Podcasts about Haman

Many people are feeling uneasy about the results of the election for Mayor of New York. Just hours after the results were announced, there were already several anti-Semitic incidents. Rahmana li'slan. In moments like these, we must remember a fundamental truth: no matter what circumstances we find ourselves in, Hashem is always our loving Father. He is controlling every detail that happens every second of every day. Our King does not get elected. Our King does not change every four years. He was, He is, and He always will be the One and only power directing the fate of every individual and every nation. Shlomo HaMelech says in Mishle, פַּלְגֵי־מַיִם לֵב־מֶלֶךְ בְּיַד־יְהוָה עַל־כָּל־אֲשֶׁר יַחְפֹּץ יַטֶּנּוּ . "The heart of a king is like streams of water in the hand of Hashem—wherever He desires, He directs it." The Midrash explains: just like water in a bowl can be tilted effortlessly in any direction, so too the heart of every leader is in the hands of Hashem, and He tilts it exactly as He wills. Whatever Hashem wants to happen, He brings about through the leader. The Malbim there adds a deeper insight: ordinary people are given free will, but a ruler—who has power over multitudes—cannot be allowed unrestricted free will, or he could cause great harm(in general no one can use their free will to affect another person unless Hashem wills it). Therefore, once someone ascends to leadership, Hashem limits his free will and uses him as an instrument to carry out His plan. That is why throughout history, there were leaders believed to be lovers of the Jewish people who suddenly acted with cruelty. And there were others who were assumed to be our enemies, who turned out to be our greatest allies. Once they come into power, they are governed entirely by Hashem's plan. Whatever He wants for Am Yisrael—that is exactly what will unfold. It does not matter who the leader is. Everything depends on our actions. The Gemara teaches that when Achashverosh gave his ring to Haman, that act brought about more teshuvah among the Jewish people than all the Nevi'im throughout history combined. Sometimes Hashem places a leader over us to awaken us, to push us toward teshuvah, to strengthen our emunah, or to remind us that only He controls the world. So the real question is: Are we going to trust in Hashem, or in the headlines? Are we going to believe that Hashem determines our destiny, or that our lives are in the hands of politicians? Yes, Jewish history contains painful chapters. But none of those harsh events ever came because of what a leader wanted. They were all expressions of Hashem's will—and even the difficult decrees came from His love. Like a doctor who administers a painful injection to heal the patient, Hashem sometimes gives us challenges for our ultimate benefit. Everything He does is the absolute best for us. Always. We have been under Hashem's watch, we are under His watch, and we will forever remain under His loving watch. The best thing we can do is strengthen our belief that there is nothing in the world besides Him, and strive to be the best servants of Hashem we can be. It is always our deeds and our tefillot that determine how Hashem guides the world. Baruch Hashem, we have a loving Father watching over us at every moment. That knowledge alone should give us the greatest sense of peace and strength.

Many of our most cherished family traditions revolve around meals. Gathering family and friends around food shapes a group of people in a powerful way. This explains the significance of feasts in the Old Testament. These communal gatherings passed down through the ages connect the past, present, and future in a manner that grounds our identity and orientation to the world. Esther features six feasts that mark out significant moments in the narrative. The first three feasts, two by King Ahasuerus, and the third by Queen Vashti, establish the reality of Israel's exile under foreign powers and sets up the rise of Esther. She, in turn, holds two feasts on consecutive days for the King and Haman which sets up a stunning reversal of fortune for the Jews. Here, in Esther 9-10, we encounter our final feast, Purim, which commemorates the deliverance of the Jews from destruction by Esther's brave action. This feast ensures that future generations, when they partake of this meal, remember the faithfulness of God. That the same God who delivered his people in the past ever lives to care for his people in the present. This is Understanding Esther. Check out the rest of our Understanding Series: https://www.fouroaksmidtown.com/teachings

Come As You Are Series - EsterEsther 4:14  For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”  I think the story of Esther is a good one for this series. Esther was a young Jewish woman who found favor with the king and became the queen.  Her uncle Mordecai adopted her as his own when she was young, as both parents had died.  Mordecai had instructed Esther before she met with the king not to reveal that she was Jewish, and she followed his advice.  This story tells about how a powerful vizier to the king, named Haman, wanted to kill all the Jews living in the Persian Empire on one day.  You see, he was angry because Mordecai refused to bow down to him.  Mordecai explained he only bows down to God, and this angered Haman, who told the king that there were people living throughout his kingdom that did not obey the same laws of the king and that he should not tolerate them.  He convinced the king to issue a decree that would destroy the Jews, and upon doing so, Haman agreed to put ten thousand silver talents into the royal treasury.  When the Jewish people heard, they went into mourning with prayer and fasting.  Mordecai got word to Esther and explained the situation.  He asked Esther to talk to her husband, the king, and beg for the lives of her people to be spared.  Esther explained that if anyone goes in front of the king while he is in the inner courtroom without being summoned, they will suffer immediate death unless he offers them the end of the scepter.   Mordecai wrote back the following in  Esther 4:14 “For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”.  Esther risked her life to go in front of the king, and because of her bravery, she saved her people, God's people.  We do not usually know why we end up where we end up or why we go through the things that we go through.  God is a mystery, and only he knows what he is doing.  He can see the whole picture, past, present, and future.   We can only see the past and present.  I once heard a quote that I really liked and found comforting during some difficult times.  The quote said, “You were assigned this mountain to show others it can be moved.”  I found it comforting to think that by making it through the situation, I would show others that they could make it through, too.  I also used the quote in reverse and thought, “Ok, then I just need to look for someone who has made it through this type of situation to show me that I could make it through as well.”  There is a song by Christina Perri called "I Believe."  In that song, she says, “I believe that you fell so that you would land next to me.”  Have you ever been in a situation where you could just tell that God arranged it?  Sometimes, we can tell what God is doing.  Sometimes, we can feel it in our bones that we are exactly where we were meant to be at that precise moment.  The reason I think Esther's story goes well in this series is that she had to go to the Lord and ask Him to save her people. She needed God on her side if she was going to be able to walk into the inner room where her husband was and not suffer immediate death. She was living as a queen and pretending that she wasn't Jewish. I can imagine it might have been hard to go to the Lord and ask for something, when she was pretending she wasn't Jewish. I can imagine she might have wondered if God would answer her prayers. Would he be mad at her for not being honest with those around her? Would he want to punish her for not practicing her religion? I can see how she might not have felt worthy to go to the Lord and ask for help.Esther knew the Jewish people needed her, and so she rose above her insecurities. She rose above her fear of dying, and she stepped out in faith that God would not let her and her people perish. She stepped out in faith, and she saved her people. Can you relate to Ester? Have you stepped away from God? Have you pretended that He is not there, or that you weren't His child? It's ok. Come back to Him, just as you are, and He will welcome you with open arms. I know this is hard to believe, as that is not how those we know in this world behave. This world is broken, and so are the people living in it. We often struggle to forgive and forget. We hold onto things and resent people for the things that they do.God is not like us. He is for us, not against us. He loves us unconditionally and is just waiting for us to come to him so he can pick us up in His arms and give a giant hug.  If you ever wonder what it will be like when you turn back to the Lord. If you ever wonder what God's response will be, you can look in the Bible at Luke 15:20. “ So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him.” You don't even have to walk all the way back to the Father. As soon as God sees you headed in His direction, He will run towards you, put his arms around you, and kiss you. That is how much He loves you and wants you to come to Him, just as you are!! Trust that God is for you. Trust that He wants you to come to Him. Trust that no matter what you have done, you can still come to Him.Dear Heavenly Father, I ask that you bless all those listening to this podcast today. Lord, we thank you for making us who we are meant to be. We thank you for placing us in this time of need.  We ask that you be with everyone who is struggling right now.  Lord, we ask that you give us the strength and perseverance to keep going. We ask that you show us those who have come before us, who have overcome similar circumstances, and give us the knowledge that we, too, can overcome the circumstances. Lord, help us believe that despite all we have said and done, we can still come to you and you will still be waiting for us with open arms. Lord, you are amazing, and we're so very thankful for all you do for us.  We love you, Lord, and we ask all of this in accordance with your will and in Jesus ' holy name, Amen.Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus! I look forward to meeting you here again tomorrow. Especially because I get to bring you my Witness Wednesday from my trip to Ecuador, and I can't wait to share all the miracles with you. It was a truly blessed time, and I am so grateful that God let me share in these miracles. I hope you will listen in tomorrow and continue to pray for Anibal. Remember, Jesus loves you just as you are, and so do I! Have a blessed day!Today's Word from the Lord was received in June 2025 by a member of my Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group. If you have any questions about the prayer group, these words, or how to join us for a meeting, please email CatholicCharismaticPrayerGroup@gmail.com. Today's Word from the Lord is, “My children, I keep telling you, do not fear. I keep telling you, I am right next to you and I am all-powerful. You may be weak, but I am strong. Move forward in trust. Move forward in my will. Move forward. ” www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

When Mordecai learns that he and his people are ascribed a date of destruction by the king and Haman, his inner grief overflows and pours out. The queen, Esther, learns of his grief and seeks to find out what is happening. Mordecai pours out his heart to her, and there is much we can learn from this heavy interaction. - Pastor Kevin

11/02/2025 - Chris Randall - The Height of Pride: Haman's Gallows (Esther 5:9-14) by Faith Community Church of South Boston, VA

Send us a textHow to humiliate a tyrant could be the subtitle to today's presentation. Haman is forced to honor his enemy, Mordecai, on the king's orders. If Haman had ceased from hating Mordecai, he could have changed his tomorrow, today. In this presentation, we will learn how to change our tomorrow through humility, how honoring others leads to blessings, how to deflect our enemy's attempts to curse us, and how God's timing in blessing us is perfect. My name is Stephanie Wright. Thank you for joining us in Episode 6, "Change Your Tomorrow, Today." My name is Stephanie Wright. Thank you for joining us today.Let's get started.  If you want to contact us or comment on this podcast, please visit our website and select www.cgmissions.com/podcasts, where all episodes are available by category in series format. You can see the most recent video and audio podcasts at: www.youtube.com/@cgmissionsinc then select from the video or podcast"Playlist." CGM is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Donations may be made on our website:https://www.cgmissions.com/donate-here-general-and-wecare/

One of the dominant themes in the Bible is how the weak overcome the strong. Esther illustrates this dynamic by how she channels the strength of others against themselves. The authority and emotional volatility that makes the King a fearsome tyrant becomes the means by which Esther brings salvation to her people. The massive ego of Haman that drives his murderous crusade against the Jews becomes the cause of his downfall. Words and indirect influence enable Esther to act with great agency in a world with the cards stacked against her. Yet she's not alone. Remember Esther means “hidden” which not only describes her concealed Jewish identity, but also the hidden way in which God works in the background on behalf of his people. In chapters 7-8, Esther's hiddenness gets exposed which places her at the mercy of the “hidden” sovereignty of God. The stakes rise as the various threads of the narrative come together in surprising and unexpected ways. This is Understanding Esther. Check out the rest of our Understanding Series: https://www.fouroaksmidtown.com/teachings

What does biblical success actually look like? In this episode, Pastor Nate Brown, Pastor Daniel Hayworth, and Pastor Josh Brown tackle one of the most culturally distorted topics: success, ambition, and stewardship.This is episode 7 in the Point of View series, where we examine major life topics through the lens of Scripture. Using Romans 12:2 as the foundation—"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind"—the hosts explore the story of Haman from Esther Chapter 3 as a cautionary tale about selfish ambition.You'll hear how Solomon, despite achieving everything the world calls success, ultimately concluded it was all "chasing the wind" without God at the center. The conversation covers the dangerous ditches of laziness and workaholism, explaining how faithfulness creates the middle lane Christians should pursue.✅ You'll discover:The difference between godly ambition and selfish ambitionHow Haman's pursuit of honor led to his destructionWhy work becomes worship when done for the Lord (Colossians 3:23)The importance of anchoring your ambition in God's assignmentHow to avoid the twin dangers of laziness and workaholismPerfect for your morning commute or workout, this episode equips you with biblical confidence to define success God's way. The hosts reference key passages including Romans 12:2, Esther Chapter 3, Ecclesiastes, Colossians 3:23, and Philippians 3:12-14.Coming up: Special guest Pastor Rob McCoy joins the podcast as we close out the Point of View series. Subscribe now for new episodes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 7 AM CT.This is the Under God Podcast—biblical wisdom for real-world battles. You're not fighting alone.

Every decision we make has consequences, whether good or bad. This is especially true for our evil and sinful choices. Haman's story is an excellent warning to us. 

Mentioned in the Episode and Other Links of Interest:The YouTube version of this conversation.This episode's sponsor, The Swan Brothers.The HamanNature substack.Help support the Bob Murphy Show.

Do we not behold a weak, defenseless handful of men wonderfully and otherwise unaccountably preserved from ruin in the midst of potent, enraged and turbulent enemies who gladly would, but cannot, destroy them; when as yet no natural impediment can be assigned why they cannot? And if this puzzles us, what shall we say when we see events produced in the world for the good of God's chosen people, by those very hands and means which were intentionally employed for their ruin? These things are as much beside the intentions of their enemies, as they are above their own expectations; yet such things are no rarities in the world. Was not the envy of Joseph's brethren, the cursed plot of Haman, and the decree procured by the envy of the princes against Daniel, with many more of the same kind—all turned by a secret and strange hand of Providence to their greater advancement and benefit? Their enemies lifted them up to all that honor and preferment they had.

Preached at Indian Gap Baptist Church-- Indian Gap, Texas www.indiangapbaptist.com Pastor Keegan Hall

The king and Haman join forces to manifest Haman's hatred of God's people, the Jews, in a written decree to destroy the entire race. And we can learn so much from this story about how our enemy works, even today, to bring about our destruction. But we must never forget that God will bring victory in His own time, according to His own purposes, and so we walk in His victory. - Pastor Kevin

As we continue our series on Esther, we're introduced to the antagonist of the story — Haman, the enemy of the Jews. Though things look hopeless for God's people, even in the face of their enemies, the providence of God is quietly at work behind the scenes. Passage: Esther 3

We delve into the dramatic story of Esther, a young Jewish orphan who becomes queen of Persia. As King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) returns to Susa after his defeat in Greece, he seeks a new queen, leading to Esther's rise to influence. However, danger looms as Haman, a high-ranking official, plots to annihilate all Jews in the Persian Empire. Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @biblelitTwitter: @bible_litFacebook: @biblelitEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.org Want to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out ou...

When the pressure rises, do you stay poised—or do you lash out? In For Such a Time as This (Part 7), Pastor Carter teaches how Esther remained calm, wise, and emotionally intelligent in the face of danger, while Haman's pride sent him spiraling into outrage.This message will help you:

The Prince in Persia (vv. 1-6) Haman's Plan (vv. 7-9) The King's Law (vv. 10-15)

Send us a textWe are celebrating five years of podcasting in 2025 by revisiting our archives and rebroadcasting select episodes since June 20, 2020. This is Stephanie Wright. Thank you for joining us for Episode 18, “One Thing” from the Queen Esther series. Let's get started.One thing, one thing. Today, we are asking a very important question. What is that one thing that is holding you back from your blessings? Haman, who had blessings beyond what he deserved could not see the blessings because he was so consumed with hatred for Mordecai. Today, we look at the one thing that led to Haman's demise. Let's go to our presentation, Queen Esther, "One Thing." If you want to contact us or comment on this podcast, please visit our website and select www.cgmissions.com/podcasts, where all episodes are available by category in series format. You can see the most recent video and audio podcasts at: www.youtube.com/@cgmissionsinc then select from the video or podcast"Playlist." CGM is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Donations may be made on our website:https://www.cgmissions.com/donate-here-general-and-wecare/

Preached at Indian Gap Baptist Church-- Indian Gap, Texas www.indiangapbaptist.com Pastor Keegan Hall

In this powerful message from our Seen & Heard series, Pastor Jeff unpacks the story of Esther — a woman divinely positioned to change history. Through the lives of Esther, King Ahasuerus, Mordecai, and Haman, we discover how God strategically places His people for purpose and influence. This sermon, You Are Called for a Time Like This, explores four key truths: God positions you with purpose (Esther 2:17). Alignment with your assignment brings courage — danger is real, but fear is optional (Esther 4:13–14). Where God positions you, His favor follows (Esther 5:1–5). God's favor is your reward when you walk in obedience (Esther 8:1–2). You're not where you are by accident — you're right where God needs you, for such a time as this. Tune in and be reminded that divine timing and purpose always intersect for those who walk in faith.

Fr. Mike walks us through the signing of the covenant in Nehemiah 10 and relates Israel's collective decision to belong to God to our personal encounters with God that inspire us to follow him simply because he has called us. He also offers insight on how God used the physical weakness of Esther to move the king's heart to gentleness. Today's readings are Nehemiah 10, Esther 15, 6-7, and Proverbs 21:13-16. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Message from morning service - Church on the Hill, San Jose, CA

Today's readings remind us that all good things come from God, and he calls us to specific places and times for a reason. In the book of Esther, Fr. Mike points out that Esther was perfectly positioned to fulfill God's will. We too, can examine our lives and realize that there are places God has brought us, "for such a time as this". The readings are Nehemiah 9, Esther 4 and 14, and Proverbs 21:9-12. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

As Fr. Mike reads from Nehemiah today, we hear about how the hearts of the people of Israel were moved as Ezra reads the book of the law of Moses to them. In our reading of Esther, we have the beginning of the crisis that will unfold throughout the book as Haman, backed by the king, seeks to destroy the Jews. Today's readings are Nehemiah 8, Esther 3 and 13, and Proverbs 21:5-8. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Haman's rage consumed him, and his plot backfired in dramatic fashion. Unchecked anger not only harms others, but it also destroys us.

Haman's rage consumed him, and his plot backfired in dramatic fashion. Unchecked anger not only harms others, but it also destroys us.

When Mordecai refused to bow, Haman's anger grew into hatred. What began as one man's resistance became a decree of destruction for an entire people. Esther 3 confronts us with the dangers of pride and unchecked power, and asks what it means to remain faithful when evil is given authority.

Through a new decree that was passed, the Jews are able to defend themselves and find victory against Haman's evil plot. They then inaugurate the Feast of Purim as a celebration and remembrance of God's deliverance. Although we do not celebrate Purim, we have a greater joy, a greater victory, a greater understanding of God's deliverance under the New Covenant in the act of communion. Therefore, we can live from a place of strength and victory and know joy and celebration even in a world of despair and chaos.

Haman designed a plan for the king to honor himself, but he surprisingly used those directions to honor his enemy, Mordecai. Do the right thing, and honor will come to you in the right way and at the right time.

Haman designed a plan for the king to honor himself, but he surprisingly used those directions to honor his enemy, Mordecai. Do the right thing, and honor will come to you in the right way and at the right time.

Every one of us faces threats to our security, our significance, and our relationships. When we don't process those threats God's way, fear, pride, and anger take over—and like Ahab, Jezebel, or Haman, it can lead to ruin. But when we learn to RELATE, we find freedom and true love. RELATE stands for: Reroute my thinking Elevate others List my threats Accept my part Turn from my sin Enlist accountability In this message, we walk through the stories of Ahab & Naboth and Queen Esther to see how people respond when they feel threatened. Some collapse in selfishness, others rise in faith. How you process threats determines which side of history you'll be on.  Scriptures: 1 Kings 21, Esther 1–7, John 14, Luke 12, Revelation 21, Psalm 8  Key takeaway: God has already spoken about your security, your significance, and your relationships. The question is—do you believe Him? Subscribe for more sermons and messages of hope. Like & share this video to encourage someone who is struggling in their relationships. #RELATE #Sermon #Esther #ChristianRelationships #Faith

The narrative recounts the aftermath of a decisive victory for the Jewish people, detailing the king's inquiry into the extent of the conflict and Queen Esther's subsequent requests for an extension of the edict and the public display of Haman's sons. The passage highlights the king's trust in Esther and Mordecai, emphasizing their faithfulness to God's purpose and the Jews' commitment to honoring the Lord, ultimately portraying a picture of divine protection and victory over unseen enemies through obedience and unwavering faith.

Esther finds herself in a dangerous predicament. Haman, one of the top officials in the Persian government, has persuaded King Xerxes to issue a royal edict to annihilate all the Jewish people in the empire. Mordecai implores Esther to present herself before the king to intercede on behalf of her people. But doing so would mean risking her own death. However Esther is able to take on this righteous risk through fasting. In the face of great evil, God's people are to faithfully steward their God-given opportunities with clarity and courage.

Synopsis: God has openly mocked and shamed Israel's adversaries and impaled the writ of death on Haman's execution pole along with him, foreshadowing the great Peripety of the Cross (Colossians 2:13-14). Sermon Text: Esther 8

The future looks bleak for the people of God. With the king's signet ring in hand, Haman has devised a scheme to wipe out God's people, whom he hates because of his hatred for Mordecai. It seems that the only hope for God's people rests with Queen Esther, a young woman who has become fully enveloped into Persian culture. Today, Esther continues on her patient quest to woo King Ahaseurus into a hearing her case against Haman. Before today's episode ends, Haman's wrath will return on his head through both humiliation and execution, and God's people will celebrate a day of great blessing and favor even in the midst of exile.Esther 6 - 1:12 . Esther 7 - 4:35 . Esther 8 - 7:51 . Esther 9 - 12:23 . Esther 10 - 19:47 . Isaiah 24 - 20:42 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The account of Esther, the Jewish orphan who becomes the queen of Persia, is neither a Cinderella story, nor a how-to guide for righteousness. It does, however, give us a picture of the God who graciously uses broken people to achieve His glorious ends and fulfill His covenant promises. The names that the two Jewish characters operate under, Esther and Mordecai, are names that actually give honor to Persian gods. The book reflects how they operate under this saturation of Persian culture by mentioning the Persian king 190 times while God is never mentioned. On today's episode we meet Esther, Mordecai, King and Ahaseurus, and the self-righteous enemy of God's people: Haman.Esther 1 - 1:13 . Esther 2 - 6:27 . Esther 3 - 12:45 . Esther 4 - 16:49 . Esther 5 - 21:12 . Isaiah 23 - 25:01 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Esther 8:3 ASVAnd Esther spake yet again before the king, and fell down at his feet, and besought him with tears to put away the mischief of Haman the Agagite, and his device that he had devised against the Jews.

Hope for Hard Days ReCreate Church | Michael Shockley | September 7, 2025 Esther Series, Part 9: Esther 9, 10 ---------- EPISODE SUMMARY In the final episode of the Esther series, Michael Shockley explores how God works through our worst days to bring about His greatest victories. Through the creative story of Hayden and Morty (paralleling Haman and Mordecai), discover how what appears to be a day of destruction becomes a day of deliverance for God's people. As Esther chapters 9-10 unfold, watch the ironic reversal where the enemies of the Jews are defeated, leading to the establishment of the holiday Purim. From the cafeteria catastrophe to the Persian Empire's transformation, learn how God's unseen hand can flip any story - even turning the worst day in history (the Crucifixion) into humanity's brightest hope. This message reminds us that God doesn't cause our worst days, but He absolutely redeems them. Core Message: God works through our worst days. ---------- KEY TOPICS COVERED The Hayden and Morty Story Introduction - Creative allegory of middle school cafeteria drama - Hayden's quest for revenge against his spelling bee nemesis Morty - The setup for disaster with gravy, creamed asparagus, and chocolate milk - Parallel to the Haman and Mordecai conflict in the Book of Esther - Cliffhanger moment showing how quickly situations can change The Historical Context of Esther 9-10 - Recap of the escalated grudge that led to genocidal decree - Haman's plot against the Jews and his subsequent downfall - The irreversible nature of Persian law requiring a counter-decree - Nine months between the plot's discovery and the day of execution - The choice given to potential attackers to change sides The Day of Reversal (Esther 9:1-5) - The 13th of Adar: from planned destruction to actual deliverance - "The opposite occurred" - complete reversal of expectations - Fear of Mordecai and the Jews falling upon their enemies - Government officials helping the Jews due to Mordecai's prominence - The Jews defeating their enemies throughout the 127 provinces The Spiritual Parallel to God's Law - The Law of Righteousness exposing all people as condemned - God's refusal to lower His standards of perfection - The Law of Grace through faith in Jesus as the "second decree" - Substitution: Jesus taking our punishment on the Cross - Imputation: Christ's righteousness credited to our account The Battle Results and Aftermath - 500 enemies killed in the capital city of Shushan - 75,000 total defeated throughout the Persian Empire - The death of Haman's ten sons (grown men who supported the decree) - The Jews refusing to take spoils - focused on defense, not wealth - Two days of battle followed by peace and celebration The Establishment of Purim - Mordecai's letters establishing an annual holiday - The 14th and 15th of Adar becoming days of celebration - Feasting, joy, gift-giving to family and the needy - The meaning of "Purim" - referring to the lots (Pur) Haman cast - God directing even the roll of dice to accomplish His purposes The Unseen Hand of God - God's fingerprints everywhere despite His name never being mentioned - From orphan and intended victim to champions of peace - The transformation of superstition into recognition of divine favor - How apparent coincidences reveal providence in hindsight The Conclusion of Hayden and Morty - The backpack tear held together by failing duct tape - The pencil on the floor causing Hayden's spectacular fall - The complete reversal: Hayden covered in food, Morty triumphant - "You got served" - divine justice with a sense of humor - From cafeteria catastrophe to unexpected hero status God's Redemption of Our Worst Days - How God doesn't cause our worst days but redeems them - The parallel between Esther's story and the Cross - Turning the day of Crucifixion into humanity's brightest hope - Personal application for loss, failure, betrayal, and current struggles - The invitation to trust Jesus with all we dread ---------- MEMORABLE QUOTES "God works through our worst days." "The Unseen Hand of God turned the day of destruction into the day of deliverance." "He is our Substitute when it comes to the punishment, and His Righteousness is Imputed to us. Which is to say, He suffered through the test, and we got the passing grade." "Even the naming of the holiday shows that God directed even the roll of the dice to choose the day." "God's Name is never spoken, but God's fingerprints are everywhere." "God never wastes our pain. He doesn't cause our worst days, but He redeems them." "If God could turn the horrible day of Crucifixion into the brightest hope in history, He can redeem your story, too." "You got served." (Lunch Lady Loretta) "Got milk?" (Morty) ---------- BIBLICAL FOUNDATION - Primary Text: Esther 9:1-5, Chapters 9-10 complete - Key Theme: Divine reversal and redemption through apparent defeat - Historical Context: The 13th of Adar and the establishment of Purim - Theological Concepts: Substitution and imputation through Christ - Gospel Connection: How God redeems our worst days through the Cross - Literary Note: God's providence shown without direct divine mentions ---------- PRACTICAL APPLICATION If You're Experiencing Your Worst Day Right Now: - Remember that God specializes in flipping stories and reversing outcomes - Trust that what feels like destruction may be setting up deliverance - Know that God's unseen hand is working even when you can't see it - Understand that apparent coincidences often reveal divine providence If You're Dealing with Past Failures and Regrets: - Recognize that God doesn't waste pain but redeems it for purpose - Remember that your worst moments don't define your final story - Trust that the same God who redeemed the Cross can redeem your past - Allow time and perspective to reveal how God was working all along If You Feel Condemned by Your Imperfections: - Understand that God's law reveals our need, not our hopelessness - Know that perfection is required, but Christ provides it for us - Trust in substitution: Jesus took your punishment on the Cross - Believe in imputation: Christ's righteousness is credited to your account If You're Waiting for Justice: - Remember that God's timing often involves longer processes than we expect - Trust that divine justice is more complete than human revenge - Know that God can turn your enemies' attacks into your strengthening - Understand that true victory often looks different than expected If You Haven't Trusted Jesus Yet: - Consider how the Cross transformed history's worst day into its best news - Understand that salvation comes through faith, not perfect performance - Know that God can flip your story no matter how bad it seems - Trust Jesus with all you dread and receive His redemption today ---------- THE ULTIMATE INVITATION Maybe you're living through what feels like your worst day. Loss, failure, betrayal, diagnosis, job loss, or consequences from past mistakes. Perhaps you feel like Morty, about to be destroyed by forces beyond your control. Or maybe you feel like Hayden, watching your carefully laid plans collapse in spectacular failure. The good news of Esther - and the even greater news of the Gospel - is that God works through our worst days. He doesn't cause them, but He redeems them. The same God who turned a day of destruction into deliverance for the Jews, who turned the horror of Crucifixion into the hope of salvation, can flip your story too. Trust Him with all you dread. Trust Jesus for salvation. Your worst day may be setting up God's greatest work in your life. ---------- CONNECT WITH RECREATE CHURCH - Website: recreatechurch.org - Support the Ministry: Give through the Tithe.ly app or offering boxes ---------- What worst day in your life needs God's redemptive touch? Are you trusting in your own ability to fix things, or surrendering to the God who specializes in impossible reversals? God works through our worst days - let Him work through yours.

Haman's hatred of the Jews incited him to seek their destruction. Any type of perceived superiority based on nationality or ethnicity is unfounded and ungodly. 

Haman's hatred of the Jews incited him to seek their destruction. Any type of perceived superiority based on nationality or ethnicity is unfounded and ungodly. 

Haman's hatred of the Jews incited him to seek their destruction. Any type of perceived superiority based on nationality or ethnicity is unfounded and ungodly. 

In a new type of crossover episode, Adam Haman and Bob Murphy provide an in-depth analysis of Frank Miller's classic graphic novel, Batman: The Dark Knight Returns. They also relate Miller's depiction to other treatments of the world's greatest detective.Mentioned in the Episode and Other Links of Interest:The YouTube version of this conversation.This episode's sponsor, The Swan Brothers.Links to old Batman clips (one and two). The YouTube version of the animated Dark Knight Returns (Part I and Part II).The HamanNature substack.Help support the Bob Murphy Show.

Psalm 149 (NCV)Andrew, Isack, and Edwin discuss the last half of Psalm 149, considering the meaning behind having the two-edged sword bringing judgment on all the nations. They consider both a potential literal meaning and a figurative meaning. Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=22793The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

In this Bible Story, the invisible and silent hand of God is used mightily in the life of Esther. In the presence of a great threat to the jews in the Persian empire, an unlikely hero is raised up to save them. This story is inspired by Esther 5:9 - 10:3. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Esther 10:1 from the King James Version.Episode 170: As Queen Esther got ready to enter the King's Chambers, she knew she was risking her life by showing up uncalled for. However, God had gone ahead of her and softened the King's heart. So she invited the King and Haman to a feast and the King was glad to attend. During this feast, she asked the King if he would be willing to attend a second feast for him and Haman a second time. It was at this second feast that Queen Esther made her true intentions known as she asked the King to save her and her people from the wicked Haman.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.This episode is sponsored by Medi-Share, an innovative health care solution for Christians to save money without sacrificing quality.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Bible Story, Esther is taken to be groomed as the next queen of Persia. She gains favor with the king as did her uncle Mordecai. However a wicked noble has the king’s power - Haman, and sends out a decree for every jew in the nation to be killed. This story is inspired by Esther 1-5:8. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Esther 5:3 from the King James Version.Episode 169: One evening, during the third year of the reign of Xerxes, a massive feast was held to show off his wealth. During this feast, he ordered for his queen to be brought out in front of the men. But Queen Vashti refused and the King banished her for it. After the feast, the King had women brought from all over the country to be seen by him. One of these women was a Jewish woman named Esther from the city of Susa and raised by her uncle Mordecai. After long and rigorous treatments, she was chosen by the King to be his new Queen. Meanwhile, her uncle Mordecai was doing everything he could to keep an eye on his niece. One day while standing guard at the King's gate, he overheard two of his servants plotting to kill him. He told Esther and she in turn told the King. However, one of the King's servants, Haman hated Mordecai for not bowing down to him. In his hatred, Haman enacted a plot to exterminate all the Jews in Xerxes' kingdom.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In another crossover episode, Adam Haman asks Bob about his doubts/concerns on various parts of Richard Werner's recent appearance on the Tucker Carlson show. This discussion is on the heels of Bob's episode of the Human Action podcast with Jonathan Newman, where they responded to Werner's interview from an Austrian economics perspective.Mentioned in the Episode and Other Links of Interest:The YouTube version of this conversation.This episode's sponsor, The Swan Brothers.The Richard Werner appearance on Tucker Carlson.Bob's Human Action podcast episode with Jonathan Newman, discussing Werner.Bob's infineo blog post going over the accounting; his latest HA episode walking through these examples.The HamanNature substack.Help support the Bob Murphy Show.

If social media and certain influential podcast hosts are to be believed, cold plunges can do everything from boosting your immune system to reducing inflammation to acting as an antidote for depression. But what does the science say? Joining Host Flora Lichtman to throw at least a few drops of cold water on this science of plunging is biologist François Haman, who studies human performance and cold exposure.And, with the help of the HBO show “Last Week Tonight,” a minor league baseball team in Pennsylvania rebranded themselves the Erie Moon Mammoths. That comes just a few months after the Utah NHL franchise renamed itself the Utah Mammoth as a nod to that state's paleontological past. So, why are mammoths back? And do they really have what it takes to be a successful team mascot? Paleontologist Advait Jukar joins Host Flora Lichtman to weigh in.Guests: Dr. François Haman is a biologist at the University of Ottawa who studies how the human body responds to extreme environments.Dr. Advait Jukar is the assistant Curator of Vertebrate Paleontology at the Florida Museum of Natural History.Transcripts for each episode are available within 1-3 days at sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Plus, to stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.