Thurs.’s Devo - Divine Reversals

Read: Esther 8:1-10:3; 1 Corinthians 12:27-13:13; Psalm 37:1-11; Proverbs 21:23-24 Esther is the book of divine reversals. Haman, compelled by hatred and revenge wanted to kill Mordecai and all of his people. Instead, Haman was killed on the very pole he constructed to kill Mordecai on. Instead of Mordecai’s people being killed, Haman’s people and his 10 sons were killed. The honor that Haman craved went to Mordecai who never sought to be exalted. The Jews who were destined to be killed, got to kill their enemies. People stood up for the Jews and they were honored instead of hated. Mordecai was allowed to use the king’s ring to make a law to counter Haman’s law and the mourning of the people turned to gladness and celebration. A new holiday was established called Purim which will be celebrated next year on February 25-26. Corinthians gives us a list of the members of Christ’s body. The most important is the apostle. In the Greek, that word means a delegate, one sent by God, with miraculous powers. Next in importance to the body is the prophet. In the Greek that word means a foreteller, an inspired speaker or poet. I would think that that would include people who write songs that inspire us and pour life into us. The next is a teacher which means an instructor, doctor, or master. Then a person who moves in miracles and power. Next are people with the gift of healing and cures. I would think that they would include miraculous healing and inventors of medicines that heal people. Next are people who have the gift of helps or bring relief to people. That could include nurses, care-takers, spiritual mothers and fathers, etc. Next are the leaders who direct the government in the state and the church. Next are the ones who speak in tongues. Last of all, Paul tells us how to operate these gifts and it is through love. All of the gifts of God are useless and can be harmful if they don’t come through the vessel of love. There are three things that are eternal: faith, hope, and love but love is the greatest. Lord, thank you for this reminder. Love is the most important thing. Help us to walk in love today. Thank you for divine reversals.