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Esther-3

A Time for Courage: A Devotional Study on Esther Chapter 3​

Introduction​

Esther 3 opens with a vastly different atmosphere from the rest of the story so far. The tone is ominous and tense. Having survived a plot to annihilate the Jewish people, Esther now faces another grave threat. Let's explore this chapter as we turn to Esther's incredible display of courage in the face of danger.

Section 1: The Rise of Haman (Esther 3:1-11)​

Devotional Thought: Haman's rank and position in the kingdom are significantly higher than Esther's. Due to Mordecai's refusal to bow before Haman, the king's most trusted advisor swears to destroy the Jews and every cost him nothing. Fear seized Esther's heart. Yet, Esther would need courage to thwart Haman's evil plans.

Reflection Questions:

  • What fears have we faced in our lives, possibly even today?
  • How can we gather our courage as Esther did to face our fears?

Section 2: Haman's Plot (Esther 3:12-15)​

Devotional Thought: Haman's request to kill and destroy the Jewish people is authorized and scheduled for thirteen months in the future. The evilness of this plan highlights the danger of leaving God's people to face oppression alone. Esther, once again, will need courage to intervene.

Reflection Questions:

  • What hope can we cling to when we see oppression and darkness in our world?
  • How can we stand with our God-fearing brothers and sisters to fight the good fight?

Section 3: Esther's Reflection (Esther 4:1-4)​

Devotional Thought: Upon learning the horrifying details of the plot against her people, Esther enters a two-day fast and begins to pray. In this moment, she bravely radically takes responsibility for her people's welfare. Esther welcomes her privileged position as queen to the benefit of God's people. She courageously appeals to Mordecai, imploring him to petition all Jews to fast and pray with her.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we respond when faced with imminent danger to our community?
  • How can we cultivate Esther's sense of responsibility and courage?

Section 4: Mordecai's Response (Esther 4:5-8)​

Devotional Thought: Mordecai calls Esther's people to join her noble undertaking. With fasting and prayer, they will plead with God for His mercy and deliverance. Esther's united front will better position them to save their lives through their Creator.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can faith communities band together in moments of danger and announce the hope of God's sovereignty?
  • How can we concur fear with faith, as Mordecai demonstrated?

Section 5: Esther's Intervention (Esther 5:1-8)​

Devotional Thought: Esther invites the king and Haman for dinner. The aged Jewish king eagerly welcomes her. That night, Esther inquired as to why the king and Haman would desire to annihilate her people, a calculated move to reveal Haman's true identity.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we position opposing forces against their true selves?
  • How can we apply Esther's tactic to reveal the true identities of our foes?

Conclusion:​

Through Esther's story, we learn of extraordinary courage in the face of imminent danger. Esther's story challenges us to nurture similar courage - from a small prayer meeting that leads to united action, to facing oppression with a faith-filled heart. Esther's faith and courage challenge us in our daily lives, in the face of our proud opponents, to confidently state, "If I perish, I perish." But with God's sustaining grace, we will stand against forces that aim to subjugate and annihilate His children.