Esther 10:1-3 And the king Ahasuerus laid a tribute on the land, and on the isles of the sea.… I. THE GREATNESS OF THE MONARCH IS SEEN — 1. In the character of his government. "He laid a tribute on the land," etc. Possibly this was a judicious system of taxation, designed to displace some obnoxious method of raising money for the public treasury. 2. In the acquiescence of his subjects. II. THE GREATNESS OF MORDECAI IS SEEN — 1. In the contrast existing between his present and his former position. 2. In the fact that his severest trials became the avenue through which he ascended to fame. 3. In his reaching the pinnacle of greatness by simple fidelity to principle and unwearied diligence. 4. In his employing the influence he acquired, not for selfish ends, but to promote the welfare of his people.Lessons — 1. He who fills well the position he occupies thereby effectually recommends himself to a higher. 2. Nothing is lost by maintaining integrity. 3. Worldly prosperity is often the result of religious faith. 4. It is unwise to be disheartened in the hour of adversity (J. S. Van Dyke, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: And the king Ahasuerus laid a tribute upon the land, and upon the isles of the sea.WEB: King Ahasuerus laid a tribute on the land, and on the islands of the sea. |
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