Throughout history, people have been trying to wipe out the Jews. Here comes Haman wanting and plotting to destroy the Jews. Let’s read chapter 4 of Esther. How did Mordecai and the rest of the Jews respond once they received word of Haman’s evil decree? He tore his clothes and put on sackcloth and ashes. This is the way they mourned.
When Esther heard about Mordecai, she sent word to him. Mordecai sent a copy of the king’s edict. Mordecai asked Esther to go to the king and ask for mercy for her people. Why did Mordecai think Esther needed to take so great a risk as an uninvited visit to the king?
Mordecai’s reasonings are, first of all, Esther was a Jew also. This would affect her too. Secondly, He exhibited great trust in God’s sovereignty. God wants to use us for His purposes. God wants to use Esther for this time. Then Mordecai says that may God had appointed her as queen for this very reason.
What did Esther decide to do in regards to Mordecai’s request to intervene? What help did Esther ask for? Esther called for all Jews to fast. Fasting doesn’t make God do what we want to be done. It simply helps us to make seeking Him our highest priority. When seeking God is more important than our daily needs, we are in a position to hear what He wants to say and do. Hunger pains are a reminder for us to return to God in prayer.
Up till now, Esther had not told anyone that she was a Jew. She waited on the Lord for three days. Then she waited another day to fully implement her plan as prompted by God. Read chapter 5. What was the king’s response to Esther? He accepted her. He found favor and invited her into His court. How did she reveal her request of the king? How did Haman view himself after the banquet with the king and queen? How did seeing Mordecai affect his mood? What is the point of his bragging in verses 10-13? What solution was offered to Haman?
Let’s move on to chapter 6. What occurred during the night after Esther’s first banquet? What was king Ahasuerrus’s plan to honor Mordecai, and how did he come up with it? What must Haman do?
Read chapter 7. What is Esther’s request of the king? What does the king do to Haman?
Why do you think God chose Esther? Where has God placed you? In your home, at work, in your church, in your country? How are you going to be faithful to God with where He has placed you? Until we risk, we cannot make a difference. Are there any risks you need to take to be faithful to God with where He has placed you? Do you have a Mordecai in your life?
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for placing us right where you want us to be. I pray that we will seek you out daily. I pray that we will trust and have faith in you.
In Jesus Name
Amen
