“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.” Those are the paradoxical words which our Savior spoke 2,000 years ago in His beatitudes. But long before Jesus spoke these words to a captivated audience, He inspired an illustration of them through the life of King David. The story we find in 2 Samuel 8-9 is a gripping testament to the essential Gospel truth that heaven is open to the helpless. Salvation is for cripples only.
Scandals abound in a drama cast in the ancient Persian Empire. In the midst of political intrigue and betrayal, a beautiful orphan girl suddenly becomes the leading character, as God’s providence rescues His people from certain death. At first glance, Esther is the heroine and Mordecai the master manipulator. Take a closer look, however, and you’ll discover that behind the scenes, God is pulling the strings as His sovereign providence unfolds.