Queen Esther: Courageous Deliverance and Divine Providence

The life of Esther is a powerful demonstration of how God uses individuals with moral courage and consecrated purpose to achieve mighty deliverances for His people3BC 1140.1+1.

The Rise of a Humble Orphan

Esther, also known as Hadassah, was a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai in Shushan the palace Esther 2:725LtMs, Ms 39, 1910, par. 23. She was a woman of refined dignity who sought no worldly advantage, requiring nothing for her appearance before the king except what was appointed to her Esther 2:15SA 175.2+1. Because she feared the Most High, she obtained grace and favor in the sight of all who looked upon her, and King Ahasuerus eventually set the royal crown upon her head Esther 2:1725LtMs, Ms 39, 1910, par. 23+1. Throughout this process, she remained faithful to the counsel of Mordecai, demonstrating that true strength lies in a humble and obedient spirit Esther 2:2025LtMs, Ms 39, 1910, par. 23.

The Great Crisis

A dark plot was hatched by Haman the Agagite, who cherished a bitter hatred toward Mordecai because the godly man refused to show him the reverence belonging only to God25LtMs, Ms 39, 1910, par. 23+1. Haman secured a decree from the king to destroy all Jews throughout the realm, leading to a time of great mourning, fasting, and wailing Esther 4:325LtMs, Ms 39, 1910, par. 23+1. This crisis was not merely a political conflict but a manifestation of the dragon's wrath against those who keep the commandments of God Revelation 12:17PK 602.2. In this extremity, Mordecai challenged Esther to act, suggesting that she had been brought to her royal position specifically for such a time as this Esther 4:14PK 601.1+1.

Victory Through Faith and Prayer

Esther realized that human efforts alone would be unavailing without divine intervention, so she took time for deep communion with GodSPCCSR 71.3+1. She requested that all the Jews in Shushan fast and pray with her for three days before she risked her life to approach the king Esther 4:16SPCCSR 71.3+1. With holy boldness and the famous resolve, "if I perish, I perish," she ventured into the king's presence as an intercessor Esther 4:16SPCCSR 71.3+1. God moved upon the heart of the king to extend the scepter of mercy, just as Christ is ready to extend His grace to every trembling sinner who reaches out in faithLS 22.2+2.

Deliverance and Vindication

Through Esther’s prompt action and the providence of God, the plots of the enemy were defeatedPK 601.1+1. The king issued a counter-decree allowing the Jews to stand for their lives, and angels of strength were commissioned to protect them during the conflict Esther 9:2, 16PK 602.2+1. The very day appointed for their destruction became a day of joy, gladness, and victory Esther 8:17SS 311.2+1.

Lessons for Today

• Providence: God reigns among the children of men and can turn the heart of any ruler according to His will3BC 1139.11+2.

• Moral Courage: It takes firmness, perseverance, and much prayer to stand for the right when it is unpopularEv 240.2+1.

• Women’s Mission: Consecrated women today can act an important part in the cause of God, even in humble positions, by following Esther’s example of sanctification and prayer3BC 1140.1+2.

• Future Application: The decree soon to go forth against commandment-keepers will be similar to the one issued by Ahasuerus, and God will again vindicate His truth and His peopleSPCCSR 72.3+2.

Wait on the LORD, be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart Psalms 27:147T 243.4. Every child of God should live with the realization that they may be called to witness for the King of kings in the world's highest placesAH 484.2+2.