As I make my way through the book of Esther, I’m struck by the fact that sometimes, deliverance comes in stages.

Haman ordered the murder of the Jewish population of Persia.

First, Haman was personally humiliated.

Then, Haman himself was executed.

But the murderous edict was still in effect.

Finally, the Lord provided salvation through an edict allowing his people to defend themselves.

Victory came, but not all at once.

This is an encouragement to people who want everything fixed right now. (Like me.)