contract for a nonfiction book (tentatively titled Wrestling with Wonder) that looks at the character of God through the life of Mary, Jesus' mother.  You can find her musings about God and a life with six children, seven horses, six cats, a fish, two hamsters, a rabbit, a rat, and two parakeets on her Tales of Wonder blog (www.marloschalesky.blogspot.com) and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MarloSchalesky.  Her website is www.VividGod.com.

Judith Robl

Judith is a speaker, author, and writing coach. Judith experienced tragedy in her family, coping with the aftermath of that violence taught her much about patience and perseverance, forgiveness and faith.  Without faith, life can be impossible.  With faith, nothing can overcome the believer. Forging a deep root of faith is the basis for all her writing and speaking. Visit her website at: www.judithrobl.com.

Lynn Dove

Lynn Dove calls herself a Christ-follower, a wife, a mom, a grandmother, a teacher and a writer (in that order). She is the author of award winning books: The Wounded Trilogy. Her blog, Journey Thoughts won a Canadian Christian Writing Award - 2011. She has also had essays published in Mother of Pearl: Luminous Lessons and Iridescent Faith and Chicken Soup for the Soul - Parenthood (March 2013). Readers may connect with Lynn on Facebook, Twitter and on her blogs: Journey Thoughts and Word Salt or on her website:www.shootthewounded.org

Buffy Crabtree

Buffy MacDonald Crabtree’s book, Grieving God’s Way – He Feels Your Pain, is available on Amazon in Paperback and Kindle. Find its page on Facebook. Also on the shelves at Family Christian Stores in Columbia. As a Grief Share Coordinator, she helps those who have lost a loved one find encouragement, direction, and understanding. Her book received “Five Stars (out of five).” www.grievinggodsway.org

Deborah McCarragher

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled Mission Possible.  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

Shawn Lamb

Shawn Lamb is an award-winning author of YA fantasy and Christian historical fiction, and a former children's television screenwriter. She is active in various church ministries and created curriculum for women's Bible study based upon Proverbs 31. www.allonbooks.com

Serge Roux-Levrat

Serge is the Principal Ambassador of SRL Ministries, an international and interdenominational Christian Ministry based in Zurich, Switzerland, and the author of several books and eBooks such as Make Your Life Worth Living. He has been married since 1995 to Barbara, and they are the proud parents of two children.  You can follow SRL Ministries on Facebook or visit its website.

Lily Brenner

Lily manages her "ACE" Website@ www.AccountableChristianEncouragement.com and is in the beginning stages of putting her first e-book into print this year. She recently joined the authors group at John 3:16 Marketing Network and is promoting other authors there, as she’s already been doing for authors for the past few years.

Heidi Faith

Heidi has a passion for babies and compassion for parents who have lost their precious little ones. After experiencing a miscarriage herself she founded StillBirthday to help other grieving parents deal with their loss and honor the children that they lost. She trains doulas to deal with these very heart breaking situations. Check out her site at: www.StillBirthday.com

Lisa Buffaloe

Lisa Buffaloe is an avid blogger, writer, speaker, and radio host for Living Joyfully Free. Her past experiences—molestation by a baby-sitter, assault, rape by a doctor, divorce, being stalked, cancer, death of loved ones, seven surgeries, and eleven years of chronic illness from Lyme disease—bless her with a backdrop to share God’s amazing promises. She loves to tell others that God’s love is unending, and through Him we find healing, restoration, and renewal. www.lisabuffaloe.com

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Table of Contents

Lesson 1 What is PURIM?

Lesson 2 Taste and See That the Lord Is Good

Lesson 3 God Has Not Given Us the Spirit of Fear

Lesson 4 I Must Be About My Father's Business

Lesson 5 Four Ways to Draw Closer to Your Spouse

Lesson 6 Forgive, Forgive, Forgive

Lesson 7 Praise

Lesson 8 From Brokenness to Beauty

Lesson 9 Un-forgiveness

Lesson 10 Thou Art Worthy

Lesson 11 Marriage – Love, Honor and…Obey?

Lesson 12 UNFORGIVENESS

Lesson 13 Relationships

Lesson 14 Conflict in Marriage

Lesson 15 How to have Unity in Marriage

Lesson 16 Un-forgiveness in Our Hearts

Lesson 17 God is Not Mad at You

Lesson 18 My Soul Longs for You, O God

Lesson 19 Safe in His Hands

Lesson 20 Hope in God

Lesson 21 God's Favor

Lesson 22 A Song of Love

Lesson 23 God Is Our Refuge

Lesson 24 Praise God--the King of the Earth

Lesson 25 Great is the LORD

Lesson 26 This Life is Fleeting

Lesson 27 Our God Shall Come

Lesson 28 Glorify Thy Name

PURIM Celebration

Hamantaschen Cookies

About the Author

PURIM Celebration Contributors