This Is the Old Testament is part of a twelve-week thematic overview of the entire Bible. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book or two of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. This week, we’ll finish the Historical Books and move into the genre of Wisdom Literature.
What Is Esther? The book of Esther tells the story of how Esther, a Jewish girl, became queen of Persia. After her cousin Mordecai uncovered a plot to annihilate the Jewish people, he encouraged Esther to use her position to save her people from destruction.
How Esther Fits Into the Story: Without ever mentioning Him by name, the book of Esther speaks of the Lord’s presence and sovereignty in the lives of His people. God’s promise to give the Jewish people an eternal ruler remained, even in the face of threatened annihilation. Before man sought to devise their destruction, God’s invisible hand was always at work in the story of Esther and her people, securing their deliverance.
Reflection Questions:
1. How does God’s unnamed provision in Esther 4:1–14 change your understanding of how He works in your own life?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?
Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.
Miri Am loved what you said.
Maura always enjoy learning from you.
Kelly I also need to learn to trust and have faith in God.
Sarah Joy I too need to walk with the Lord regardless of my fear or uncertainty. I hope you don’t mind if I pass this on.
Kenya K. so true so true.
Carleigh Bright you are so right about Mordecai. I had never thought of it that way. To continue along that train of thought had it not been for Mordecai’s belief and his raising Esther that way she would not have had the faith she had.
Angie as always you add to my knowledge of the Bible.
Kathy love what you said may I share some of it.
Donna Wolcott I too miss their comments.
Anna thank you for explaining it to me, now I understand it better.
Jennifer Anapol fully agree with what you said.
Krystle Scott I went back and read your comment from yesterday, wow love the info and never knew this. Thanks for passing it on.
Sarah Rose I know where you are coming from in a way. I too had restart part of my life last year after my niece and roommate died suddenly in a car accident in another state. I’ll tell you what got me through was my faith and my Christian community. Hang in there I’ll be praying for you.
B.H. your comment from yesterday was insightful and I would love to pass some of it on.
Even when you can’t see God working, he is working behind the scenes.❤️
We are studying the book of Esther at my church. I love seeing how God is working behind the scenes in this story. It reminds me that God is working behind the scenes in our world too. Even when we can’t see it, God is still working!
@dorothy, I think that question means… “In Esther we clearly see God’s hand and provision in the story, even though He is not always explicitly referenced. In your own life, have you had needs met or generosity bestowed upon you that you now realize was the hand of God?”
Thinking of you both, Churchmouse and Tina. Praying that you are well and hoping to “hear” from you soon. ❤️
The first question: 1. How does God’s unnamed provision in Esther 4:1–14 change your understanding of how He works in your own life? has thrown me for a loop. I’m not quite understanding what it is asking. Maybe one you, my sisters could reword it so I could understand it please.
Esther has always been one of my favorite books. I think because it shows how a shy woman with faith and courage can approach an insurmountable problem and conquer it. How she let God show her the path to take. It also shows how she was scared but over came that fear with God at her side. When I read Esther I praise God for all women like that.
Sisters have great and blessed day and please continue to pray for my sister, Carol, and nephew, Jake.
Through this reading this morning God has really reminded me that he has placed me where I am at for a reason and that he is sovereign over everything in my life!
How I love the story of Ester!!! A lesson for us all to seek God’s will, and act upon His lead.
I pray that I will always allow God’s gentle nudges to help me to do my part in showing people my Lord and Savior, and how their lives can be changed and fully enriched by His presence in their hearts.
Amen Sharon !