The Story of Esther: Courage and Providence in Action

Vanessa is an Australian LDS lifestyle blogger. Landed in Salt Lake City, Utah, from the sun kissed beaches of Bondi, Australia, Vanessa is a wife and mother of three children.

The story of Esther is one of the most remarkable narratives in the Bible, filled with themes of courage, faith, and God’s providence. Found in the Book of Esther in the Old Testament, it recounts the experiences of a young Jewish woman who rose to become queen of Persia and, through her bravery, saved her people from destruction.

Although God is not explicitly mentioned in the book, His hand is evident in every twist and turn of the story. Esther’s life teaches timeless lessons about standing up for righteousness, trusting God’s unseen plans, and embracing our divinely appointed roles.

Historical and Cultural Background

The events in the Book of Esther occur during the reign of King Ahasuerus (commonly identified as Xerxes I), who ruled over the Persian Empire from 486 to 465 BCE. At this time, the Jewish people were living in exile, scattered throughout the empire after the Babylonian captivity. They were a minority group, often facing prejudice and vulnerability.

The Persian Empire was vast and diverse, encompassing many different cultures, languages, and religions. The king’s court was a hub of opulence and political intrigue, and decisions made there had far-reaching consequences. This backdrop sets the stage for Esther’s rise and her pivotal role in saving her people.

Esther Becomes Queen

The story begins with a royal scandal. King Ahasuerus, during a lavish banquet, calls for his queen, Vashti, to appear before his guests to display her beauty. When Vashti refuses, the king is enraged and deposes her as queen. This sets off a search for her replacement, with young women from across the empire brought to the palace for consideration.

Among them is Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai. Esther is described as beautiful, but her appeal goes beyond outward appearances. She wins the favor of everyone she meets, including Hegai, the eunuch in charge of the harem, and eventually the king himself. Ahasuerus crowns her as queen, though he remains unaware of her Jewish heritage, as Mordecai advises her to keep it secret.

Haman’s Plot Against the Jews

The narrative takes a dark turn with the introduction of Haman, a high-ranking official in the king’s court. Haman is a proud and ambitious man who becomes enraged when Mordecai, Esther’s cousin, refuses to bow to him. Mordecai’s refusal stems from his Jewish faith, which prohibits idolatry or excessive reverence for man.

Consumed by anger, Haman devises a plot to annihilate all the Jews in the Persian Empire. He convinces King Ahasuerus to issue a decree authorizing their destruction, framing it as a necessary action against a disloyal people. The date is set by casting lots, or “Purim,” and the decree spreads across the empire, causing fear and despair among the Jewish community.

Mordecai’s Plea and Esther’s Decision

Mordecai, learning of the decree, mourns publicly in sackcloth and ashes, a traditional expression of grief. He sends word to Esther, urging her to intervene with the king. However, approaching the king uninvited is forbidden and punishable by death unless the king extends his scepter. Esther initially hesitates, fearing for her life.

Mordecai’s response is both poignant and motivational: “For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father’s house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14, KJV).

These words inspire Esther to act. She asks Mordecai and the Jewish people to fast for three days, and she commits to approaching the king, saying, “If I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16, KJV).

Esther’s Bold Approach to the King

After the three-day fast, Esther dresses in her royal robes and goes to the king’s court. Risking her life, she approaches King Ahasuerus, who extends his scepter to her, granting her an audience. The king, clearly favoring Esther, asks her what she desires, promising to grant even up to half his kingdom.

Instead of making her request outright, Esther invites the king and Haman to a banquet she has prepared. During the banquet, the king again asks her what she desires, but she defers, inviting them to a second banquet. Esther’s patience and strategic planning create suspense and build the narrative.

Haman’s Downfall

Haman’s arrogance and hatred continue to grow. He is elated by the king’s favor but enraged by Mordecai’s refusal to bow. Haman’s wife and friends suggest building a gallows specifically to hang Mordecai, and he eagerly sets this plan in motion.

That night, however, the king experiences insomnia and has the royal chronicles read to him. He learns of a past incident where Mordecai uncovered a plot against the king but was never rewarded. The next morning, when Haman comes to request Mordecai’s execution, the king instead orders Haman to honor Mordecai by leading him through the city on the king’s horse, wearing royal robes. Haman’s humiliation is complete, but his troubles are just beginning.

Esther’s Revelation and the Jews’ Deliverance

At the second banquet, Esther reveals her true identity as a Jew and exposes Haman’s plot to destroy her people. She pleads with the king to save them, declaring, “We are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish” (Esther 7:4, KJV). The king, furious, orders Haman to be executed on the very gallows Haman had prepared for Mordecai.

Though Haman is dead, the decree to annihilate the Jews cannot be revoked under Persian law. However, King Ahasuerus issues a new decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves. On the appointed day, the Jews triumph over their enemies, and the fear of them spreads throughout the empire.

The Feast of Purim

To commemorate their deliverance, Mordecai and Esther establish the feast of Purim, named after the lots (Purim) that Haman cast to determine the date of the Jews’ destruction. This joyous festival celebrates God’s providence, the courage of Esther, and the resilience of the Jewish people.

Scripture Study Questions for the Book of Esther

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These questions are designed to help you dive deeper into the story of Esther, reflect on its themes, and apply its lessons to your life. They are grouped by chapter for a comprehensive study.

Esther 1: Vashti’s Refusal and the Search for a New Queen

Why do you think Vashti refused the king’s command to appear at his banquet?
What does this chapter reveal about the culture and politics of King Ahasuerus’s court?
How does the decision to depose Vashti set the stage for Esther’s rise to power?
How might God use unexpected or even unjust events to fulfill His purposes?

Esther 2: Esther Becomes Queen

What qualities about Esther helped her gain favor with Hegai and the king?
Why did Mordecai instruct Esther to keep her Jewish identity a secret?
How does Esther’s willingness to follow Mordecai’s counsel reflect her faith and humility?
What opportunities has God placed before you where obedience and faithfulness could prepare you for future responsibilities?

Esther 3: Haman’s Plot Against the Jews

Why was Mordecai unwilling to bow to Haman? How does this reflect his faith in God?
How did Haman’s pride and anger lead to his extreme reaction against the Jews?
What can we learn from this chapter about the dangers of unchecked pride and hatred?
Have you ever faced a situation where standing up for your beliefs put you at risk? How did you respond?

Esther 4: Mordecai’s Plea and Esther’s Decision

How did Mordecai’s mourning reflect the gravity of the situation?
Why do you think Esther hesitated at first to approach the king?
What do Mordecai’s words, “Who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14), mean to you personally?
What decisions in your life require courage and trust in God’s plan?

Lessons from Esther: Trusting God’s Plan

1. God’s Providence Is Always at Work

One of the remarkable aspects of Esther’s story is that God’s name is never mentioned in the entire book. Yet, His hand is evident in every event, from Esther’s rise to queen to the timing of her interventions. This reminds us that God often works behind the scenes in ways we may not immediately recognize.

Reflection: How have you seen God’s hand in your life, even when it wasn’t immediately obvious?
Action: Write down a recent situation where events seemed to align unexpectedly. Reflect on how God might have been guiding you.

2. Courage to Stand for What Is Right

Esther faced a life-or-death decision: remain silent and risk her people’s destruction or speak up and risk her own life. Her decision to act boldly teaches us that courage, rooted in faith, can lead to profound impact.

Reflection: What challenges in your life require courage and faith?
Action: Identify one area where you feel called to take a bold step. Pray for strength to act.

3. God Places Us Where We’re Needed

Mordecai’s words to Esther, “Who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14), remind us that our roles and circumstances are part of God’s divine plan. Whether it’s in your marriage, family, or career, you are placed where you are for a purpose.

Reflection: How can you use your current position or relationships to serve God’s plan?
Action: List three ways you can positively influence your family, marriage, or community.

Themes and Lessons from Esther’s Story

God’s Providence: Though God’s name is not mentioned in the Book of Esther, His hand is evident in every event. This reminds us that God is always at work, even when we don’t see Him explicitly.
Courage in the Face of Fear: Esther’s willingness to risk her life for her people demonstrates the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it’s difficult or dangerous.
Faith and Fasting: Esther’s reliance on prayer and fasting highlights the importance of seeking God’s guidance in critical moments.
Using Influence for Good: Esther’s position as queen was not coincidental. Her story teaches us to use our opportunities and resources to serve God and others.
God’s Justice: Haman’s downfall serves as a reminder that God’s justice will ultimately prevail, even when evil seems to prosper.

Reflection Questions on Themes

Courage and Faith: How does Esther’s bravery inspire you to take risks for the greater good?
God’s Providence: Where in your life have you seen God’s hand working behind the scenes?
Standing for What Is Right: What challenges do you face in standing up for your faith, and how can you overcome them?
Trusting God’s Timing: How can you better trust God’s timing in your decisions and actions?

Applying Esther’s Lessons in Modern Life

Faith and Courage in Marriage

Esther’s story of courage can inspire us in our marriages. Supporting a spouse, navigating challenges, or raising a family often requires stepping out of our comfort zones. Trusting God’s plan and acting in faith can strengthen our relationships and bring peace during trials.

Scriptural Inspiration: Proverbs 31:25 says, “Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.” Like Esther, we can embrace strength and honor in our roles.

Creating a Christ-Centered Home

Just as Esther’s actions preserved her people, our daily choices influence the spiritual health of our homes. Prioritizing prayer, scripture study, and service creates a refuge where God’s presence is felt.

Reflection Question: What steps can you take to make your home more Christ-centered?

Recognizing Your Unique Role

Esther teaches us that everyone has a role in God’s plan. Whether you’re leading, supporting, or serving, your contributions matter. Reflecting on your talents and opportunities can help you discover your purpose.

Prayer Focus: Ask God to show you how you can serve in your current circumstances.

Reflective Questions for Personal Growth

How can Esther’s courage inspire you to act boldly in your own life?
Are there areas in your life where you feel God is working behind the scenes?
What practical steps can you take to trust God more fully in your decisions?

A Worksheet for Personal Reflection

Title: Living Courageously Like Esther

Scripture Study: Read Esther 4:13-16. Reflect on how Esther’s faith and courage apply to your life.
Personal Goals:
- Write down one area where you feel called to act boldly.
- List three ways you can trust God more in that situation.
Creative Exercise: Imagine you are in Esther’s position. Write a short journal entry describing your thoughts and prayers before approaching the king.

Final Thoughts: Esther’s Legacy

The story of Esther reminds us that God’s plan is always unfolding, even when we don’t see it. Her courage, faith, and willingness to trust in divine timing inspire us to live boldly and faithfully.

Whether in marriage, family, or personal challenges, we can look to Esther’s example to find strength and guidance.

Remember: You are where you are “for such a time as this.” Trust God’s plan, embrace courage, and let His providence guide your path.

What lessons from Esther’s story resonate with you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Want More? Read Our Series Of Women In The Old Testament

May God bless you,

Vanessa Rooney – LDS Mum