Three & One

Esther agrees with her uncle Mordecai that she has been brought to the kingdom as Queen for such a time as this, to save God’s people. Haman hatches a plot but it backfires big time. And, Paul pens another corrective letter to the Corinthians.

A plot to kill God’s people. A woman caught in the crosshairs, as the Queen. Born, brought to this point, for such a time as this. And, the Apostle Paul gives his concluding remarks to the Corinthians.

Great joy, great singing, great rejoicing, in Jerusalem, for the wall had been rebuilt. Nehemiah cleans house, literally, restoring the Levites rightful operation, restricting commerce on the Sabbath. And, Paul talks about life after resurrection.

A covenant to care, to care for the commandments of God, including giving to God, not neglecting the house of God. Some of the returning remnant live in Jerusalem. And, Paul teaches us that gifts are given to give away.

The names and the numbers of the second remnant that returned. Ezra read the Word of the Lord. The Levites helped the people understand and apply, which led them to worship. And, the Apostle Paul teaches us that love is a tone.

The Wall is defended against enemies. Nehemiah deals with oppression within and opposition from without, as a generous governor. Much to the chagrin of his enemies the wall is finished. And, the Apostle Paul speaks of spiritual gifts.

Nehemiah prays for his people. Nehemiah is sent to Judah with a vision. Before he shares the vision, he views the destruction, for three days. Then, he rallies the remnant to rise and work. And, Paul corrects conduct in the church.

Ezra prays. Ezra weeps. The people gather. Their hearts are broken as well, in repentance, making tough choices, really tough choices, as holiness takes priority over preference. And, the Apostle Paul teaches us about Old Testament examples.

Ezra is allowed to return, allowed to lead another remnant to return to Israel. God’s hand is on him, providing and protecting, until he arrived, only to see infidelity in the first wave. And, Paul speaks of disciplined, sacrificial evangelism.

The remnant receives resistance, including open letters to the authorities. Discouragement sets in and they sit down, until a couple of prophets come along speaking encouragement, exhortation and comfort. And, we learn that knowledge puffs up but love edifies.

A remnant returns to rebuild the Temple and to restore the true worship of God in the Temple. Their names are listed their faith is acknowledged their joy is heard as well as the sorrow of some. And, Paul talks about affection within the confines of the covenant of marriage.

Josiah reigns in Jerusalem. Josiah restores the true worship of God in the Temple, including an amazing Passover celebration. It was the best of days with the worst of days to come. And, Paul talks about glorifying God in all that we do.  

Hezekiah reforms. Sennacherib boasts, is defeated and dies. Hezekiah humbles himself is tested and dies. Manasseh reigns. And, Paul teaches us HOW to judge within the church.  

Ahaz is all sorts of messed up, just straight up wicked, and under his reign Judah pays the price. But then, as all men do Ahaz died and his son Hezekiah ruled, righteously and swiftly. And, Paul continues to correct the Corinthians.

Amaziah as king has a quandary with hired help and with pride. Uzziah as king was amazing until he became strong. Jotham as king was obedient, partially. And, Paul talks of watering, working, warning and worldly wisdom.

Ahazia reigns in Judah. Athalia reigns in Judah. Joash is crowned king in Judah. Athalia is executed. Joash repairs the Temple. Joash walks away from God later in life. Joash dies. And, the Apostle Paul speaks of spiritual wisdom.

King Jehoshaphat is rebuked for aligning with Asa. Instead of sulking, he continued establishing others in the fear of the Lord. A war is won in worship, because the battle belonged to God. King Jehoram has intestinal issues. And, Paul writes to the Corinthians.

King Asa consults with the King of Syria instead of seeking the Lord. King Jehoshaphat reigns righteously in Judah. A prophet warns King Ahab to no prevail. And, The Apostle Paul thanks all of his co-laborers in Christ, at Rome.

Civil war ensues and those who call upon the name of the Lord win, against overwhelming odds, twice. Asa responds to prophecy by reaffirming Judah’s commitment to God. And, we continue our conversation about limiting our liberties in love.