Welcome to Empowered Bible Studies

Bible study is essential to our Christian walk. As we study God's Word, our personal relationship with God grows deeper and deeper. It empowers us to live for the Lord in every aspect of our lives. This is what has inspired me to do an online Bible study.

Many years ago my husband introduced me to a commentary on the book of Colossians and I was so blessed as the Scripture came to life before my very eyes. Since that day we have developed an extensive library and enjoy studying God's Word.

I have prepared some Bible studies that I would like to share with you. My prayer is that they will bless you as much as they have blessed me in preparing them. I pray your life is touched and that it would inspire you to live every moment of every day for Christ.

Please click on the link to the left under 'Empowered Bible Studies' for the Bible Study you would like to view.

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Thursday, August 3, 2017

Trusting God through the tough times

Esther 9:20-32 introduces us to the Feast of Purim. ~ The great deliverance of the Jews was instituted as a permanent festival. The Festival of Purim is a celebration and reminder of how God delivered the Jews from annihilation.

Mordecai sent a letter to encourage faithfulness in the celebration of Purim and he encouraged Esther to write a letter also, putting her full authority as queen behind the festival. The Jews begin their celebration with a fast commemorating the date on which Haman’s evil decree was issued. They go to the synagogue and hear the Book of Esther publicly read; and whenever the name of Haman is mentioned, they cry out, “May he be accursed!” or “May his name perish!” Children bring a special Purim rattle called a “gregar” and use it to make a noise every time they hear Haman’s name read. Then the celebrants go home to a festive holiday meal with gifts and special foods, and the celebrating continues on the next day. They also send gifts to the poor and needy so that everybody can rejoice together.
Also note that in Esther 9:31-32 the institution of Purim as a permanent festival and the guidelines that were to control it were recorded in the official records. The most important items were written in the chronicles, like when Mordecai saved the King's life, all the previous decrees that were written, and the letters from Mordecai and Esther about Purim. Writing them in the book of chronicles showed both importance and permanence.
In the book of Esther, we clearly see God at work in the lives of individuals and in the affairs of a nation. Even when it looks as if the world is in the hands of evil people, God is still in control, protecting those who are his.

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