Daily Bible Reading - July 2020 God's Life-Giving Word of PromiseNäide

  

July 19

Introduction

The king promotes Haman to the position of prime minister and orders all officials to show Haman respect by kneeling and bowing to him. Mordecai refuses, thus infuriating Haman. When Haman learns that Mordecai is a Jew, he makes plans to have all the Jews throughout the Persian Empire killed.

Scripture Reading 

Esther 3:1-15

Today’s Key Verse: Esther 3:4b

“I am a Jew,” [Mordecai] explained, “and I cannot bow to Haman.”

Reflect

Why did Mordecai refuse to bow to Haman? What does this say to you about his faith? Reread verses 8 and 9. What did Haman say to the king to persuade him to issue a proclamation that threatened the lives of all the Jews in the Persian Empire? Are there places in the world today where people face danger and death because of their faith?

Pray

Holy and faithful God, you hold all of us in your loving care. Look down with mercy on those who this day are threatened with harm and death because of their faith. Protect them and surround them with your peace. Amen.

Prayer Concern

People who are threatened because of their religious beliefs.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Esther 4:1-17: Mordecai asks for Esther’s help.