Read ESTHER 9:16–19

The book of Ecclesiastes declares that for everything there is a season: “a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance” (3:4). In the city of Susa and throughout the Persian kingdom, the Jewish people had reason to celebrate. They had been vindicated; the enemy had been vanquished.

Verses 16 through 18 summarize what took place on these two days of the month of Adar. When thousands of people attempted to attack the Jews in the provinces, they were killed— some 75,000 (v. 16). The Jews in Susa took two days to complete their triumph over their enemies. Notice that their deliverance required their participation—God had made a way of salvation, but they still had to take up arms to seize the victory.

At last, they had been given “relief from their enemies” (v. 16). Considering all the prior months filled with terror, weeping, and grief, this victory in battle brought long-anticipated calm and then an overwhelming spirit of joy.

This was a time to celebrate. Evil had been thwarted. God was in control. Two different days were named times for “joy and feasting.” In both cases, they observed the day by giving presents to one another. They had lived through a significant period of hardship, but they had also witnessed God’s provision in a miraculous way. He had been generous to them, so they now would be generous with one another (v. 19).

God created His people for times of work, times of rest, and times of celebration. In Exodus 10:9, Moses instructed the Israelites to “celebrate a festival to the Lord.” In Exodus 12:17, they celebrated the Festival of Unleavened Bread. God’s provision for His people deserves to be honored and remembered. It is a time for great joy.

APPLY THE WORD

God wants us to have time for work and time for rest and rejoicing. Be sure you observe a day of celebration in your regular routine. Whether a special meal or another meaningful observance, thank God for His provision and remember how He has worked in your life. We should rejoice, for we serve a good and generous God.

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