Bible Verse and Prayer for Today;
In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.
Ephesians 1:7
Prayer
Lord , Thank You for the Redemption Jesus offers via His Blood , For Forgiveness of Sins that the Blood of Jesus offers , And that even The Wine of the Holy Communion has the same Power of the Blood , and that even annointing Oil have the same power of the Blood of Jesus , that gives us the Riches of His Grace , Thank You Jesus for your Blood , the Strongest Power on Earth . we Pray this in the Powerful name of Jesus . Amen and Amen
Prayer Tips
- Paul teaches Timothy about prayer
1Ti 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet
and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of
the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man
Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. 7 Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity. 8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. - Always thank God for what he is about to give.
- Request Gods mercy.
- Pray for the authorities placed over you.
- Pray for understanding and truth.
- Pray in the name of Jesus Christ.
- Gods gift to us “ the Good News”
- Confirm your discipleship and your ministry in the Kingdom of God, to teach, baptize, show faith (Manifesting your faith in actions) and speak the truth.
- Pray without Holy anger.
Bybel Vers en Gebed vir Vandag
In wie ons die verlossing het deur sy bloed, die vergewing van sondes na die rykdom van sy genade.
Efesiërs 1:7
Gebed
Here , Dankie vir die Verlossing wat Jesus bied deur Sy Bloed , Vir Vergifnis van sondes wat die Bloed van Jesus bied , En dat selfs Die Wyn van die Heilige Nagmaal dieselfde Krag van die Bloed het , en dat selfs salwingsolie dieselfde krag het van die Bloed van Jesus , wat ons die Rykdom van Sy Genade op Aarde gee , Dankie Jesus vir U Sterkste Bloedkrag . ons bid dit in die kragtige naam van Jesus. Amen en Amen
Gebed Wenke
Paulus leer Timoteus oor gebed
1Ti 2:1 Ek vermaan dan dat in die eerste plek smekinge, gebede, voorbedes en danksegging gedoen moet word vir alle mense; 2 Vir konings en vir almal wat gesag het; dat ons ‘n stilte kan lei
en ‘n vredevolle lewe in alle godsaligheid en eerlikheid. 3 Want dit is goed en welgevallig in die oë van God, ons Verlosser; 4 Wie wil hê dat alle mense gered word en tot kennis van kom
die waarheid. 5 Want daar is een God en een Middelaar tussen God en die mense, die mens
Christus Jesus; 6 wat Homself gegee het as ‘n losprys vir almal, om op die regte tyd getuig te word. 7 Waartoe ek aangestel is as ‘n prediker en ‘n apostel (ek spreek die waarheid in Christus en lieg nie;) ‘n leraar van die heidene in geloof en waarheid. 8 Ek wil dan dat die mense oral moet bid en heilige hande ophef, sonder toorn en twyfel.
Dank God altyd vir wat hy gaan gee.
Versoek God se genade.
Bid vir die owerhede wat oor jou geplaas is.
Bid vir begrip en waarheid.
Bid in die naam van Jesus Christus.
God se geskenk aan ons “die Goeie Nuus”
Bevestig jou dissipelskap en jou bediening in die Koninkryk van God, om te onderrig, te doop, geloof te toon (Manifesteer jou geloof in dade) en die waarheid te praat.
Bid sonder Heilige woede.
Bible Teaching of the Day
You Need 3 Yes’es to be Raptured ,
YOU NEED 3 YES’ES TO GO TO HEAVEN
AND 3 YES’ES TO ENTER HEAVEN .
DO YOU HAVE THESE 3 YES’ES ?????
1Jn 5:6 This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.
1Jn 5:7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
1Jn 5:8 And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.
1Jn 5:9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son.
YES NR 1 HAVE YOU BEEN WASHED BY THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB? ARE YOUR ROBE PURE AND WHITE ?
YES NR 2 HAVE YOU FOLLOWED JESUS THROUGH THE WATER OF BAPTISM ?
YES NR 3 HAVE YOU BEEN BAPTIZED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT .
RECEIVED AND USED YOUR FRUITS AND GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT TO THE ADVANTAGE OF THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN ?
Bybel Lering vir die Dag
Jy het 3 ja’s nodig om weggeraap te word,
JY BENODIG 3 JA’S OM NA HEMEL TE GAAN
EN 3 JA’S OM DIE HEMEL IN TE GAAN .
HET JY HIERDIE 3 JA’S ?????
1Jn 5:6 Dit is Hy wat deur water en bloed gekom het, Jesus Christus; nie net deur water nie, maar deur water en bloed. En dit is die Gees wat getuig, want die Gees is waarheid.
1Jn 5:7 Want daar is drie wat getuig in die hemel: die Vader, die Woord en die Heilige Gees; en hierdie drie is een.
1Jn 5:8 En daar is drie wat op aarde getuig: die Gees en die water en die bloed; en hierdie drie is eenstemmig.
1Jn 5:9 As ons die getuienis van die mense aanneem, is die getuienis van God groter, want dit is die getuienis van God wat Hy van sy Seun getuig het.
JA NR 1 IS JY GEWAS DEUR DIE BLOED VAN DIE LAM? IS JOU ROBE PUIN EN WIT?
JA NR 2 HET JY JESUS GEVOLG DEUR DIE WATER VAN DIE DOOP ?
JA NR 3 IS JY MET DIE HEILIGE GEES GEDOOP .
ONTVANG EN GEBRUIK JOU VRUGTE EN GESKENKE VAN DIE GEES TOT VOORDEEL VAN DIE KONINKRYK VAN DIE HEMEL ?
Today’s Devotional
But I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
It is said that Colbert Croft and his wife, Joyce, went through a particularly difficult time. During 1974, they faced their worst storms and darkest days. They had nowhere to go, nowhere to turn. They felt they could go no further. They were broken, forsaken and alone: without a friend in the world.
Colbert was so broken that he could no longer even pray. One evening while they were praying, Colbert could only cry out, “Lord, help me.” Joyce was sitting at the piano. About one o’clock in the morning, when he felt he could go no further, the Lord gave Colbert a song. He sat down and wrote:
I thought that number one would always be me
I thought I could be what I wanted to be
I thought that I could build on life’s sinking sand
But I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
I thought that I could do a lot on my own
I thought I could make it all alone
I thought of myself as a mighty big man
But I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
Lord I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
The mountains too high and the valleys too wide
Down on my knees I’ve learned to say
Lord I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
For almost a year (and even more so in the past few weeks) I have been going through one of the most difficult times in my life. I have also experienced a few storms. And although I know many loving people with truly caring hearts, I have felt that I had nowhere to go, nowhere to turn. I also felt that I could not go on any longer. But at this time the Lord gave me this song written by Colbert Croft and I prayed:
Lord I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
The mountains too high and the valleys too wide
Down on my knees I’ve learned to say
Lord I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
It is now just after 2:30 in the morning, and as I write, I am acutely aware that many of you are going through storms, many of you feel alone and many of you have nowhere to go. For you I suggest praying:
Lord I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
The mountains too high and the valleys too wide
Down on my knees I’ve learned to say
Lord I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
The Lord speaks to Isaiah and says: For the mountains may depart and the hills may be shaken, but my lovingkindness will not depart from you, neither will my covenant of peace be shaken, says the LORD your God. (Isaiah 54:10) When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you; when you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, neither shall the flame kindle upon you. (Isaiah 43:2)
For I, the LORD your God, will grasp your right hand, it is I who say to you, Fear not, I will help you. (Isaiah 41:13) Do not be afraid, for I am with you; Do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my saving right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)
And when we recognize that we cannot even walk without Him holding our hand, He will also give us what He promised Isaiah. We will make it through the storm, we will survive, we will overcome. Not because of who we are or what we can do, but because He works in us and through us. We will conquer through Jesus Christ who gives us strength. (Romans 8:37)
Vandag se Bemoediging
But I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
Daar word vertel dat Colbert Croft en sy vrou, Joyce, deur ‘n besonder moeilike tyd gegaan het. Gedurend 1974 het hul, hul ergste storms en donkerste dae, in die gesig gestaar. Hulle het nêrens gehad om te gaan, nêrens om heen te draai. Hul het gevoel dat hul nie verder kan gaan. Hul was verslae, verlate en alleen: sonder ‘n vriend in die wêreld.
Colbert was so gebroke dat hy nie eens meer kon bid. Een aandterwyl hul moes bid, kon Colbert net roep: “Here, help my.” Joyce het voor die klavier gesit. Omtrent een uur die in die mȏre, toe hy voel dat hy nie meer kon aangaan nie, het die Here aan Colbert ‘n lied gegee. Hy het gaan sit en geskryf:
I thought that number one would always be me
I thought I could be what I wanted to be
I thought that I could build on life’s sinking sand
But I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
I thought that I could do a lot on my own
I thought I could make it all alone
I thought of myself as a mighty big man
But I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
Lord I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
The mountains too high and the valleys too wide
Down on my knees I’ve learn to say
Lord I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
Vir bykans ‘n jaar (en selfs meer so in die afgelope weke) gaan ek deur een van die moeilikste tye in my lewe. Ek het ook ‘n paar storms ondervind. En alhoewel ek baie liefdevolle mense met regte omgee-harte ken, het ek gevoel dat ek nêrens gehad het om te gaan, nêrens om heen te draai nie. Ek het ook gevoel dat ek nie meer kan voortgaan nie. Maar in hierdie tyd het die Here vir my hierdie lied gegee wat Colbert Croft geskryf het en ek het gebid:
Lord I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
The mountains too high and the valleys too wide
Down on my knees I’ve learn to say
Lord I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
Dit is nou net na 2H30 in die mȏre, en terwyl ek skryf, is ek intens bewus daarvan dat baie van julle deur storms gaan, baie van julle alleen voel en baie van julle nêrens het om te gaan nie. Vir jou stel ek voor om te bid:
Lord I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
The mountains too high and the valleys too wide
Down on my knees I’ve learn to say
Lord I can’t even walk without You holding my hand
Die Here spreek tot Jesaja en sê: Want berge mag wyk en heuwels wankel, maar my goedertierenheid sal van jou nie wyk en my vredeverbond nie wankel nie, sê die HERE, jou Ontfermer. (Jesaja 54:10) As jy deur die water gaan, is Ek by jou; en deur die riviere—hulle sal jou nie oorstroom nie; as jy deur vuur gaan, sal jy jou nie skroei nie, en die vlam sal jou nie brand nie. (Jesaja 43:2)
Want Ek, die HERE jou God, gryp jou regterhand aan, Ek wat vir jou sê: Wees nie bevrees nie, Ek help jou. (Jesaja 41:13) Wees nie bevrees nie, want Ek is met jou; kyk nie angstig rond nie, want Ek is jou God. Ek versterk jou, ook help Ek jou, ook ondersteun Ek jou met my reddende regterhand. (Jesaja 41:10)
En wanneer ons erken dat ons nie eens kan loop sonder dat Hy ons hand hou nie, sal Hy ook aan ons gee wat Hy aan Jesaja belowe het. Ons sal dit deur die storm maak, ons sal oorleef, ons sal oorkom. Nie weens wie ons is of wat ons kan doen nie, maar omdat Hy in ons en deur ons werk. Ons sal oorwin deur Jesus Christus wat ons krag gee. (Romeine 8:37)
TruLight Ministries Daily Entertainment
TruLight TV – Life-giving music
The influence of imagination is incredible, which is why we have to be careful what we think. Worry and anxiousness can put a damper on our mindset. Today’s video shows how we can use the power of our imagination for good. and later Bill & Gloria Gaither and their Homecoming Friends gathered in Tulsa, OK, for a weekend of sweet fellowship, inspiring messages and life-giving music. Sing along to some of your favorite Gospel classics such as “What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” “The Baptism of Jesse Taylor,” “Because He Lives” and “Give It Away.” You will enjoy performances by Homecoming favorites Mark Lowry, Jeff & Sheri Easter, The Isaacs, Marshall Hall, the Gaither Vocal Band and more with these special reunion performances. Enjoy today’s show and thanks for watching.
INTRODUCTION TO THE GOSPEL ARTIST
MEET : CHARLOTTE RITCHIE
The velvety voice of Charlotte Ritchie has become a favorite among gospel music audiences across North America. She was first introduced to Homecoming listeners more than a decade ago during her years as a vocalist for Jeff and Sheri Easter, and she now appears on the Homecoming stage as a beloved solo artist. Prior to her years with the Easters, Charlotte gained national attention as the soprano singer for legendary gospel group, The Nelons.
Since embarking on her solo career in the spring of 2008, Charlotte has enjoyed tremendous success with two solo recordings, “Closer” and “Bridges Over Blue” which have spawned national success, including hit releases on southern gospel and inspirational radio. Her solo concert schedule takes her to festivals, churches and women’s conferences nationwide, where audiences are getting to know the incredible heart that accompanies her one-of-kind voice.
Charlotte and her husband, Greg (drummer extraordinaire for the Homecoming concert tour), make their home in Hendersonville, Tennessee, (near Nashville) with their two children, Landon and Jayna.
Today on TruLight Radio XM
TruLight Radio XM 24/7
Program
GMT / UTC +2
00:15 Words to Live By Testimonies
01.15 Science Scripture and Salvation
02.15 Ground Works
04.00 Gospel Concert of the Day
05.00 The Daren Streblow Comedy Show
5:55 It is Today devotional
6:00 Gaither Homecoming Morning Show
7:15 Discover the Word
8.15 Destined for Victory
8:55 Science Scripture and Salvation
9:00 Holy Spirit Hour – Normally Sermons
10:15 Hope of the Heart
11:15 Unshackled
11.45 Words to Live By
12:15 Truth for Life
13:15 Living on the Edge with Chip Ingram
14:15 Focus on the Family
15:00 Kids Hour
16:00 In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley
16:30 Groundwork
17:15 Live in the Light
18:15 Renewing your Mind
19:00 Gaither Homecoming Show
20:15 Growing Hope
21:15 Adventures in Odyssey Radio Drama
21:45 Bible Reading
22:15 Night-sounds
23.00 Good Old Country Gospel / Rhema Gospel Express
https://TruLightRadioXM.org.za
Bible Prophecy in the News
Revisiting The Prophecy Of The Popes: What Should We Really Be Watching For?
With the news of Pope Francis’ passing at the age of 88, many believers are once again turning their eyes to an old and mysterious prediction known as the Prophecy of the 112 Popes. For centuries, this prophecy has stirred the imaginations of scholars, skeptics, and saints alike. But as students of Bible prophecy, how should we view it in light of Scripture? What weight should we give it in a time when spiritual deception and end-time confusion abound?
The Prophecy of the 112 Popes
The so-called “Prophecy of the Popes” is attributed to St. Malachy, a 12th-century Irish archbishop. According to legend, Malachy received a vision during a pilgrimage to Rome in 1139, where he saw a procession of 112 future popes. Each pope was described with a short, cryptic Latin motto. The list allegedly begins with Pope Celestine II (elected in 1143) and ends with a final pope, dubbed “Peter the Roman,” whose reign will supposedly culminate in the destruction of Rome and the final judgment.
This document first surfaced in 1595 in a book by Benedictine monk Arnold Wion. That fact alone is suspect: why did no one mention or publish this vision for over 400 years? Historians and Catholic scholars alike have pointed out that the early mottos seem eerily accurate, while the later ones devolve into vague and generalized descriptions that can be retrofitted to nearly any pontiff.
Wion’s timing is also suspicious–his book was released during a season of contentious papal elections, leading many to speculate that the list was a political forgery designed to sway opinion. Indeed, respected scholars have cast serious doubt on the prophecy’s authenticity.
Despite these criticisms, some find the prophecy’s apparent accuracy compelling. For example, Pope John Paul II’s motto was “De labore solis” (of the solar eclipse), and he was born during a solar eclipse and buried during another. Pope Benedict XVI’s motto, “Gloria olivae” (the glory of the olive), sparked discussion due to his connection with the Benedictine order, sometimes symbolized by the olive branch.
As for Pope Francis, some proponents of the prophecy believe he could be “Peter the Roman” because of his birth name, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, whose father was an Italian immigrant–effectively making Francis “Roman” by heritage. Others point out that he chose the name Francis in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, who was born Giovanni di Pietro (John, son of Peter). This connection has led some to conclude that the prophecy may have already been fulfilled in Francis. On the other hand, others argue that he is only the 111th pope, meaning there is still one more to come who will fulfill the “Peter the Roman” title.
Adding an interesting twist to the conversation: among the current contenders for the next papacy, there are three cardinals whose names include a form of “Peter.” Whether coincidence or confirmation, this has only fueled speculation and renewed interest in the prophecy.
Why Should Christians Be Concerned?
Bible prophecy is not meant to be a sideshow or curiosity. It is God’s revelation to His people about His plan for the end of the age. When attention shifts too heavily to extra-biblical prophecies, believers risk missing the forest for the trees. Jesus warned in Matthew 24:24 that false prophets would arise, showing great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.
This leads to a far more important and biblically grounded prophecy: the rise of the False Prophet.
The Role of the False Prophet in Scripture
In Revelation 13, two beasts are introduced: one from the sea (representing a political leader–the Antichrist), and one from the earth (a religious figure, often identified as the False Prophet). Revelation 13:11-17 describes this second beast as one who “had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon.” He appears religious and gentle but speaks with the authority of Satan.
The False Prophet’s role is to support the Antichrist by performing deceptive miracles, setting up an image of the beast, and enforcing the infamous mark of the beast. This religious leader will lead the world into worshiping the Antichrist and ultimately into rebellion against God (Revelation 16:13, 19:20, 20:10).
Today, concerning trends of spiritual compromise, interfaith movements, and a push toward global religious unity can be seen–developments that seem to be preparing the world for a religious figure who will unite people under a false gospel.
The office of Pope is certainly a leading contender for someone to assume such power The global influence of the papacy, combined with the increasing call for religious inclusivity, places such a figure in a unique position to fulfill the role described in Revelation. As with all speculation, it must be approached with humility as scripture simply doesn’t reveal how this religious man will rise to power.
Many religious figures throughout history have appeared suddenly and gathered a following quickly. Anything is possible with today’s technology and the nature of viral communications. Influencers online can acquire millions of followers in mere hours. Add a religious twist with miracles to people looking for answers in a lost society and you can see why the world bows down.
What Should We Watch For?
Rather than fixating on an ambiguous list from centuries ago, believers should be watching clear biblical markers:
The growing apostasy in the church (2 Thessalonians 2:3)
The rise of globalism
The call for a unified world religion
And the moral and spiritual decline described in Romans 1 and 2 Timothy 3.
These trends point toward the Gog and Magog Final Bomb.
What Next?
The Prophecy in Line is the Final Bomb of Gog and Magog and the Destruction of Damascus.
The death of a pope naturally causes the world to pause and reflect. For some, it reignites interest in prophecies like St. Malachy’s. But students of the Word are called to test every spirit and hold fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21). The Prophecy of the 112 Popes is fascinating, but it lacks biblical backing and reliable provenance.
Instead, attention must be fixed on the Word of God, which alone holds the authority and clarity needed in uncertain times. While there may be coincidences that seem compelling, doctrine and hope must not be built on fragile ground. Vigilance, discernment, and faithfulness to the truth that God has clearly revealed in Scripture are essential.
As the world navigates these last days, may believers be found watching, praying, and living in the light of God’s unshakable truth.
Signs of the Times
Painful Shortages Of Certain Items Are Coming
A lot of Amazon shoppers have been shocked to learn that some of their favorite products have already disappeared. In fact, there are entire stores on Amazon that are now completely gone.
Holy War Erupts After Judge Bans Mom From Taking Daughter To Christian Church
The case involves a radical ruling from Jennifer Nofsinger, a judge who heard a custody case, who ordered that the mother was not allowed to take her 11-year-old daughter to an evangelical Christian church.
Gog and Magog Update
All News Highlights the Past 24 Hours
- Iranian FM Planned ‘Trillion Dollar Opportunity’ to Lure US Investors Into Iran’s Nuclear Program
- After ‘Very Good’ Conversation, Trump Says He and Netanyahu are ‘On Same Side of Every Issue’
- New Deal Could Free All Israeli Hostages in Exchange for 5-7 Year Ceasefire
- China-Egypt Military Cooperation Could Spell Trouble for Israel
TruLight Ministry News
TruLight Ministries orders from God since 2012 .
Teach Them , Comfort Them and Warn Them!
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Leer hulle, Troos hulle en Waarsku hulle!
PASTOR DIRK ARE GOING TO SOON START WITH HIS MORNING TEACHINGS ON WHATSAPP . TELEGRAM AND FACEBOOK . IT WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE ON THIS APP.
PASTOOR DIRK GAAN BINNEKORT BEGIN MET SY OGGEND LERINGE OP WHATSAPP . TELEGRAM EN FACEBOOK . DIT SAL OOK OP HIERDIE APP BESKIKBAAR WEES.
TruLight School of Theology have started with Its daily Bible Study – Pastor Counselling Certificate – we are Starting with 36 Studies with 10 Studies per Topic from 1st of April 2025 – Over the Next 2 Years we will Include One Daily Study per Topic on this Platform. The Daily Manna Bible Study will be Available in English and Afrikaans!
We will Start with a 68 week Study on “Know Your Bible” Daily Bible Summaries of every Chapter in the Bible! From the Old Testament to the New Testament , from Genesis to Revelation 66 Books of the Bible.
Started 1st April 2025
This is our Study Principals:
SOAP
Scripture: Read a short passage out loud.
Observation: What do you notice about the verses?.
Application: How can you apply this to your life?.
Prayer: Pray about what you’ve learned.
REAP
Read: Read the passage carefully.
Engage: Ask questions about the passage.
Apply: Think about how the passage applies to your life.
Pray: Pray about what you’ve learned.
Introduction to the Bible – Bible Summary
Summary of the Book of Esther
Author: The Book of Esther does not specifically name its author. The most popular
traditions are Mordecai (a major character in the Book of Esther), Ezra, and Nehemiah
(who would have been familiar with Persian customs). Full article: Who wrote the book
of Esther? Who was the author of Esther?
Date of Writing: The Book of Esther was likely written between 460 and 350 B.C.
Purpose of Writing: The purpose of the Book of Esther is to display the providence of
God, especially in regard to His chosen people, Israel. The Book of Esther records the
institution of the Feast of Purim and the obligation of its perpetual observation. The
Book of Esther was read at the Feast of Purim to commemorate the great deliverance of
the Jewish nation brought about by God through Esther. Jews today still read Esther
during Purim.
Key Verses:
Esther 2:15 – Now when the time came for Esther to go to the king, she asked for
nothing other than what Hegai, the king’s eunuch who was in charge of the harem,
suggested.
Esther 4:14 – For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise from
another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you
have come to the royal position for such a time as this.
Esther 6:13 – Since Mordecai, before whom your downfall has begun, is of Jewish origin,
you cannot stand against him – you will surely come to ruin!
Esther 7:3 – If I have found favor with you, O king, and if it pleases your majesty, grant
me my life – this is my petition, and the life of my people – this is my request.
Brief Summary: The Book of Esther can be divided into three main sections. Chapters
1:1-2:18 – Esther replaces Vashti; 2:19-7:10 – Mordecai overcomes Haman; 8:1-10:3 –
Israel survives Haman’s attempt to destroy them. The noble Esther risked her own death
as she realized what was at stake. She willingly did what could have been a deadly
maneuver and took on the second-in-command of her husband‘s kingdom, Haman. She
proved a wise and most worthy opponent, all the while remaining humble and
respectful of the position of her husband-king.
Esther’s story is much like the story of Joseph in Genesis 41. Both stories involve foreign
monarchs who control the destiny of the Jews. Both accounts show the heroism of
Israelite individuals who provide the means for the salvation of their people and nation.
The hand of God is evident, in that what appears to be a bad situation is indeed very
much under the control of the Almighty God, who ultimately has the good of the people
at heart. At the center of this story is the ongoing division between the Jews and the
Amalekites, which was recorded to have begun in the Book of Exodus. Haman’s goal is
the final effort recorded in the Old Testament period of the complete eradication of the
Jews. His plans eventually end up with his own demise, and the elevation of his enemy
Mordecai to his own position, as well as the salvation of the Jews.
Feasting is a major theme of this book: there are seven recorded banquets (Esther
1:3, 9; 2:18; 5:4–5; 7:1–2; 8:17; and 9:17–22), and many of the events were planned,
plotted, or exposed at these banquets. Although the name of God is never mentioned in
this book, it is apparent that the Jews of Susa sought His intervention when they fasted
for three days (Esther 4:16). In spite of the fact that the law allowing their destruction
was written according to the laws of the Medes and Persians, rendering it unchangeable,
the way was cleared for their prayers to be answered. Esther risked her life by going not
once uninvited before the king but twice, (Esther 5:1–2; 8:3). She was not content with
the destruction of Haman; she was intent on saving her people. The institution of the
Feast of Purim is written and preserved for all to see and is still observed today. God’s
chosen people, without any direct mention of His name, were granted a stay of
execution through the wisdom and humility of Esther.
Foreshadowings: In Esther, we are given a behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing
struggle of Satan against the purposes of God and especially against His promised
Messiah. The entrance of Christ into the human race was predicated upon the existence
of the Jewish race. Just as Haman plotted against the Jews in order to destroy them, so
has Satan set himself against Christ and God’s people. Just as Haman is defeated on the
gallows he built for Mordecai, so does Christ use the very weapon that his enemy
devised to destroy Him and His spiritual seed. For the cross, by which Satan planned to
destroy the Messiah, was the very means through which Christ “having canceled the
written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he
took it away, nailing it to the cross. And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he
made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross” (Colossians 2:14-
15). Just as Haman was hanged on the gallows he built for Mordecai, so the devil was
crushed by the cross he erected to destroy Christ.
Practical Application: The Book of Esther shows the choice we make between seeing
the hand of God in our circumstances in life and seeing things as merely coincidence.
God is the sovereign Ruler of the universe and we can be assured that His plans will not
be moved by the actions of mere evil men. Although His name is not mentioned in the
book, His providential care for His people, both individuals and the nation, is evident
throughout. For instance, we cannot fail to see the Almighty exerting influence over King
Xerxes’ timely insomnia. Through the example of Mordecai and Esther, the silent love
language our Father often uses to communicate directly to our spirits is shown in this
book.
Esther proved to have a godly and teachable spirit that also showed great strength and
willing obedience. Esther’s humility was markedly different from the attitude of those
around her, and this caused her to be elevated into the position of queen. She shows us
that remaining respectful and humble, even in difficult if not humanly impossible
circumstances, often sets us up to be the vessel of untold blessing for both ourselves
and others. We would do well to emulate her godly attitudes in all areas of life, but
especially in trials. Not once is there a complaint or bad attitude exposed in the writing.
Many times we read she won the “favor” of those around her. Such favor is what
ultimately saved her people. We can be granted such favor as we accept even unfair
persecution and follow Esther’s example of maintaining a positive attitude, coupled with
humility and the determination to lean on God. Who knows but that God put us in such
a position, for just such a time as this?
Inleiding tot die Bybel – Bybel Samevatting
Opsomming van die boek Ester
Skrywer: Die boek Ester noem nie sy skrywer spesifiek nie. Die gewildste tradisies is
Mordegai (‘n hoofkarakter in die Boek van Ester), Esra en Nehemia (wat met Persiese
gebruike bekend sou gewees het). Volledige artikel: Wie het die boek Ester geskryf? Wie
was die skrywer van Ester?
Datum van Skrywe: Die Boek Ester is waarskynlik tussen 460 en 350 vC geskryf.
Doel van Skrywe: Die doel van die Boek Ester is om die voorsienigheid van God te
vertoon, veral met betrekking tot Sy uitverkore volk, Israel. Die Boek van Ester teken die
instelling van die Purimfees en die verpligting van die ewige waarneming daarvan aan.
Die boek Ester is by die Purimfees gelees om die groot verlossing van die Joodse nasie
te herdenk wat deur God deur Ester teweeggebring is. Jode lees vandag steeds Ester
tydens Purim.
Sleutelverse:
Ester 2:15 – Toe die tyd aanbreek dat Ester na die koning toe gaan, het sy niks anders
gevra as wat Hegai, die koning se eunug wat in beheer van die harem was, voorgestel
het nie.
Ester 4:14 – Want as jy in hierdie tyd stilbly, sal daar verligting en bevryding uit ‘n ander
plek kom, maar jy en jou vader se familie sal omkom. En wie weet maar dat jy vir so ‘n
tyd soos hierdie in die koninklike posisie gekom het.
Ester 6:13 – Aangesien Mordegai, voor wie jou ondergang begin het, van Joodse
oorsprong is, kan jy nie teen hom standhou nie – jy sal sekerlik ten gronde gaan!
Ester 7:3 – As ek guns by u gevind het, o koning, en as dit u majesteit behaag, gee my
my lewe – dit is my bede en die lewe van my volk – dit is my versoek.
Kort opsomming: Die boek Ester kan in drie hoofafdelings verdeel word. Hoofstukke
1:1-2:18 – Ester vervang Vasti; 2:19-7:10 – Mordegai oorwin Haman; 8:1-10:3 – Israel
oorleef Haman se poging om hulle te vernietig. Die edele Esther het haar eie dood
gewaag toe sy besef wat op die spel was. Sy het gewillig gedoen wat ‘n dodelike
maneuver kon wees en die tweede-in-bevel van haar man se koninkryk, Haman,
aangeneem. Sy was ‘n wyse en mees waardige teenstander, terwyl sy heeltyd nederig
gebly het en die posisie van haar man-koning respekteer.
Ester se verhaal is baie soos die verhaal van Josef in Genesis 41 . Beide verhale behels
buitelandse monarge wat die lot van die Jode beheer. Beide verslae toon die
heldhaftigheid van Israelitiese individue wat die middele vir die redding van hul volk en
nasie voorsien. Die hand van God is duidelik deurdat dit wat na ‘n slegte situasie blyk te
wees, inderdaad baie onder die beheer van die Almagtige God is, wat uiteindelik die
goeie van die mense op die hart dra. Die middelpunt van hierdie verhaal is die
voortdurende verdeeldheid tussen die Jode en die Amalekiete, wat opgeteken is dat dit
in die Boek Exodus begin het. Haman se doelwit is die laaste poging wat opgeteken is in
die Ou Testamentiese tydperk van die algehele uitwissing van die Jode. Sy planne eindig
uiteindelik met sy eie ondergang, en die verheffing van sy vyand Mordegai tot sy eie
posisie, asook die redding van die Jode.
Fees is ‘n hooftema van hierdie boek: daar is sewe opgetekende bankette ( Ester 1:3 , 9 ;
2:18 ; 5:4–5 ; 7:1–2 ; 8:17 ; en 9:17–22 ), en baie van die gebeure is by hierdie bankette
beplan, beplan of ontbloot. Alhoewel die naam van God nooit in hierdie boek genoem
word nie , is dit duidelik dat die Jode van Susan Sy ingryping gesoek het toe hulle drie
dae lank gevas het ( Ester 4:16 ). Ten spyte van die feit dat die wet wat hulle vernietiging
toelaat, geskryf is volgens die wette van die Meders en Perse, wat dit onveranderlik
maak, is die weg oopgemaak vir hul gebede om verhoor te word. Ester het haar lewe
gewaag deur nie een keer ongenooid voor die koning te gaan nie, maar twee keer (
Ester 5:1–2 ; 8:3 ). Sy was nie tevrede met die vernietiging van Haman nie; sy was daarop
ingestel om haar mense te red. Die instelling van die Purimfees is geskryf en bewaar vir
almal om te sien en word vandag nog onderhou. God se uitverkore volk, sonder enige
direkte vermelding van Sy naam, is ‘n uitstel van teregstelling toegestaan deur die
wysheid en nederigheid van Ester.
Voorafskaduwings: In Ester word ons ‘n kykie agter die skerms gegee na die
voortdurende stryd van Satan teen die bedoelings van God en veral teen Sy beloofde
Messias. Die ingang van Christus in die menslike geslag was gebaseer op die bestaan
van die Joodse ras. Net soos Haman teen die Jode saamgespan het om hulle te
vernietig, so het Satan homself teen Christus en God se volk opgestel. Net soos Haman
verslaan word op die galg wat hy vir Mordegai gebou het, so gebruik Christus die einste
wapen wat sy vyand uitgedink het om Hom en Sy geestelike saad te vernietig. Want die
kruis, waardeur Satan beplan het om die Messias te vernietig, was die einste middel
waardeur Christus “die geskrewe kode met sy bepalings gekanselleer het wat teen ons
was en wat teen ons gestaan het; hy het dit weggeneem, dit aan die kruis vasgespyker.
En nadat Hy die magte en owerhede ontwapen het, het Hy hulle ‘n publieke skouspel
gemaak deur hulle aan die kruis te triomfeer” ( Kolossense 2:14-15 ). Net soos Haman opgehang is aan die galg wat hy vir Mordegai gebou het, so is die duiwel verbrysel deur
die kruis wat hy opgerig het om Christus te vernietig.
Praktiese Toepassing: Die Boek Ester wys die keuse wat ons maak tussen om die hand
van God in ons lewensomstandighede te sien en dinge as bloot toeval te sien. God is die
soewereine Heerser van die heelal en ons kan verseker wees dat Sy planne nie deur die
optrede van blote bose mense beweeg sal word nie. Alhoewel Sy naam nie in die boek
genoem word nie, is Sy voorsienigheid vir Sy mense, beide individue en die nasie,
deurgaans duidelik. Ons kan byvoorbeeld nie nalaat om te sien dat die Almagtige
invloed uitoefen op koning Xerxes se tydige slapeloosheid nie. Deur die voorbeeld van
Mordegai en Ester word die stille liefdestaal wat ons Vader dikwels gebruik om direk
met ons geeste te kommunikeer, in hierdie boek gewys.
Ester het bewys dat dit ’n godvrugtige en leerbare gees het wat ook groot krag en
gewillige gehoorsaamheid getoon het. Ester se nederigheid was merkbaar anders as die
houding van diegene rondom haar, en dit het veroorsaak dat sy in die posisie van
koningin verhef is. Sy wys vir ons dat om respekvol en nederig te bly, selfs in moeilike,
indien nie menslik onmoontlike omstandighede, ons dikwels daartoe lei om die houer
van ongekende seën vir beide onsself en ander te wees. Ons sal goed doen om haar
godvrugtige gesindhede op alle terreine van die lewe na te volg, maar veral in
beproewings. Nie een keer word daar ‘n klagte of slegte houding in die skrywe ontbloot
nie. Ons lees baie keer dat sy die “guns” van diegene rondom haar gewen het. Sulke
guns is wat uiteindelik haar mense gered het. Ons kan sulke guns gegun word as ons
selfs onregverdige vervolging aanvaar en Ester se voorbeeld volg om ‘n positiewe
gesindheid te handhaaf, tesame met nederigheid en die vasberadenheid om op God te
steun. Wie weet anders as dat God ons in so ‘n posisie geplaas het, vir net so ‘n tyd soos
hierdie?
We are Currently reading and Listening to the Bible, a Chapter by Day !
The total number of chapters in the Bible is 1,189. There are 929 chapters within 39 books of the Old Testament and 260 chapters within the 27 books of the New Testament.
Genesis 12 English – Follow the Reading in Your Bible.
Genesis 12 Afrikaans – Volg die Leser in u Bybel.
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