In an earlier study, we saw that the city of Shushan was “perplexed” when Haman’s law was passed (Est. 3:15). Later in this book, we read about how Shushan “rejoiced and was glad” when Mordecai’s decree was given (Est. 8:15). Why this difference? How could the city go from being “perplexed” to being “glad”?

Put simply; it had to do with who was in charge! Solomon said, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn” (Prov. 29:2). This was the experience of the people of Shushan, and all Persians in those days. When Haman, “the Jews’ enemy” ruled, the people were the ones who suffered for it. Yet, when a change in leadership occurred, it resulted in a change in the people (Est. 8:15)!

The same is true today. No doubt, this is at least part of the reason why God tells us through the apostle Paul to pray for our civil leaders. Specifically, “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty” (I Tim. 2:1-2). Why do we care about who our leaders are? Why do we pray for these people? It is because as the leader goes, so goes the nation! When God-fearing people rule, the country can rejoice and be at peace. When the wicked rule, it is the opposite! Solomon knew it, and these people lived it! They knew the truth about living under a dictator like Haman versus living under a ruler who loved them, like Mordecai.

Are you praying for the leaders of our city, county, state, and country? If not, why not? Do we pray for God’s guidance and God’s providence over this great land? We better get busy! Pushing God out of our lives will bring nothing but sorrow and hardship.

- Jarrod M. Jacobs

When Saul saw Christ on the road to Damascus (Acts 9), among other things, Jesus told Saul that it was hard for him to kick against the goads (pricks, KJV). We might not be familiar with this term since we drive “horseless carriages.” A goad was a pointed instrument strategically placed so that if a horse, ox, or another beast of burden rebelled and kicked, the goad would hurt his hoof or leg and hopefully cause the animal to stop kicking. I have heard the term “goad” or “goading” meaning to urge someone to do something. In this case, it is by one’s remarks that one acts, or is “goaded” into an action. This word is based on the actual instrument called a “goad” that men used on animals long ago.

In the case of Saul, we see that as hard as he tried to fight against God (Acts 26:9), he would discover that it was a losing battle! The “goads” he kicked against only caused him to be injured. God wins every time!

When we read the book of Esther, we find that Haman was fighting a similar battle. He was kicking against “goads” while he served the king. In this case, the “goad” had a name -- Mordecai! It seems that the more Haman kicked against God’s servant, the more he ended up getting hurt! Take, for example, the anger and frustration he felt at Mordecai when he refused to bow (Est. 2:5). Haman thought killing Mordecai and also killing the Jews would make him feel better (Est. 2:6, 12-13). Yet, it wasn’t too many days until Ahasuerus asked Haman to honor someone, and it ended up being Mordecai (Est. 6:1-12)! Ouch! That had to hurt! Then, upon returning home after that parade, his family told him that if he did this for Mordecai, then it must mean that he will fail (v. 13-14). More emotional pain -- this time from his family! Yet, none of this caused Haman to pause, to reflect, or to repent. He was unlike Saul in this way (Acts 9:6, 9-10, 22:16)!

Finally, Haman’s plan was discovered, and in the cruelest twist, he was taken and killed on the very gallows he had made for Mordecai (Est. 7:10, 5:14)! Later, we learn that his ten sons were slain in similar fashion (Est. 9:10, 13-14). Haman finally saw that God wins every time! But it was too late for him.

Against what “goads” are you kicking? Be honest! What are you doing that is opposed to God’s word? Why are you still refusing to repent (Lk. 13:3; Acts 2:38)? The only way to get relief is to stop kicking against God and do what He says! Be like Saul/Paul and change your life while you can. Get forgiveness and live for the Lord (Acts 22:16; II Tim. 4:6-8)! Don’t end up like Haman!

- Jarrod M. Jacobs