Your Latter End Will Be Better

Your Latter End Will Be Better

Job 8:7-10 NKJV

[7] Though your beginning was small, Yet your latter end would increase abundantly. [8] “For inquire, please, of the former age, And consider the things discovered by their fathers; [9] For we were born yesterday, and know nothing, Because our days on earth are a shadow. [10] Will they not teach you and tell you, And utter words from their heart?

    

Bildad is responding to Job’s lament over his suffering. In this speech (Job 8), Bildad argues that God is just and that Job’s suffering must have come because of some wrongdoing. His point in verse 7 is: “Job, if you return to God and live righteously, He will restore you. Even though your beginning was small, your end will prosper.” So in Bildad’s mind, this was conditional prosperity — “if you repent, God will restore.” Though Bildad’s theology was incomplete (because Job’s suffering wasn’t caused by sin), the principle he states about humble beginnings leading to greater ends under God’s hand is biblically true.

    Bildad is  painting a picture of divine enlargement — God taking something that appears tiny and multiplying it beyond imagination. This verse captures one of God’s consistent patterns in Scripture: that God delights in small beginnings. Abraham started as one man — God made him a great nation. David was the youngest shepherd — God made him a king. Jesus was born in a manger — yet became the Saviour of the world. The Church began with 120 praying believers —today,  it has become a global body.

     God’s way often starts with the seed before the harvest, the mustard seed before the tree, the cross before the crown. You may be at your beginning, don't worry. Your latter end will greatly increase. You have to hold on and follow God's patterns. In the end, Job greatly increased. You will too. The devil is not bigger than God. Good morning.

When Comfort Turns To Condemnation

When Comfort Turns to Condemnation

Job 6:14-16, 21-22 NKJV
[14] “To him who is afflicted, kindness should be shown by his friend, Even though he forsakes the fear of the Almighty. [15] My brothers have dealt deceitfully like a brook, Like the streams of the brooks that pass away, [16] Which are dark because of the ice, And into which the snow vanishes....[21] For now you are nothing, You see terror and are afraid. [22] Did I ever say, ‘Bring something to me’? Or, ‘Offer a bribe for me from your wealth’?

     Job could not take it any longer. He challenges Eliphaz and his other friends. His accusations expose the danger of careless counsel: words meant to heal can actually wound deeper. Eliphaz’s counsel was empty and harsh (Job 6:25–26). Job describes his words as “windy” and unhelpful. Instead of comfort, Eliphaz offered arguments that increased Job’s pain.  Harsh truth without love is cruelty. Counsel must carry grace. When someone is broken, they don’t need a lecture—they need empathy. " Job here made his most basic accusation against Eliphaz: “You should show me kindness, even if it were true that I had forsaken the fear of the Almighty.”
    Guzik summarizes Smick: “Verse 21 is the climax of Job’s reaction to his friends’ counsel. They offered no help. The verse is like a sermon about the special strength needed to be willing to make oneself available when we see others in a truly dreadful condition. The risk involved makes us afraid.” Guzik sums it up: "Job wasn’t asking his friends to pay him money or to ransom him from kidnappers. All he wanted was some words of comfort, and he heard none". Has anyone been in a moment like this?
    Eliphaz failed the test of friendship (Job 6:14–15). Job says: “A despairing man should have the devotion of his friends.” Eliphaz was like a dried-up brook—absent when needed most. True friendship is proven in crisis. We should be a fountain of encouragement, not a drain of hope. Eliphaz represents well-meaning but misguided counsel. He had empty words instead of comfort. He misjudged instead of being understanding. He showed betrayal instead of loyalty. He ran on presumption instead of truth. How's your friendship? Good morning.

A Covenant with the stones

A Covenant With The Stones 

Job 5:23-27 NKJV

[23] For you shall have a covenant with the stones of the field, And the beasts of the field shall be at peace with you. [24] You shall know that your tent is in peace; You shall visit your dwelling and find nothing amiss. [25] You shall also know that your descendants shall be many, And your offspring like the grass of the earth. [26] You shall come to the grave at a full age, As a sheaf of grain ripens in its season. [27] Behold, this we have searched out; It is true. Hear it, and know for yourself.”

    Eliphaz is coming to the conclusion of his first speech. He began by saying that the person God favours will have a covenant with the stones of the field. He is describing the blessings of a person whom God favours and disciplines rightly. To “have a covenant with the stones” is a metaphor that points to:

    1. Having harmony with creation. Stones, which could symbolize rough, hard, and resistant obstacles, will no longer oppose but cooperate with you. Agricultural safety: In the ancient world, farmers feared stones in their fields because they ruined plowing and harvest. A covenant with stones means the land itself will yield without resistance. Security in life’s environment: Even nature’s harshest realities (stones, beasts) become allies instead of enemies.

    2. Symbolically, it describes peace with the inanimate creation. Stones represent permanence and hardness. Having covenant with them means your steps are secure, your foundation is firm, and creation itself bears witness to God’s favour on you. It also means overcoming obstacles. The imagery suggests God makes what normally frustrates or hinders into something that works for your good.In total, a covenant with stones and beasts paints a picture of complete peace—no hostility from the seen or unseen realms, no disturbance from environment or creation.

   3. Theologically, it means God reconciles us with creation through His covenant: Just as Adam lost harmony with creation in the Fall, in Christ God restores peace with all creation (Romans 8:19–21, Colossians 1:20). The covenant extends beyond human relationships. It touches even the physical order of the world—your “field” (work, land, calling) aligns with divine blessing.The believer’s security is not left untouched. Nothing in nature—stones of stumbling, wild beasts, storms—can undo the covenantal favour of God.

    These connections will then  bring forth peace in all spheres: whether in your dwellings, your endeavours or your relationships. Eliphaz has coined a full thesis of life, except he has misplaced it's application. God was involved in Job's case. I think He is involved in yours as well. Good morning.

The Man Whom God Corrects

The Man Whom God Corrects

Job 5:17-22 NKJV

[17] “Behold, happy is the man whom God corrects; Therefore do not despise the chastening of the Almighty. [18] For He bruises, but He binds up; He wounds, but His hands make whole. [19] He shall deliver you in six troubles, Yes, in seven no evil shall touch you. [20] In famine He shall redeem you from death, And in war from the power of the sword. [21] You shall be hidden from the scourge of the tongue, And you shall not be afraid of destruction when it comes. [22] You shall laugh at destruction and famine, And you shall not be afraid of the beasts of the earth.

    Eliphaz now suggests another possible explanation for Job's predicament. Now he thinks that what's happening to Job is actually God's correction in the way Job had lived. 

When most people hear the word correction, they think of punishment, failure, or rejection. But God’s correction is none of these. It is His hand of love guiding us back into the path of life. So Eliphaz missed the point again.

     Hebrews 12:6 reminds us that God’s discipline is proof of our sonship: He corrects us because He loves us, not because He has abandoned us. His Word warns us like road signs on a highway. Circumstances may redirect us like Jonah in the belly of the fish. Sometimes, He uses people—like Nathan confronting David—to point out what we cannot see. And often, His Spirit quietly nudges our conscience, like a smoke detector that goes off before fire spreads.

      Though correction can sting, its purpose is beautiful: to protect us from harm, to form holiness in us, and to prepare us for greater service. Like a goldsmith refining gold in fire, God uses correction to burn off what is impure and bring out the beauty He already sees in us. The right response is humility and repentance, not resentment. Correction is not a sign of God’s anger but His affection. If we receive it with gratitude and obedience, it will yield the “peaceable fruit of righteousness” (Heb. 12:11). 

    Eliphaz is correct in  his view of God's help and restoration. He only missed Job's circumstances. Eventually, Job laughed at destruction. You will laugh as well, in Jesus Name. Good morning.

The Consolation of jobs three friends

The Consolation Of Job's Three Friends 

Job 2:11-13 NKJV

[11] Now when Job’s three friends heard of all this adversity that had come upon him, each one came from his own place—Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite. For they had made an appointment together to come and mourn with him, and to comfort him. [12] And when they raised their eyes from afar, and did not recognize him, they lifted their voices and wept; and each one tore his robe and sprinkled dust on his head toward heaven. [13] So they sat down with him on the ground seven days and seven nights, and no one spoke a word to him, for they saw that his grief was very great.

      For seven days and seven nights, they sat on the ground with Job and did not speak a single word. This was an act of profound, silent solidarity. They recognized that Job's grief was so great that words would have been inadequate and perhaps even an intrusion. Their presence alone was the consolation, a powerful demonstration of their empathy and a willingness to simply sit with their friend in his pain.

    According to Poole, " Seven days and seven nights was the usual time of mourning for the dead, Gen 50:10; 1Sa 31:13, and therefore proper both for Job’s children, who were dead, and for Job himself, who was in a manner dead whilst he lived.”  After this, the begins a discussion in the next thirty five chapters trying to place the reason for these infirmities.

   Morgan says that " Job suffered more at the hands of these friends ultimately than by the attacks of the foe, yet some recognition must be made of the goodness of the men.” 

    Bradley finally submits that, " We leave Job and his friends seated in silence. There is calm around them, but we feel that the air is heavy, and that there is a tempest in the sky. We shall hear the storm burst and the thunder roll when next we meet.” How do you respond to others in their crises? How do you evaluate what happens to others? Sometimes being silent may speak loads of sympathy than hurrying to talk. Someone says that " Silence is the genius of fools and one of the virtues of the wise." How do you react to others in trouble? Good morning.

Curse God And Die

Curse God And Die 

Job 2:7-10 NKJV

[7] So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord, and struck Job with painful boils from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head. [8] And he took for himself a potsherd with which to scrape himself while he sat in the midst of the ashes. [9] Then his wife said to him, “Do you still hold fast to your integrity? Curse God and die!” [10] But he said to her, “You speak as one of the foolish women speaks. Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?” In all this Job did not sin with his lips.

     The title is spoken by Job's wife after he had lost everything and the enemy turned it's attack on Job's health. He is afflicted with painful sores, and sits in ashes, a sign of deep mourning. Some scholars are sympathetic to Jobs wife after they lost everything. According to them,She was watching her husband, whom she loved, suffer in excruciating pains. So from a human perspective, she may have felt that death was the only escape from such unbearable suffering. Maybe this was her way of expressing her grief and frustration with God. 

      Within the larger narrative, her words are a direct temptation to Job. The devil had told God that Job would curse Him if the blessings were taken away. Knowingly or unknowingly, Job's wife's words were to prove satan's claims. In v10, Job told her that she speaks as a foolish woman. That's the central theme of the book of Job. It is the human tendency to question God's goodness and justice when suffering occurs. She's not presented as a villain but as someone whose faith has faltered in the face of very tough pains.

     How do you respond to situations that may appear as if God is silent? How do you react when others think God is punishing you for your secret crimes. How do you feel when others submit that you're a victim of your parental sins. Do you just accept them? Is there a way out in the New Testament? You have to follow up this vignettes. You'll be happy you did. Good morning.

Skin For Skin

Skin for skin!

Job 2:3-6 NKJV

[3] Then the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered My servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, one who fears God and shuns evil? And still he holds fast to his integrity, although you incited Me against him, to destroy him without cause.” [4] So Satan answered the Lord and said, “Skin for skin! Yes, all that a man has he will give for his life. [5] But stretch out Your hand now, and touch his bone and his flesh, and he will surely curse You to Your face!” [6] And the Lord said to Satan, “Behold, he is in your hand, but spare his life.”

    The phrase "skin for skin" is a proverb Satan uses to accuse Job of being in a selfish, transactional faith. It's an ancient saying with a meaning similar to "a person will give anything to save their own life."According to Lawson, the phrase in Job’s ancient culture,..." was a bartering term meaning to trade one skin for another." The devil is here accusing Job of being willing to risk the skin of his children and livestock in order to protect his own skin.” 

    It's important to take a closer look at this accusation. What is a transactional faith? Transactional faith is a mindset that views one's relationship with God as a quid pro quo or a business-like exchange. In this view, people believe that if they perform certain actions—like praying, attending church, or giving money—God is obligated to provide them with specific blessings or outcomes in return. This can lead to a belief that good deeds or adherence to religious rules will guarantee prosperity, health, or protection, while a lack of blessings is a sign that one has not done enough or has committed a sin.

    This type of faith often treats God like a vending machine: you put in your good deeds and prayers, and a blessing is dispensed. When the expected blessing doesn't come, it can lead to feelings of disappointment, guilt, or the belief that something is wrong with one's own faith or actions. 

The primary motivation is to receive a benefit, whether it's salvation, financial gain, or personal comfort. This is in contrast to a relational or transformational faith, which focuses on knowing and loving God for who He is, not just for what He can provide.

    To move toward a more relational faith involves shifting the focus from "what can I get?" to "who is God?" and "who am I in relationship with God?" It emphasizes that God's love is unconditional and not based on our performance. This shift involves:

​Prioritizing relationship over rules: Focusing on building a personal, loving relationship with God rather than simply following a list of rules or obligations.

     We have to learn to trust that God's plan is not always a direct response to our specific requests. His love remains constant even when prayers aren't answered in the ways we expect.We have to recognize that faith is a gift and not something that can be earned or bought.Touching Job's health was not to change things, neither should it be for you. Good morning.

The Enemy's Premtive Strike

The Enemy's Pre-emptive Strike

Job 1:13-17 NKJV

[13] Now there was a day when his sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s house; [14] and a messenger came to Job and said, “The oxen were plowing and the donkeys feeding beside them, [15] when the Sabeans raided them and took them away—indeed they have killed the servants with the edge of the sword; and I alone have escaped to tell you!” [16] While he was still speaking, another also came and said, “The fire of God fell from heaven and burned up the sheep and the servants, and consumed them; and I alone have escaped to tell you!” [17] While he was still speaking, another also came and said, “The Chaldeans formed three bands, raided the camels and took them away, yes, and killed the servants with the edge of the sword; and I alone have escaped to tell you!”

     A pre-emptive strike is a first-strike attack. In the military, it may be done as an act of self defence, but in spiritual warfare it is used by the devil as an act of dominion. This strike is  launched with the intention of crippling your ability to retaliate. The term is most commonly used in the context of nuclear strategy, where a first strike would aim to destroy the opponent's nuclear arsenal (e.g., missile silos, submarine bases, bomber airfields) and command and control centers, thus preventing a devastating counterattack. This is what America did to Iran recently . So all the people who would have gathered around Job in prayers and intercession were wiped out by that pre-emptive strike. The strike continued till v.20 when Job declared that he came out of the mother's womb empty, and will return same.

     The very goal of any response is not just to retaliate, but to re-establish deterrence and prevent further escalation. In spiritual warfare, some prayers are preventive, others are fostering. You have to know the difference and when to apply which. There are prayers you can pray alone, and there are prayers you must extend it's influence by co-opting others. In Job's case, many did not even understand what he was experiencing. At a time, the wife told him to curse God and die. You must have prayer partners. It's time to repel the bombardment of the enemy. Start today. Good morning.

Gods Permission On Things Only

Gods Permission On Things Only 

Job 1:12 NKJV

[12] And the Lord said to Satan, “Behold, all that he has is in your power; only do not lay a hand on his person.” So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord.

    To understand this verse, we must understand the relationship between God, the Father and the devil. The relationship between God and the devil is one where God maintains ultimate authority. It's not a relationship of equals. God's sovereignty is absolute, and the devil cannot act without divine allowance. The reasons for the permission are often explained as part of a larger divine plan, which may include testing human faith, demonstrating God's power, or fulfilling a higher purpose that is not always immediately clear to humans.

    When God granted permission for Satan to test Job, God was so good to keep the enemy within bounds. Read that verse again. " Behold, all that he has is in your power..". In the execution, the enemy went for Job's health. The enemy doesn't understand what it means to play fair. The enemy worked on the wife for Job to curse God and die. The enemy killed Job's children and turned friends against him, but it had boundaries. I may not understand your testimony, but the enemy has boundaries. God is so loving that He has not allowed the enemy to consume you. I can tell you on good records, you're coming out of it. The permission was on things. Your life is too precious in the sight of God. Here is a Bible verse that reminds everyone how precious you are to God, so much that God will do it again:

 Isaiah 43:4,"Because you are precious and honored in My sight, and because I love you, I will give men in exchange for you and nations in place of your life". Hallelujah! In Jesus Name. Good morning.

The Celebration Of Purim

The Celebration Of Purim

Esther 9:18-22 NKJV

[18] But the Jews who were at Shushan assembled together on the thirteenth day, as well as on the fourteenth; and on the fifteenth of the month they rested, and made it a day of feasting and gladness. [19] Therefore the Jews of the villages who dwelt in the unwalled towns celebrated the fourteenth day of the month of Adar with gladness and feasting, as a holiday, and for sending presents to one another. [20] And Mordecai wrote these things and sent letters to all the Jews, near and far, who were in all the provinces of King Ahasuerus, [21] to establish among them that they should celebrate yearly the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar, [22] as the days on which the Jews had rest from their enemies, as the month which was turned from sorrow to joy for them, and from mourning to a holiday; that they should make them days of feasting and joy, of sending presents to one another and gifts to the poor. 

    Purim is a joyous Jewish holiday that commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them in ancient Persia. The story unfolds in the Persian Empire under King Ahasuerus. His chief minister, Haman, was a wicked man who sought to destroy all the Jews in the kingdom. Haman cast lots (purim in Hebrew) to determine the date of the massacre, which fell on the 13th of the Hebrew month of Adar. Purim is a festive and lively holiday, often compared to a carnival. The celebration is centered around four main activities:

    1 Reading the book of Esther 

    2 Sending food to families and friends 

    3 Giving charity to the poor 

    4 Wearing masks and costumes 

   Purim demonstrates the incredible human capacity for resilience and finding light in the darkest of times. It's a journey that many people have taken, transforming their deepest sorrow into a source of strength, purpose, and even profound happiness.

 This transformation may not mean you forget the process. Instead, it's about how that pain is re-contextualized. The tragedy becomes the very soil from which something beautiful can grow. May we have cause to celebrate any and every tragedy that the devil had intended to swallow us with. Purim mean the casting of lots. The devil has lost the game. We celebrate Purim today. Good morning.

The Thirteenth Of Adar: The Day Of Reversal

The Thirteenth Of Adar: The Day of Reversal

Esther 9:1-4 NKJV

[1] Now in the twelfth month, that is, the month of Adar, on the thirteenth day, the time came for the king’s command and his decree to be executed. On the day that the enemies of the Jews had hoped to overpower them, the opposite occurred, in that the Jews themselves overpowered those who hated them. [2] The Jews gathered together in their cities throughout all the provinces of King Ahasuerus to lay hands on those who sought their harm. And no one could withstand them, because fear of them fell upon all people. [3] And all the officials of the provinces, the satraps, the governors, and all those doing the king’s work, helped the Jews, because the fear of Mordecai fell upon them. [4] For Mordecai was great in the king’s palace, and his fame spread throughout all the provinces; for this man Mordecai became increasingly prominent. 

      The 13th of Adar was the date chosen by the wicked Haman for the annihilation of the Jewish people throughout the Persian Empire. He had cast lots ("purim") to determine the most "auspicious" day for this plan, and it fell on the 13th of Adar. However, due to the courageous actions of Esther and Mordechai, the king issued a new decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves. As a result, the day that was meant for their destruction became a day of victory. The Jews were able to defeat those who sought to harm them, turning a day of darkness into a day of triumph. We call it the day of reversal.

    Reversal is a change to an opposite state, condition, decision. In a storyline, a reversal is a powerful narrative technique where the plot or a character's situation changes to its complete opposite. It's a dramatic turning point that upends the audience's expectations and shifts the story in a new and often surprising direction. This story has shifted unto the celebration for the Jews.

     The 13th is associated with misfortune in the occult.This fear is so common that it has its own name: "triskaidekaphobia". Many hotels and buildings in Western countries skip the 13th floor, and some airlines don't have a 13th row. A major source of this superstition is the story of the Last Supper, where 13 people were present: Jesus and his 12 apostles. The 13th to arrive at the table was Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed Jesus. This event has led to the superstition that having 13 people at a dinner table is a bad omen. Additionally, some biblical interpretations associate the number 13 with rebellion and apostasy, a departure from divine order. The 13th chapter of the Book of Revelation, for instance, speaks of the Antichrist and the "beast." Whatever the 13th represents, the authority of the name of Jesus can change things as it happened here. This was even in the old testament. It is better now with a new covenant.  From now on, we change all thirteenth to a day of reversal in your favour. No one can stop that. Good morning.

The Jews Had Joy, Gladness, A Feast And A Holiday

The Jews Had Joy, Gladness, A Feast And A Holiday 

Esther 8:15-17 NKJV

[15] So Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal apparel of blue and white, with a great crown of gold and a garment of fine linen and purple; and the city of Shushan rejoiced and was glad. [16] The Jews had light and gladness, joy and honor. [17] And in every province and city, wherever the king’s command and decree came, the Jews had joy and gladness, a feast and a holiday. Then many of the people of the land became Jews, because fear of the Jews fell upon them.

      Mordecai played an indispensable and multifaceted role in the deliverance of the Jews in Shushan. He acted as a guardian, a moral compass, a strategist, and an agent of divine providence. His actions, both public and private, set in motion the chain of events that saved his people from annihilation. A similar person may be found in the pages of our contemporary history. One of the fitting contemporary equivalents is Raoul Wallenberg.

Wallenberg is a strong parallel to Mordecai As an "Insider" with access to power: Like Mordecai, who was in a position to communicate with the queen, Wallenberg was a Swedish diplomat stationed in Budapest during World War II. This official position gave him access to powerful people and the authority to issue official documents. Wallenberg was not Jewish, but he was driven by a deep moral conviction to save the Jews of Hungary from the Holocaust. He saw the suffering and refused to stand by idly.

    Wallenberg's genius was in creating a new legal framework for survival. He issued thousands of "protective passports" (Schutz-Pässe) that falsely identified Jews as Swedish citizens awaiting repatriation. This was a brilliant, creative strategy to circumvent Nazi authority and provide a tangible, life-saving document. He also established "safe houses" that were technically Swedish territory, sheltering Jews from deportation. As a risk-taker: Wallenberg was not just a bureaucrat; he was a fearless and hands-on rescuer. He would personally intervene in deportations, pulling people off trains and confronting armed guards. He was putting his life at risk daily, much like Mordecai when he publicly mourned and called on Esther to act.

    A more well-known figure, Schindler was a German industrialist who, through his factory, provided "essential" work for over a thousand Jews, saving them from the concentration camps. While he was not an advocate from the inside in the same way, he used his position of power and wealth to devise a practical, life-saving strategy

    Irena Sendler, a Polish social worker, who worked with the Polish underground,  smuggled over 2,500 Jewish children out of the Warsaw Ghetto. She was an "insider" to the ghetto, but more of a covert operative than a public official. She acted as a guardian and a tireless advocate for the most vulnerable, much like Mordecai's care for Esther. There are people around us in our communities whose heart beat like Mordecai or Esther. Whenever there's someone like this, there will be joy, Gladness and a feast.

     We can make an attempt to find out ways Mordecai was an equivalent of Christ to us in contemporary times. Titus 2:13. He is the saviour whose mission was to "save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). Today appropriate that opportunity and let joy and gladness flow in our hearts. Good morning.

Write a Decree As You Please

Write A Decree As You Please

Esther 8:8, 10-14 NKJV

[8] You yourselves write a decree concerning the Jews, as you please, in the king’s name, and seal it with the king’s signet ring; for whatever is written in the king’s name and sealed with the king’s signet ring no one can revoke.”....[10] And he wrote in the name of King Ahasuerus, sealed it with the king’s signet ring, and sent letters by couriers on horseback, riding on royal horses bred from swift steeds. [11] By these letters the king permitted the Jews who were in every city to gather together and protect their lives—to destroy, kill, and annihilate all the forces of any people or province that would assault them, both little children and women, and to plunder their possessions, [12] on one day in all the provinces of King Ahasuerus, on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month of Adar. [13] A copy of the document was to be issued as a decree in every province and published for all people, so that the Jews would be ready on that day to avenge themselves on their enemies. [14] The couriers who rode on royal horses went out, hastened and pressed on by the king’s command. And the decree was issued in Shushan the citadel.

      

    We are coming to the resolutions. Today's word is a command from the King. The King told Esther: Enough of crying; Write a new Decree as you please. Now pause. That's a blank cheque. When given a blank check, it implies you have been granted carte blanche, meaning complete freedom to act or spend as you see fit. In the context of a physical check, it's a check with a signature but without a specified amount. This can mean you have the authority to spend any amount or make any decision you deem necessary. That's what happened to Esther and Mordecai.

   Here are a few verses demonstrating God's blank cheque : immense generosity and willingness to provide and protect for His people. 

   John 14:13-14 (NIV): "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it."

​Psalm 37:4 (NIV): "Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart."

​Ephesians 3:20 (NIV): "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us..." ​These  are the promises of God for abundant provision and willingness to answer our prayers. When we pray, we write our own decrees. Today, write as it pleases you. Good morning.

Will He Also Assault The Queen

Will He Also Assault The Queen?

Esther 7:8-10 NKJV

[8] When the king returned from the palace garden to the place of the banquet of wine, Haman had fallen across the couch where Esther was. Then the king said, “Will he also assault the queen while I am in the house?” As the word left the king’s mouth, they covered Haman’s face. [9] Now Harbonah, one of the eunuchs, said to the king, “Look! The gallows, fifty cubits high, which Haman made for Mordecai, who spoke good on the king’s behalf, is standing at the house of Haman.” Then the king said, “Hang him on it!” [10] So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then the king’s wrath subsided.

     What has just happened deserves a deep spiritual, psychological and neurological explanations. King Ahasuerus didn't just change his mind concerning Haman. Haman's demonic influence over the  King had  just lifted. The prayers and fasting worked. When a satanic influence lifts, the person's mind is then opened to consider other options. The Kings State of confusion is demonstrated in his walk out into the garden. One of the most powerful drivers of a change of mind is cognitive dissonance. This is the mental discomfort experienced when a person holds two or more conflicting beliefs, ideas, or values, or when their actions don't align with their beliefs. So the walk out was to sort out his mind and what he should really believe about Haman. It must have been a real painful decision for the King.

From a neurological perspective, the decision-making and change of the King's mind may be explained as a process of "evidence accumulation." Our brains continuously gather information for or against a particular option. A choice is made when the accumulated evidence for one option reaches a certain threshold. This Haman thing had gone beyond the threshold.

    When the King returned, Haman had fallen across the couch. He was begging for his life, but the King saw a different picture. His eyes of understanding had a different perspective. His utterance brought the eunuchs. Harbonah told the King about the gallows, and that sealed the deal. "Whosoever diggeth a pit shall fall in it",  Proverbs 26:27 and Ecclesiastes 10:8. God knows how to handle your case. Call unto Him. Good morning.

The Parallel narrative

The Parallel Narrative 

Esther 6:4-10 NKJV

[4] So the king said, “Who is in the court?” Now Haman had just entered the outer court of the king’s palace to suggest that the king hang Mordecai on the gallows that he had prepared for him. [5] The king’s servants said to him, “Haman is there, standing in the court.” And the king said, “Let him come in.” [6] So Haman came in, and the king asked him, “What shall be done for the man whom the king delights to honor?” Now Haman thought in his heart, “Whom would. the king delight to honor more than me?” [7] And Haman answered the king, “For the man whom the king delights to honor, [8] let a royal robe be brought which the king has worn, and a horse on which the king has ridden, which has a royal crest placed on its head. [9] Then let this robe and horse be delivered to the hand of one of the king’s most noble princes, that he may array the man whom the king delights to honor. Then parade him on horseback through the city square, and proclaim before him: ‘Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king delights to honor!’ ” [10] Then the king said to Haman, “Hurry, take the robe and the horse, as you have suggested, and do so for Mordecai the Jew who sits within the king’s gate! Leave nothing undone of all that you have spoken.”

     You are a witness to the development of two stories. It's called  a parallel narrative in story telling. If there were two reporters on this they would, probably, have different headlines for the day's Newspaper. Perhaps one would focus on the near death experience awaiting Mordecai, the Jew, and the other would have been on the honour about to happen to Mordecai, the Jew on saving the king. The two stories are the realities of the two contrasting spiritual universe...one from God, the other from the devil. 

     Everyone operates in the dictates of one of those universes. The narrative may be parallel, but the authority of God's universe is more pervasive and powerful. So God flipped the coin on Haman. Read v 6 again. That's the flaw  of the enemy: " Now Haman thought in his heart.." His dirty heart thought wrong. His universe collapsed. Salvation came to Mordecai. God has not forgotten you. There's a parallel narrative about to spring on your case. God's in charge of the story. I know how this will end. God is about to change your story.

     The enemy thought it had Jesus, but there was another story developing from the throne. God has your back. Believe me. It's not a hoax. When the plots are disentangled, you're on the winning side. Don't give in. Hold on more. The Parallel narrative is in your favour. Good morning.

The Decree Written

The Decree Written 

Esther 4:5-9 NKJV

[5] Then Esther called Hathach, one of the king’s eunuchs whom he had appointed to attend her, and she gave him a command concerning Mordecai, to learn what and why this was. [6] So Hathach went out to Mordecai in the city square that was in front of the king’s gate. [7] And Mordecai told him all that had happened to him, and the sum of money that Haman had promised to pay into the king’s treasuries to destroy the Jews. [8] He also gave him a copy of the written decree for their destruction, which was given at Shushan, that he might show it to Esther and explain it to her, and that he might command her to go in to the king to make supplication to him and plead before him for her people. [9] So Hathach returned and told Esther the words of Mordecai.

     Essentially, a decree is not just a verbal pronouncement, but a formal, documented act that is backed by the power and authority of the issuer and their established legal framework.  While a decree can be designed to be as permanent and unchangeable as possible, it is not always possible to guarantee that it will never be overturned. Even decrees that are considered unchangeable by human standards will be subject to God's ultimate authority and sovereignty. This one by Haman was subject to God's dealings. Your situation is subject to God.

      The decree may have gone forth, but you are  left with an intercession. Mordecai needed someone who would make intercession to the king. The irony is that our intercessor is a person in the King's blossom. Jesus Christ is God's beloved, so was Esther. Dont hive up, there's a eay when theres no way. Weve been there. God has shown up so thoroughly that everyone will know this was God. The decree might have been written against you and your community, that's alright. Things are about to change. Lets have at least one night of intercession and hear what God has to say. Your situation is going to change. Good morning.

A Great Mourning Among The Jews

A Great Mourning Among The Jews

Esther 4:1-4 NKJV

[1] When Mordecai learned all that had happened, he tore his clothes and put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the midst of the city. He cried out with a loud and bitter cry. [2] He went as far as the front of the king’s gate, for no one might enter the king’s gate clothed with sackcloth. [3] And in every province where the king’s command and decree arrived, there was great mourning among the Jews, with fasting, weeping, and wailing; and many lay in sackcloth and ashes. [4] So Esther’s maids and eunuchs came and told her, and the queen was deeply distressed. Then she sent garments to clothe Mordecai and take his sackcloth away from him, but he would not accept them. 

    When the Jews mourn, whether over the death of someone close or expressing grief, the ritual include tearing of clothes, pouring dust on oneself and or the tying of a black ribbon. It is called a Kriah. Jacob tore his clothes when he mourned the supposed death of Joseph. King David did the same when he mourned for Saul and Johnathan. When Mordecai did this, it was a declaration that there was already an extermination of Jews. He understood what Haman had done.

     The depth of the pain is that it began from his simple standing for his integrity. Guzik says, " He cried out with a loud and bitter cry, but he would not change his mind or grovel at the feet of Haman to save himself or his people". 

    The story was told Esther. That's where the story had a genesis for reversal. The enemy came late. We have someone in the King's court.  When you have someone in the court, the case will run to your favour. Haman's demonic invocations had a boundary. There was someone in the Kings court. Every satanic attack has its boundaries. There's a name seated on the right hand of the King for your favour. He wont let the devil go all the way. You're coming out of this. 

    You may be mourning right now, but be rest assured the situation has begun a reversal. It a beautiful thing when God announces a reversal. I have seen God do these things. Its called a breakthrough. Get ready and join me tomorrow fir a good meal. Good morning.

The First Holocaust

The First Holocaust?

Esther 3:12-15 NKJV

[12] Then the king’s scribes were called on the thirteenth day of the first month, and a decree was written according to all that Haman commanded—to the king’s satraps, to the governors who were over each province, to the officials of all people, to every province according to its script, and to every people in their language. In the name of King Ahasuerus it was written, and sealed with the king’s signet ring. [13] And the letters were sent by couriers into all the king’s provinces, to destroy, to kill, and to annihilate all the Jews, both young and old, little children and women, in one day, on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month of Adar, and to plunder their possessions. [14] A copy of the document was to be issued as law in every province, being published for all people, that they should be ready for that day. [15] The couriers went out, hastened by the king’s command; and the decree was proclaimed in Shushan the citadel. So the king and Haman sat down to drink, but the city of Shushan was perplexed.

     Hitler was not the first person to desire an extermination of the Jews. The Haman quest appear to be the first. Here's an excerpt from Eisenhower's National Archive explaing the Holocaust. " The Holocaust was a deliberate and systematic extermination of European Jews during World War II. As the Allied Powers fought Nazi Germany's domination of Europe, Adolf Hitler's henchmen were carrying out a mass annihilation of the Jews in Europe at their numerous concentration camps. The total number of Jews murdered during this genocide has been estimated to be nearly 6 million". Haman and Hitler were motivated by the same demon.

    Tim Black seeks to understand the origins of anti semitism or hatred  towards the Jews. He documents Roman genocide of the Jews as well in Review , Issue 48, March 2024. He submits that, " In order to understand how Hitler was to use the Jews as scapegoats, we must first understand the latent hatred that Hitler was able to tap into against the Jewish people, not just in Germany but all over Europe". What happened in Bible times continued to contemporary history. Current news about the Iran-Israeli war appear to have the same roots of Jewish extermination.

    It is very significant that the decree was written in several languages, to all the provinces, in the King's mame. So the real King was Haman. Meanwhile King Ahasuerus sat down to eat. May any demonic extermination meant to take you out of God's blessings catch fire today in Jesus Name. May all Hamans seeking to run the world by demonic manipulation end like Hitler and Haman, hung on the gallows. By the way, why does all their names begin with "H"? We hope its not "hell". Good morning.

The Influence To Slaughter

The Influence To Slaughter 

Esther 3:7-11 NKJV

[7] In the first month, which is the month of Nisan, in the twelfth year of King Ahasuerus, they cast Pur (that is, the lot), before Haman to determine the day and the month, until it fell on the twelfth month, which is the month of Adar. [8] Then Haman said to King Ahasuerus, “There is a certain people scattered and dispersed among the people in all the provinces of your kingdom; their laws are different from all other people’s, and they do not keep the king’s laws. Therefore it is not fitting for the king to let them remain. [9] If it pleases the king, let a decree be written that they be destroyed, and I will pay ten thousand talents of silver into the hands of those who do the work, to bring it into the king’s treasuries.” [10] So the king took his signet ring from his hand and gave it to Haman, the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, the enemy of the Jews. [11] And the king said to Haman, “The money and the people are given to you, to do with them as seems good to you.”

     It is very instructive to know what Haman did before attempting to slaughter the people of Israel. He cast lot to determine what day would favour the destruction of the people of Israel. Who do you consult before major decisions? Even unbelivers know that they should consult their demons. He had to know the day before even speaking to the King about the matter.

    Notice that the King didn't argue anything with him. V.10. He simply gave him the ring to authenticate any decision he takes. Those were not the Kings decisions. There are people who draw satanic powers to rule leaders around us. That's why the Bible says in1 Timothy 2:1-2, that "..petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." If we don't pray for our leaders, other entities will exercise dominon over them. Later when prayers were offered, it appeared as if scales fell over the King. He had to send out a counter edict. We have to pray for our leaders. 

    Notice that while Christians were arguing about tithes, Haman was willing to pay out ten thousand talents, to support  the mission. Albert Barnes says this was an equivalent of two and and half million British pound sterling as at that time. That's why it was easy for the King to remove his ring without talking or asking any question. Read the Kings reply in v.11 and just cry. The money was returned to Haman to do whatever he likes with it. This was satanic manipulation of the highest order.

    May we learn to exercise God's influence im our endeavours. May we know that there are powers with clandestine motives to destroy the people of God. May we learn to pray for our leaders. Good morning.

Mordecai Reported A Palace Coup

Mordecai Reported A Palace Coup

Esther 2:21-23 NKJV

[21] In those days, while Mordecai sat within the king’s gate, two of the king’s eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh, doorkeepers, became furious and sought to lay hands on King Ahasuerus. [22] So the matter became known to Mordecai, who told Queen Esther, and Esther informed the king in Mordecai’s name. [23] And when an inquiry was made into the matter, it was confirmed, and both were hanged on a gallows; and it was written in the book of the chronicles in the presence of the king.

    A palace coup is a sudden decisive exercise of force in politics and a segment of the ruling elite or even younger officers violently overthrow an existing government. Perhaps the assumption of the two door keepers, Bigthan and Teresh, was that Mordecai will likely be on their side. Mordecai couldn't. He was related to the Queen and the matter was exposed. The matter was written in the annals of the King and forgotten about.

    When people forget your acts of altruism, it can be a mix of emotions. It may range from disappointment to hurt, frustration to annoyance or a feeling of being unseen or being invisible. Some people may even develop a sense of resentment if they had expectations at being rewarded by the king. We may not know how Mordecai felt. We know one thing about these verses... Mordecai's act was not an initiating action awaiting compensations. He was a good man.

   Here is the word about this attitude.

Proverbs 21:21: "Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor."

Psalm 5:12: "For you bless the righteous, O LORD; you cover him with favor as with a shield." Psalm 37:25-26: "I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging for bread. He is ever lending generously, and his children become a blessing." Keep doing good. The reward will come. Good morning.

Conscripted For Marriage

Conscripted For Marriage 

Esther 2:5-8 NKJV

[5] In Shushan the citadel there was a certain Jew whose name was Mordecai the son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish, a Benjamite. [6] Kish had been carried away from Jerusalem with the captives who had been captured with Jeconiah king of Judah, whom Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon had carried away. [7] And Mordecai had brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle’s daughter, for she had neither father nor mother. The young woman was lovely and beautiful. When her father and mother died, Mordecai took her as his own daughter. [8] So it was, when the king’s command and decree were heard, and when many young women were gathered at Shushan the citadel, under the custody of Hegai, that Esther also was taken to the king’s palace, into the care of Hegai the custodian of the women. 

      It is believed according to several historical and rabbinic traditions that Esther was related to King Saul. They were both from the tribe of Benjamin. Mordecai, Esther's cousin, and adoptive father is described as, "the son of Jair",.....( Esther2:5 )...a Benjamite.This kish is believed to be the same  person as was the father of King Saul. This connection adds a deeper meaning to the Book of Esther. Haman was a descendant of King Agag, whom Saul failed to destroy. Don't leave the dregs of the enemy for your children. That is for another day.

    Esther is described as being lovely and beautiful. She was taken to Shushan the Palace, and was brought up with a gathering of young women to choose as a new Queen. Esther stood out because of her beauty and Character. Beyond her physical appearance, Esther found favour with everyone, including the King's eunuch in charge of the women, and ultimately King Ahasuerus himself. You cant help but believe that the contest was going to take a different shape. May all you're involved in take a different shape because God's interested in your case. May today be different for you. May you find favour even in a foreign land. May the King's assistants stand you out. All of these, in Jesus Name. Good morning.

Leadership And Counsels.

Leadership And Counsels

Esther 1:21-22 NKJV

[21] And the reply pleased the king and the princes, and the king did according to the word of Memucan. [22] Then he sent letters to all the king’s provinces, to each province in its own script, and to every people in their own language, that each man should be master in his own house, and speak in the language of his own people.

    Choosing the right leadership advisors is crucial for any leader's success. Memucan was a bad advisor. Effective advisors offer valuable perspectives, challenge assumptions, and provide guidance that align with the leader's vision and goals. Advisors are very essential to lead well. However, when selecting advisors, leaders should consider spiritual depth, closeness to God, expertise, experience, and alignment with kingdom values. Unfortunately, both the advisor and the King were well drunk.

     Imagine sending letters to all the 120 provinces because your wife refused your call for a public display. It  sounds more like a drunken comedy, but this was real. Dr Sanjay Ajal, a Professor of Artificial intelligence says that a leaders ability to choose their afvisors wisely is paramount to their effectiveness and success.It cant be said better. Prov.11:14 says , " Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety". To imagine that no one else spoke after Memucan. There are a whole lot we can insinuate from this King's leadership. 

    The king was very concerned about being the master in one's house. Drunkenness will robb you of mastery. My prayer is that our counselors will be men chosen by God's spirit to counsel appropriately. Good morning.

The Other Reforms Of Nehemiah

The Other Reforms Of Nehemiah 

Nehemiah 13:10-13 NKJV

[10] I also realized that the portions for the Levites had not been given them; for each of the Levites and the singers who did the work had gone back to his field. [11] So I contended with the rulers, and said, “Why is the house of God forsaken?” And I gathered them together and set them in their place. [12] Then all Judah brought the tithe of the grain and the new wine and the oil to the storehouse. [13] And I appointed as treasurers over the storehouse Shelemiah the priest and Zadok the scribe, and of the Levites, Pedaiah; and next to them was Hanan the son of Zaccur, the son of Mattaniah; for they were considered faithful, and their task was to distribute to their brethren.

     " Effective leaders are not just managers of change; they are visionaries who inspire, motivate, and guide individuals towards a better future". That is what Nehemiah was to the people of Israel and Judah. He had gone back to Babylon for a while, then things got messy. Eliaship, the Priest had begun to mismanaged the storerooms. He brought Tobiah to stay in one of the rooms, and he was not a Priest or a Levite.

    Wikipedia reminds us that, " Tobiah was an Ammonite official who attempted to hinder Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Now, he came and took over the storerooms of the Temple for his own use". Isn't this entertaining the devil in the very temple of God? If you remember, in Neh.2:10, this man in company of Samballat and Geshem made every attempt to stop Nehemiah from rebuilding the walls. Now a Priest contained him within the temple. Nehemiah's visit threw his things out of the temple (v.8), and fresh instructions were given to sustain the revival that had started. 

    Not only were the Levites forsaken, the house of the Lord, and fellowship suffered too. Faithful brethren were found to do work in the house of God. It feels like our current situation. We can become so busy to feed that the house of God is abandoned. Today, may the reforms begin with you. Good morning.

Recruiting Citizens For Jerusalem

Recruiting Citizens For Jerusalem

Nehemiah 11:1-3 NKJV

[1] Now the leaders of the people dwelt at Jerusalem; the rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of ten to dwell in Jerusalem, the holy city, and nine-tenths were to dwell in other cities. [2] And the people blessed all the men who willingly offered themselves to dwell at Jerusalem. [3] These are the heads of the province who dwelt in Jerusalem. (But in the cities of Judah everyone dwelt in his own possession in their cities—Israelites, priests, Levites, Nethinim, and descendants of Solomon’s servants.) 

    It would be possible to read this and just pass over it. We must get the picture so we understand the problem. David Guzik helps us here." It wasn’t enough to see the city walls rebuilt and the spiritual renewal of the people of Jerusalem; now they concerned themselves with getting more people into the city." It was a beautiful space for a city, but it had been abandoned for decades. According to Brittannicca, the period must have been between forty eight to seventy years. The prophecy of Jeremiah said seventy years(Jer.29:10). Whatever the time was, it was enough for there to have been a lot of rot. Despite the two seasons of returns, the city was barely occupied.

    Now you have an idea of the people's problem. Jerusalem had to be occupied. So they decided to pick the leaders and others by lot to dwell in the city of Jerusalem while the rest of the people occupied their different cities Guzik says, " Leaders must set the pattern by their lives. They had no right to expect the people to live in Jerusalem if they themselves were not living there". That's a very strong word.

    Leaders had to model the behavior they wanted to see in others. By leading by example, they built trust, fostered a positive culture, and inspired their colleagues to achieve set goals. This approach is crucial for effective leadership.  People want to follow leaders who walk the talk. 

    Leaders who lead by example can inspire their teams to achieve higher goals and perform better. When team members see their leaders going the extra mile, they are more likely to do the same. Are you willing to pay the price for the extra achievements? That willingness is what stands the leader out beyond others. If you feel this way, its part of the call of leadership. Good morning.

Providing For The House of God.

Providing For The House Of God

Nehemiah 10:32-37 NKJV

[32] Also we made ordinances for ourselves, to exact from ourselves yearly one-third of a shekel for the service of the house of our God: [33] for the showbread, for the regular grain offering, for the regular burnt offering of the Sabbaths, the New Moons, and the set feasts; for the holy things, for the sin offerings to make atonement for Israel, and all the work of the house of our God. [34] We cast lots among the priests, the Levites, and the people, for bringing the wood offering into the house of our God, according to our fathers’ houses, at the appointed times year by year, to burn on the altar of the Lord our God as it is written in the Law. [35] And we made ordinances to bring the firstfruits of our ground and the firstfruits of all fruit of all trees, year by year, to the house of the Lord; [36] to bring the firstborn of our sons and our cattle, as it is written in the Law, and the firstborn of our herds and our flocks, to the house of our God, to the priests who minister in the house of our God; [37] to bring the firstfruits of our dough, our offerings, the fruit from all kinds of trees, the new wine and oil, to the priests, to the storerooms of the house of our God; and to bring the tithes of our land to the Levites, for the Levites should receive the tithes in all our farming communities. 

        The people were not going to just make a covenant to keep the laws of God, they made laws to enhance effective functioning of all aspects of their society. The phrase begins, "Also we made ordinances for ourselves...v.32. You may call this direct democracy. In the system, citizens directly participate in decision-making, rather than electing representatives to do so for them. They decided on how to support the work of God, the sustenance of the Levites and Priests as well as make available provisions through the first fruits. Things were shaping together and a Kingdom community was being formed.

     Its is significant to note that one of the issues that has become a matter of dialectics in our time was just mentioned in passing. It's the matter of tithing.They understood that to keep the house of God functioning, there has to be a willing heart to make available provisions. How does your heart react if certain demands are made to sustain God's house. What would have been your provisions if you were asked to contribute. People pay a high price to sustain demonic altars. Let's do better in our time. Let's make our personal laws. Good morning.

 

The Covenant To Keep The Law

The Covenant To Keep The Law

Nehemiah 10:28-31 NKJV

[28] Now the rest of the people—the priests, the Levites, the gatekeepers, the singers, the Nethinim, and all those who had separated themselves from the peoples of the lands to the Law of God, their wives, their sons, and their daughters, everyone who had knowledge and understanding— [29] these joined with their brethren, their nobles, and entered into a curse and an oath to walk in God’s Law, which was given by Moses the servant of God, and to observe and do all the commandments of the Lord our Lord, and His ordinances and His statutes: [30] We would not give our daughters as wives to the peoples of the land, nor take their daughters for our sons; [31] if the peoples of the land brought wares or any grain to sell on the Sabbath day, we would not buy it from them on the Sabbath, or on a holy day; and we would forego the seventh year’s produce and the exacting of every debt.

     After the confessionals, the people decided to bind themselves to a covenant. They did this because they understood that so many people find it difficult to keep the law. In my journeys to preach, I have been to cities where people do not obey the traffic lights they spent money to install. It is as if the installations were meant for others and not themselves. So they got the principals of the land to endorse tge document of action. The Governor, the Priests, the Levites and Leaders in the land endorsed the document.

     The Preachers Homilectical draws our attention to two things that Keil noted, " Besides the general obligation to observe all the commandments, judgments, and statutes of God, two points, then frequently transgressed, are specially mentioned. In Neh 10:30, that we would not give our daughters to the people of the lands, nor take their daughters for our sons. In Neh 10:31, that if the people of the land brought wares or any victuals on the Sabbath day to sell, we would not buy it of them on the Sabbath, or on a holy day; and would let the seventh year lie, and the loan of every hand. To the sanctification of the Sabbath pertained the celebration of the Sabbatical year in which the land was to lie untilled and unsown” (Exo 23:10)".

     The sealing of this covenant was necessary to keep some people who are " adrenaline junkies".There is perhaps no bigger adrenaline rush than breaking the law and going against society. They intended the law must be kept. How do you redpond to the laws that keep us together as a society? How do you respond to street lights when there are no police officers to see you? Do you need a signed covenant to act? Think about it. Good morning.

Stirred By The Word

Stirred By The Word

Nehemiah 8:1-3, 6, 10 NKJV

[1] Now all the people gathered together as one man in the open square that was in front of the Water Gate; and they told Ezra the scribe to bring the Book of the Law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded Israel. [2] So Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly of men and women and all who could hear with understanding on the first day of the seventh month. [3] Then he read from it in the open square that was in front of the Water Gate from morning until midday, before the men and women and those who could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law....[6] And Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God. Then all the people answered, “Amen, Amen!” while lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground...[10] Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

      

     When I read those words, a concept crept up at me: the people were stirred by the words that were read. Someone describes that stirring as refering to, " the arousal or awakening of emotions, actions, or spiritual awareness".  Such stirring can denote both positive and negative connotations, depending on the context in which it is used. The concept of being "stirred" is significant in understanding how God interacts with us, and  how we respond to His promptings. It tells us how emotions and actions are influenced by spiritual or external forces. The word is used in the ESV version in Heb.10:24," Stir up one another". NIV uses, " spur one another on"; and the King James is “consider one another to provoke". The people were stirred by the word, they answered, “Amen, Amen!”. Feel the weight of their answer, which means, "Let it be so!"

    The people prostrated in worship. There are moments you just need to cast aside every care and prostrate for our God. This was the moment. When someone is stirred by the word, it means their emotions or feelings are deeply affected by what they hear or read, leading to a strong reaction or response. This is when people can be moved to action, experience a surge of emotions, or have their thoughts and beliefs challenged. The word  of God can "stir up" a variety of responses, both positive and negative, depending on the context and the individual. May the word of God you hear bring these kind of stirrings and connect us with the King, In Jesus Name. 

     

Excitement And Loneliness

Excitement And Loneliness 

Nehemiah 7:4-6 NKJV

[4] Now the city was large and spacious, but the people in it were few, and the houses were not rebuilt. [5] Then my God put it into my heart to gather the nobles, the rulers, and the people, that they might be registered by genealogy. And I found a register of the genealogy of those who had come up in the first return, and found written in it: [6] These are the people of the province who came back from the captivity, of those who had been carried away, whom Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon had carried away, and who returned to Jerusalem and Judah, everyone to his city.

    Its important to see the picture of the city of Jerusalem and the provinces at this stage, so we may understand the next level of burden Nehemiah had. Guzik observes, " Now that the walls were rebuilt, Nehemiah still wanted to see how he can be a blessing to the people of God and the city of God. He noticed that the population was low and there were many abandoned houses". The experience is a mix of excitement, disorientation, and a sense of displacement.True, they were home, but they were used to older, more established urban environments. Feelings of alienation or loneliness 

likely arose from a lack of familiar landmarks and a sense of community. At the same time, there probably was a sense of novelty and opportunity at what could be done.

    This feeling may well be similar to what we experienced after the Nigerian civil war. We got home alright, but it wasn't really home. Structures had to be set up as temporary accommodations. We were home, but it wasn't the home we left.

    It was then needful to conduct a census to get the picture of everyone. It was important to know who has returned. Time was running out. Soon Nehemiah was to return to Persia. The census raised more complications. Some families couldn't find their names, and some couldn't tell why they claimed to be Priests, or that they even are a part of the family. There was a need for some to wait until there was a Priest with a Urim and Thunim. You can feel the mix of excitement and nostalgia. Well, it was a new beginning. God will carry them on a new lease. When you get these same feelings, don't let anything be done carelessly. Wait on God. Celebrate the joy, but wait on God to finish what He started with you. Good morning.

Appointing Leaders And Setting up Watchers

Appointing Leaders And Setting Up Watchers 

Nehemiah 7:1-3 NKJV

[1] Then it was, when the wall was built and I had hung the doors, when the gatekeepers, the singers, and the Levites had been appointed, [2] that I gave the charge of Jerusalem to my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the leader of the citadel, for he was a faithful man and feared God more than many. [3] And I said to them, “Do not let the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun is hot; and while they stand guard, let them shut and bar the doors; and appoint guards from among the inhabitants of Jerusalem, one at his watch station and another in front of his own house.”

     Nehemiah had received permission to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the city walls, which were in disrepair. 

He served as governor of Jerusalem for 12 years, during which he worked to rebuild the city and implement reforms based on God's law. Now, it was time to return to Persia to fulfill his duties to king Atarxexes. So he appointed Hanani( his brother), who brought the news of the state of the wall (Neh.1:2) as the Governor. He was to be assisted by Hananiah.

    We learnt in literature years ago that a character is known by what he says, does and what others say about him. This is the Bible report on Hanani, " ...for he was a faithful man and feared God more than many"(v.2). Read that again. 1 Cor.4:2, Luke 16:10. Psa.31:23. To be faithful means to be loyal, trustworthy, and steadfast in your commitments, whether to a person, a cause, or a belief. It involves consistently honoring your promises, maintaining your allegiance, and acting in accordance with what you've pledged or believe in, even when faced with challenges or temptations. 

     To fear God means to have a deep reverence, awe, and respect for God's power and authority. It's not a fear that causes terror, but rather a profound understanding of God's nature and a desire to live in accordance with His will. Prov.1:7, Prov.14:26, This fear motivates obedience, humility, and a desire to please God. 

   Before departure, Nehemiah gave the final instructions on how to man the gates and keep security, v.3. Later, he revisited Jerusalem to address issues such as Sabbath violations, intermarriage with non-Jews, and neglecting the Temple, demonstrating that he had not abandoned the city or its people. If you were Nehemiah, what more would you have done? Guzik sums it up: " In the Christian life, often a victory is won and later lost because there was no guard. An enemy may come in because we are not watching. Walls can be climbed if there is no one there to stop the enemy, but an enemy is easily turned back from a wall by a guard". Be on the alert, and watch. Good morning.

    

The Open letter From Sanballat

The Open Letter From Sanballat

Nehemiah 6:5-9 NKJV

[5] Then Sanballat sent his servant to me as before, the fifth time, with an open letter in his hand. [6] In it was written: It is reported among the nations, and Geshem says, that you and the Jews plan to rebel; therefore, according to these rumors, you are rebuilding the wall, that you may be their king. [7] And you have also appointed prophets to proclaim concerning you at Jerusalem, saying, “There is a king in Judah!” Now these matters will be reported to the king. So come, therefore, and let us consult together. [8] Then I sent to him, saying, “No such things as you say are being done, but you invent them in your own heart.” [9] For they all were trying to make us afraid, saying, “Their hands will be weakened in the work, and it will not be done.” Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands.

    Thus far, we believe you're following the stategic attempts of the enemy to compromise Nehemiah and the rulers of Judah. We believe that you're following the strategic responses of Nehemiah. If you're just joining us, it is important to go back and read the rest of the vignettes in these conflicts,  to have an idea on how to respond to satanic triggers. The letter today is one of the several triggers in this attempt.

     This fifth time, its the open letter strategy. According to Shift Communications, " An open letter is a message intended for a specific person or group but made public for anyone to read. The purpose is to address an issue, explain a viewpoint, or rally a call to action. It is usually one component of a more extensive thought leadership, corporate or advocacy strategy". The follow up says that, " Although written for the public, open letters allow an author to connect with key communities and stakeholders directly, and with total control of the message but retain the tone and voice of a personal note".

    The intention of open letters are to " build momentum behind a vision and mission or even be used to help tell a..story. The ultimate focus was to help build momentum of support for Sanballat. David Guzik says that, " Sanballat’s slander began the way many verbal attacks do, as a report of what others have reportedly said.

i. Vague accusations often sound like “Everyone is talking about” or, “A number of people are saying.” Such vague words can very easily give the wrong impression. ii. What Sanballat accused Nehemiah of was false. If a thousand nations reported it, it would not make it true. A popular lie may be more dangerous, but it is not truer because it is popular". 

   This is the reason for deep and intense prayers for those in leadership positions. Nehemiah's response was prayers. Dont let the enemy's open letter win. Good morning.

Distractions From The Plains

Distractions From the Plains 

Nehemiah 6:1-4 NKJV

[1] Now it happened when Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arab, and the rest of our enemies heard that I had rebuilt the wall, and that there were no breaks left in it (though at that time I had not hung the doors in the gates), [2] that Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, “Come, let us meet together among the villages in the plain of Ono.” But they thought to do me harm. [3] So I sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you?” [4] But they sent me this message four times, and I answered them in the same manner.

    The enemy uses distraction as a tactic to hinder growth and prevent people from fulfilling their life purpose. It is by diverting people's focus that the enemy plans to distabilise you from from God and His plan for your life. 1 Peter 5:8 tells us “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” We can change the word "devour" to " "distract" and we will still get the meaning.

    The enemy has distraction as his main occupation. When God confronted it in Job, the devil confessed that it goes to and fro seeking who to devour. Here the four people are used to distract Nehemiah from accomplishing what he came to do from Babylon. Daniel Goleman says that " One way to boost our will power and focus is to manage our distractions instead of letting them manage us." 

    In an article published in August, 2023, by Productivity, the author lists nine ways the enemy can use to distract. They include debts, work, materialism, relationships, social media,etc. Here are a few ways you may need to be alert of today : Trying to shift your focus to the things of the world; hindering growth to stop you from accomplshing purpose; weakening your resistance to temptations; or getting excessive focus on Social media. The forms may  change, but its purpose is to make sure you're unable to accomplish purpose. The solution to distraction is in 1Peter 5:9, " Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world". Resist every distraction today.  Good morning.

The State Of Emergency.

The State Of Emergency 

Nehemiah 4:21-23 NKJV

[21] So we labored in the work, and half of the men held the spears from daybreak until the stars appeared. [22] At the same time I also said to the people, “Let each man and his servant stay at night in Jerusalem, that they may be our guard by night and a working party by day.” [23] So neither I, my brethren, my servants, nor the men of the guard who followed me took off our clothes, except that everyone took them off for washing.

    Pembroke Pines describe State Of Emergency as, " ... a situation in which a government is empowered to perform actions or impose policies that it would normally not be permitted to undertake. A government can declare such a state during a disaster, civil unrest, or armed conflict. Such declarations alert citizens to change their normal behavior and orders government agencies to implement emergency plans". This was the state in Judah. Even people from adjoining villages had to stay in Jerusalem with their children because of the declaration, to help protect the city.

     The appearance of Corona Virus provides us with a modern state of emergency sample. " A state governor or local mayor may declare a state of emergency within his or her jurisdiction. This is common at the state level in response to natural disasters,( or violence ). The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) maintains a system of assets, personnel and training to respond to such incidents". There was no FEMA for Nehemiah. So he made a proclamation for people to stay as watches in Jerusalem.

    Today we would call the strategy a spiritual watch. A spiritual watch, or prayer watch, may be described as a practice where Christians dedicate specific times throughout the day and night to prayer and spiritual discernment. It involves being alert to spiritual realities, praying for the needs of oneself and others, and seeking God's guidance and protection. 

     A "spiritual watch" emphasizes the importance of being spiritually alert and aware of both the enemy's activities and God's plans. It involves actively engaging in prayers, for divine directions, routing the enemy, and being mindful of the potential of possible satanic manipulations.  Mat 26:41, Jesus told the disciples to watch and pray. Isa.62:6, God posted watchmen on the walls of Jerusalem; Acts 16:25-26, Paul and Silas kept a watch through the night and the prison came down. You can declare a state of emergency. You can do it tonight. You're God's Governor here on earth. Good morning.

With One Hand They Worked

With One Hand They Worked .. , And With The Other held A Weapon.

Nehemiah 4:17-21 NKJV

[17] Those who built on the wall, and those who carried burdens, loaded themselves so that with one hand they worked at construction, and with the other held a weapon. [18] Every one of the builders had his sword girded at his side as he built. And the one who sounded the trumpet was beside me. [19] Then I said to the nobles, the rulers, and the rest of the people, “The work is great and extensive, and we are separated far from one another on the wall. [20] Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us.” [21] So we labored in the work, and half of the men held the spears from daybreak until the stars appeared. 

     When we are born, we come with the idea that whenever you cry, things will come to you. We do that for many years until we find out that tears wont solve life problems. Then we learn to fight. One day, we discover that fight may wound us without solutions. Then we learnt to build. Still others may not let our structures stand. So we learn to fight and build. Judah came to the point of building and getting ready to fight and build. Until you get to that point, you wont build.

    This is a report from my Ai, " The statement "we have to fight and build in life" reflects a common human experience. Life presents challenges that require resilience and effort ("fighting"), while also offering opportunities for growth, progress, and creation ("building"). This dual nature of life is often recognized across various perspectives, including personal growth, spiritual beliefs, and even biblical interpretations". 

     Life involves both overcoming challenges and creating something positive. It suggests a dynamic interplay between resilience and progress, where the battles encountered contribute to the foundation of future successes and achievements. The issues are that you are not alone, and you should not give up. If you do, the world will forget you. So build and be ready to fight on your knees, in prayers and spiritual warfare. 

     Note vv 19 & 20. They tell us about the need for cooperation when the battle gets rough and tough. In the midst of it, don't loose the sight that it is God who fights fo us. Sbd the good news is that, He is on our side. Good morning.

A hieghtened State Of Security

A Heightened State Of Security

Nehemiah 4:7-9 NKJV

[7] Now it happened, when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites heard that the walls of Jerusalem were being restored and the gaps were beginning to be closed, that they became very angry, [8] and all of them conspired together to come and attack Jerusalem and create confusion. [9] Nevertheless we made our prayer to our God, and because of them we set a watch against them day and night.

   A heightened Security implies an increase in security protocol. That refers to " increased measures taken to protect a place or ensure access control, often implemented in response to perceived threats or increased security risks. It may involve a variety of actions, including stricter access control, increased surveillance, and greater vigilance among personnel. When a nation, state, or institution experiences a significant incident (e.g., terrorist attack, natural disaster, civil unrest), it often prompts a heightened security response. 

    Judah was faced with five enemies. Some were individuals, others were communities: Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites. When they saw that the walls were being restored, they conspired to attack the children of Israel.

      Sanballat was a Horonite official and the governor of Samaria under the Persian Empire. He is primarily known for this opposition to Nehemiah's effort.Tobiah was an Ammonite official. The Ashdodites were the inhabitants of the Philistine city of Ashdod. The Arabs wete a momadic group identified by their linguistic spread. When opposers arise to projects, its time to pray and prepare 

    God  answers prayers. Don't let anyone kid you. That's why the enemy will try to destroy your prayer life before it attacks. Don't let it happen.They prayed and set a watch. Those two combinations never fail. Pray and watch. Don't take anything for granted. Victory is yours, in Jesus Name. Good morning.

So They mocked, While We Built

So They Mocked, While We Built.

Nehemiah 4:3-6 NKJV

[3] Now Tobiah the Ammonite was beside him, and he said, “Whatever they build, if even a fox goes up on it, he will break down their stone wall.” [4] Hear, O our God, for we are despised; turn their reproach on their own heads, and give them as plunder to a land of captivity! [5] Do not cover their iniquity, and do not let their sin be blotted out from before You; for they have provoked You to anger before the builders. [6] So we built the wall, and the entire wall was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work.

      The mockery of Sandballt was painful enough, but adding another salt to the injury by the  action of the Ammonite was very heavy to break their bones. The Ammonites were a Semitic people who inhabited the region east of the Jordan River, in what is now modern-day Jordan. They were descendants  of Ben-Ammi, a son of Lot who slept with his younger daughter while drunk. They were not a covenant people. They served a god called Milcom, not Jehovah. Yet, they had a mouth to join the mockery. 

    Sometimes the persons trying to mock you down may not even have done the things you have tried. Sometimes they are hiding wounds of their own. We watched a football game on television. A football spectator made so much noise about the game. He criticised every player who made mistakes in the game so loudly. Then the camera man tilted the camera in his direction. We all gasped in horror. He had no legs. They may mock you, but they may actually have no legs. Keep playing. So Israel kept building 

    The prayers of Nehemiah in v.4 is what you pray: " Hear, O our God, for we are despised; turn their reproach on their own heads..". God answered the prayers. Ezek.25:3; Zeph.2:8; Ezek. 21:32. Be careful with a child of God. Keep building while they mock.  We are the builders. Let them remain the mockers. Good morning.

    

Collaborative leadership in Action

Collaborative Leadership In Action 

Nehemiah 3:1-3 NKJV

[1] Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brethren the priests and built the Sheep Gate; they consecrated it and hung its doors. They built as far as the Tower of the Hundred, and consecrated it, then as far as the Tower of Hananel. [2] Next to Eliashib the men of Jericho built. And next to them Zaccur the son of Imri built. [3] Also the sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate; they laid its beams and hung its doors with its bolts and bars. 

     

     Nehemiah understood the state they were in. He knew he had to get the cooperation of the people before anything could be accomplished. Having resources was not enough. He had to get the people to buy into his vision of getting the walls rebuilt. The result of that meeting was action from the people.

     My Ai describes Collaborative leadership as a style where leaders encourage and facilitate teamwork and shared decision-making. It moves away from a traditional top-down approach where leaders make decisions alone, and instead, involves diverse perspectives and insights to reach better outcomes. Nehemiah had no Ai. He had Divine wisdom. His talk was so powerful that the Priests started first. They worked between the Sheep gate and the Tower of Hananel. After that it was free for all. Even the Priests had their share of the work. In normal set ups, they probably wouldn't have been bothered, but this was emergency. 

     In 2013, Change Matrix developed  what they called the 4 Cs coaching model to eliminate disparity in behavioral health.They outlined:  Culture, Change, Conflict and Communication as the components of collaboration . Participants reported gains in: Increased understanding of the value and process of collaboration for themselves and their organizations. They identified and understoond conflict, culture and change as a part of collaboration. They had increased awareness and application of a framework for cross cultural dialogue. Nehemiah's team did not write down their learnings, but it wouldn't have been too different from that. 

    When the project is very big, apply collaborative leadership. Cut up the work into manageable pieces and see your people prosper. You can do it. Nothing  is impossible. Good morning.

The Decision To Build The Walls

The Decision To Build The Walls

Nehemiah 2:17-18 NKJV

[17] Then I said to them, “You see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire. Come and let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer be a reproach.” [18] And I told them of the hand of my God which had been good upon me, and also of the king’s words that he had spoken to me. So they said, “Let us rise up and build.” Then they set their hands to this good work.

     The wall of Jerusalem was meant to act as protection to  the city and the temple. Today, a relic of the wall remain in Jerusalem, called the Western Wall. It still serves as a pilgrimage site for both Christians and Jews. That wall is a tangible reminder that what we are reading in the Bible are not fairy tsles.

     The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews has this in its resource Library. " Over the course of the long and tumultuous history of the Holy City, Jerusalem has been conquered, destroyed, and rebuilt nine times by some of the greatest empires that ever existed, including the Babylonians who destroyed the First Temple and the Romans who destroyed the Second Temple. During these wars, as well as the Bar Kochba Revolt against the Roman Empire and the Maccabees’ war against the Greek Empire, Jewish soldiers fought for the sacred stones of their Holy Temple until their last breaths". The Western Wall is the closest they can get to the site of the old temple 

       The wall was a powerful symbol of Jewish national identity and connection to the land of Israel. It represented the enduring ties between the Jewish people and their homeland, even in periods of hardship and exile. Now it was time to rebuild it. Read Nehemiah's words again: "let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer be a reproach.”  It didn't take a eulogy to mobilize the people. How do your people respond in times of emergency? Their response is an indication of their readiness to work. May God give us men like this....men focused to bring forth results, in Jesus Name. Good morning.

A Man Came To Seek The Welfare Of The People.

A Man Came To Seek The Welfare Of The People 

Nehemiah 2:9-10 NKJV

[9] Then I went to the governors in the region beyond the River, and gave them the king’s letters. Now the king had sent captains of the army and horsemen with me. [10] When Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard of it, they were deeply disturbed that a man had come to seek the well-being of the children of Israel. 

    Your enemies will will hear of your turn around. They will change their mind. To have a turn around means, to have a positive change or improvement in your situation and circumstances. It is a shift from a difficult or challenging period to a more favorable one. It is not just a literal turnaround, like a physical rotation. Its the change in fortune, outlook, and or health. 

   Suddenly, the Amorites heard that a man came for the welfare of the people of Israel. Today, God will send you help and the enemy will hear about it. They won't only hear, they will see the detachment of the Kingdom soldiers sent to help. God has a way of celebrating His children when its breakthrough. Imagine the horsemen strolling around with Nehemiah. Imagine the angels flying around with you. Its time for breakthrough. 

     God may not send a crowd, but He will definitely send a man. Your case is so little that it needs a man. A man of influence is coming out out of your groins. His return will bring blessings and protection. Jehovah will do His work. Good morning.

The Request

The Request 

Nehemiah 2:5-8 NKJV

[5] And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, I ask that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ tombs, that I may rebuild it.” [6] Then the king said to me (the queen also sitting beside him), “How long will your journey be? And when will you return?” So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time. [7] Furthermore I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given to me for the governors of the region beyond the River, that they must permit me to pass through till I come to Judah, [8] and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king’s forest, that he must give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel which pertains to the temple, for the city wall, and for the house that I will occupy.” And the king granted them to me according to the good hand of my God upon me.

     

     Someone says that " Leaders are ladders which others climb to get their desires". Our vignette appear to demonstrate this strongly. It brings to fore the selflessness of Nehemiah. He didn't need to bother himself with the returnees. He was in the King's service.  Selfless leaders do not think like that. A dictionary describes selflessness as disregarding your own advantages over the welfare of others. " If you're selfless, you think less about your self, and more about others — you're generous and kind. Being selfless is similar to being altruistic — another word for giving to others without looking for personal gain. If you give time, money, or things to other people without expecting something in return, that's selfless".

   Nehemiah had opportunity to ask for anything. What would you have asked?  What would an average Politician have asked? What would the average Preacher have asked? Those are rhetorical questions we need to digest before we speak.

   An Ai overview rubs in the details, " A selfless leader prioritizes the needs, well-being, and success of their team and organization above their own personal desires and ambitions. This means making decisions that benefit the collective, even if they might be unpopular or personally challenging. Selfless leaders focus on creating value for others, fostering trust, and inspiring their team to achieve shared goals". These words are deep descriptions of what our nations need all around the globe. 

    When he finally made the request, the house he was to occupy was the last thing. Youll notice he didn't even ask for things for himself. Note also, he was not going back permanently. He was given a time, on leave. This man reminds us of the decision of the Heaven's Divine council to send Jesus. He volunteered to come and be beaten to death,just to save us. What a request? Send me to die....He was born to die for us. Think about that.

    May God give us men. May our generation be the men God will depend on. May more altruistic men arise in our time and in our nations, in Jesus Name. Good morning.

what Do you Request?

What Do You Request?

Nehemiah 2:1-4 NKJV

[1] And it came to pass in the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was before him, that I took the wine and gave it to the king. Now I had never been sad in his presence before. [2] Therefore the king said to me, “Why is your face sad, since you are not sick? This is nothing but sorrow of heart.” So I became dreadfully afraid, [3] and said to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should my face not be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ tombs, lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire?” [4] Then the king said to me, “What do you request?” So I prayed to the God of heaven. 

   Its very instructive that a King of a heathen nation was able to notice the state of his worker. " Why is your face sad, since you are not sick? This is nothing but sorrow of heart.” He was discerning to notice that its not sickness. Some bosses may struggle to recognize or address the personal or professional challenges their employees are facing. This King was different. Failure to notice what the Bible calls, 'the state of your flock'( Prov.27:23 ) could lead to a variety of negative outcomes for the workforce or membership in the church. These may  include reduced productivity, increased stress, and ultimately, higher employee turnover in the work place  or in the church. However, there are steps that can be taken to address these issues and foster a more supportive work environment. You don't have to go to Harvard for these. Neither did the King.

    This is Acts 20:28 " Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood". Jesus refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11). This phrase encourages believers to be attentive and proactive in their responsibilities, mirroring God's care for His people. That's the biggest lesson from a heathen King. 

    How do you treat your staff? My Ai reports that some bosses are unaware of how to treat their staff because of: lack of communication, disconnect between leadership and staff,  lack of empathy or emotional intelligence,  focus on staff and metrics etc. The irony is that Ai might not have read our story. Sometimes, just pause and ask: What's your request? You'd be very surprised at the answers. Good morning.