For Such A Time As This

The Faithfulness of Esther

In the characters Esther and Mordecai we find examples of how to live the obedient life. Like Joseph and Daniel in foreign courts, so Esther and Mordecai were obedient to God’s direction and plan. Esther was a model disciple of God we should imitate. She constantly did the right thing, made the right decision, and said the right words. Esther embodied faith.1

1 Breneman, M. (1993). Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther (electronic ed., Vol. 10, p. 297). Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

English Standard Version Chapter 4

And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”

The Wisdom of Esther

Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther 4. Esther Chosen as Queen (2:15–18)

Apparently each girl had certain liberty in choosing her adornment (v. 13). It is said that some took advantage of this to deck themselves with many jewels. Esther was content to stay with Hegai’s advice. That was wise since certainly he knew what pleased the king. Exactly what she took is unknown. We do know she took with her a desire to remain loyal both to God and her people. This took great wisdom.

The Courage of Esther

God’s Sovereignty

Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther 4. Esther Chosen as Queen (2:15–18)

The sudden decision on the part of Xerxes reveals that he was overwhelmed by the sight of Esther. Readers can only imagine. Such beauty can only be made manifest through the presence of God. Such an overwhelmed king probably reflects that as he had done with Pharaoh and Cyrus, God had influenced this foreign king as well