There is a famous river on the outskirts of the ancient city of Rome called the Rubicon. It is well-known for one simple reason: it was where Julius Caesar refused to disband his army before facing the Senate. His decision to cross the river, thus provoking a civil war, later shaped the course of Western Civilization. In Ezra 1:5-11, King Cyrus gives the Jews a chance to leave Babylon and return to their homeland. This was their chance to brave the journey and reinstate worship to the true and living God—this was their Rubicon. But would they cross it? Find out today on Wisdom for the Heart.
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.