Motivation - Est. 8:17

"And many of the people of the land became Jews themselves, for they feared what the Jews might do to them." Est. 8:17

How ironic is this?! Just a great illustration of God's providence. Evil Haman plots to have the Jews annihilated (how many time in history has this happened?)--in the end, he himself is killed by the king's order, Mordecai is elevated to his now vacant position and takes all his land and possessions, the Jews are given the right to defend themselves (they are ultimately victorious), and the Jewish nation actually GROWS instead of being decimated! God truly works all things for good... This verse in Esther, however, makes me think about end times. If people convert to Christianity simply out of fear of what is to come, are they REALLY saved? I know, only God knows their hearts, but it does make me wonder about the motivation of these people who converted to Judaism.

Lord, the fact that you have a plan is clearly illustrated in this story. Thank you for your incredible provision and sovereignty, and thank you for people like Esther who are willing to be obedient even unto death. You are an awesome God! I pray you make your will clear in my life so I can always respond as Esther did.

Today's reading: Est. 3-8; Lk. 18