Esther: God's Call on a QueenSample

The Book of Esther is steeped in Jewish history and tradition, still revered today. It is also saturated with Biblical truth, pointing to the sovereignty, providence, and provision of God. As you read today’s Scripture, take some time to consider/answer the following questions for personal growth and understanding.

1. Haman ended up begging the queen for his life. Yet, chapters earlier he was flippantly casting the pur to decide when an entire population would die. Discuss this reversal and who has orchestrated these events.

·Discuss a time God has allowed you to experience a “taste of your own medicine”.

2. Harbona, the eunuch, was clearly aware of Haman’s plot to kill Mordecai. What made him speak up after Esther told the king?

·Discuss how our bravery in following Jesus can encourage others to speak up.

3. After reading Esther to this point, do you feel like Mordecai sought Haman’s position?

·Share about a time in your walk with the Lord when you did not seek a position, but found yourself given a position. How did you respond?

4. Esther seems to have found great favor with the king. How does this change her interactions with him?

5. Why was it important for Mordecai to be given authority and position, rather than just a reprieve from Haman’s death sentence?

6. Compare and contrast the experience of Joseph and Mordecai in serving as leaders in a foreign, pagan context.

·How did their leadership serve and protect God’s people?

·At what cost did their service come?