CHAPTER SUMMARIES & DEVOTIONS: Esther

Read, study, and apply each chapter in Esther as you read through the Scriptures. 

Esther 1: Pride Leads to Downfall

     King Ahasuerus holds a lavish banquet in Persia, displaying his wealth and power. He orders Queen Vashti to appear before the guests to show off her beauty, but she refuses. Enraged, the king deposes her, setting the stage for a search for a new queen. Meanwhile, Esther, a young Jewish woman living in exile with her cousin Mordecai, is among those taken to the palace for consideration. Despite her humble background, Esther finds favor with Hegai, the king’s eunuch, who oversees the women.

     Pride and extravagance often lead to downfall. King Ahasuerus’ self-importance contrasts sharply with Vashti’s quiet courage to stand firm in her convictions and Esther's humble and obedient spirit. God often elevates the humble and resists the proud. As we see in Esther’s story, God’s hand is always at work, even when circumstances seem chaotic or unjust. Like Esther, we must remain faithful in our quiet duties, trusting that God will use us in His perfect timing and for His divine purposes.

Esther 2: Faithfulness Amidst Challenges

     The search for a new queen continues, and Esther is among those presented to King Ahasuerus. She conceals her Jewish identity on Mordecai’s advice. She impresses the king and is chosen as the new queen, replacing Vashti. Despite her new position, Esther remains obedient to Mordecai, who continues to advise her. Meanwhile, Mordecai uncovers a plot to assassinate the king and informs Esther, who reveals it to the king, saving his life. The event is recorded in the royal chronicles.

     God’s providence is evident in Esther’s rise to royalty. Even when we cannot see His hand, He orchestrates events to fulfill His purposes. Esther’s obedience and Mordecai’s vigilance demonstrate that God’s people must remain faithful and discerning, even in foreign surroundings and times of challenge. Our actions, though seemingly small, can have significant consequences. We must be willing to step forward when God calls us to action. Like Esther, we must trust in God’s timing, knowing that He prepares us for His divine appointments.

Esther 3: The Outcome of Hateful Comspiracy

     Haman, an influential official in King Ahasuerus’ court, is promoted and demands that everyone bow down to him. Mordecai, a Jew, refuses to do so, angering Haman. Discovering that Mordecai is Jewish, Haman plots to annihilate all the Jews in the Persian Empire. He persuades King Ahasuerus to issue a decree for their destruction, setting a date for the massacre. Haman pays a large sum into the royal treasury to facilitate the genocide, demonstrating his deep-seated hatred for the Jewish people.

     Hatred and prejudice can lead to unimaginable evil. Haman’s pride and intolerance blind him to the value of human life, leading him to plot genocide. Mordecai’s courage to stand for his beliefs reminds us to resist injustice, even when facing severe consequences. The forces of evil are always at work, but God’s people must remain vigilant. We must be willing to speak out against injustice and hatred, trusting that God will protect and deliver those who stand for truth and righteousness. The story of Esther also reminds us that God’s plans will prevail over any evil scheme.

Esther 4: Courage and Determination

     When Mordecai learns of Haman’s decree, he mourns and publicly laments the impending destruction of the Jews. Esther hears of Mordecai’s distress and sends a messenger to inquire about the cause. Mordecai informs Esther of the decree and urges her to appeal to the king on behalf of her people. Esther hesitates, fearing the law that forbids approaching the king without being summoned. Mordecai challenges her, warning that she will not escape the destruction and that God may raise up another deliverer if she fails to act. Esther resolves to approach the king, risking her life, and calls for a fast among the Jews to seek God’s help.

     Courage is often born from necessity and divine prompting. Mordecai’s words challenge Esther to consider her responsibility and potential influence. When faced with daunting circumstances, we must recognize our purpose in God’s plan. Esther’s decision to risk her life reflects a deep faith and a willingness to obey God’s call. Prayer and fasting are powerful tools in seeking God’s guidance and strength. Like Esther, we must be prepared to act with courage and determination, trusting that God will work through us to accomplish His purposes.

Esther 5: The Value of Strategic Planning

     Esther bravely approaches King Ahasuerus, who extends his scepter, sparing her life. She invites the king and Haman to a banquet she has prepared. During the banquet, the king asks Esther what she desires, but she only requests that they both attend another banquet the following day. Haman, pleased with his special invitation, boasts about his importance. However, he is angered by Mordecai’s continued refusal to bow. On the advice of his wife and friends, Haman orders the construction of a gallows to hang Mordecai.

     God often uses strategic patience and boldness to turn the tide of events. Esther’s wise actions demonstrate that timing and careful planning can be as important as courage. Haman’s pride leads him to prepare his own downfall. We can learn from Esther and from Haman: seek God’s wisdom and dependance in prayer; maintain a humble spirit and remain obedient; and that pride can blind us to the consequences of our actions. Like Esther, we must act with both wisdom and boldness, trusting that God will guide our steps and use our efforts to accomplish His will.

Esther 6: When God's Providence Turns the Tables

     Unable to sleep, King Ahasuerus orders the royal chronicles to be read to him. He discovers that Mordecai had saved his life by revealing the assassination plot. The king learns that Mordecai has not been rewarded for his loyalty. Coincidentally, Haman arrives to request permission to hang Mordecai. The king asks Haman what should be done for someone the king wishes to honor. Assuming he is the one to be honored, Haman suggests an elaborate parade. The king orders Haman to carry out the honor for Mordecai, humiliating him publicly.

     God’s timing is always perfect. The king’s sleeplessness and the discovery of Mordecai’s good deed reveal God’s hand at work. Haman’s pride leads to his own humiliation. When we trust in God, He can turn the tables on our enemies. Humility and faithfulness are rewarded, while pride and malice lead to downfall. God is sovereign and will bring justice in His time. As we see in Mordecai's life, even small acts of faithfulness will be greatly rewarded. "And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart" (Galatians 6:9).

Esther 7: Retribution for Wrongdoing

     Esther and Haman attend the second banquet with King Ahasuerus. The king again asks Esther what she desires. This time, Esther reveals her Jewish identity and exposes Haman’s plot to annihilate her people. Enraged, the king leaves the banquet in fury. Upon returning, he finds Haman begging Esther for his life, mistaking his intentions. The king orders Haman to be hanged on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai, bringing justice to Haman’s evil scheme.

     Evil plans ultimately lead to the perpetrator’s destruction. Esther’s courageous revelation and the king’s righteous anger bring about justice. God’s intervention is clear as Haman’s plot is turned against him. The story reminds us that evil cannot prevail against God’s purposes. By trusting God and standing for truth, we can witness His power to expose and defeat wickedness. Justice may be delayed, but it will ultimately be served.

Esther 8: Triumphal Deliverance

     King Ahasuerus gives Esther Haman’s estate, and Esther informs the king of her relationship to Mordecai, who is then promoted to a high position. The king allows Esther and Mordecai to issue a new decree to counteract Haman’s order. Because the original decree cannot be revoked, the Jews are given the right to defend themselves against any who attack them. The Jews rejoice, and many people of other nationalities become Jews, fearing them. The chapter highlights the triumph of good over evil and the reversal of fortune for the Jewish people.

     God’s deliverance brings about complete reversal. The Jews’ mourning turns to joy, and their vulnerability transforms into strength. This chapter demonstrates God’s power to protect and exalt His people. When injustice seems overwhelming, we must remember that God can turn any situation around for His glory. By remaining faithful and trusting in His promises, we can experience His triumph in our lives. The conversion of others to Judaism highlights the impact of witnessing God's deliverance.

Esther 9: Celebrating God's Goodness

     On the day set for their destruction, the Jews defend themselves and defeat their enemies throughout the Persian provinces. They kill many who had plotted to harm them, including Haman’s ten sons. In Shushan, the Jews are granted an extra day to complete their vengeance. Mordecai establishes the festival of Purim to commemorate the Jews’ deliverance from Haman’s plot. The Jews celebrate with feasting, joy, and the exchange of gifts, ensuring the story of their victory is never forgotten.

     God’s protection leads to victory over evil. The Jews’ ability to defend themselves and defeat their enemies underscores God’s faithfulness. With the establishment of Purim as an annual celebration, it ensures that future generations remember God’s deliverance. Remembering God’s past faithfulness strengthens our faith in His continued protection. Celebrating His goodness fosters gratitude and joy. Like the Jews, we must commemorate God’s victories in our lives, sharing our stories of deliverance to inspire others.

Esther 10: Exaltation and Influence

     King Ahasuerus imposes tribute on the land and the islands. Mordecai the Jew is second in rank to King Ahasuerus, greatly esteemed among the Jews and held in high regard by his people. He seeks the good of his people and speaks peace to them. Mordecai’s integrity and influence bring stability and prosperity to the Jewish community. The chapter concludes with the affirmation of Mordecai’s legacy as a leader who served his people with dedication and wisdom.

     God often exalts those who serve Him faithfully. Mordecai’s rise to prominence demonstrates that God honors those who seek to do right. Influence is a powerful tool, therefore, when used to promote righteousness, justice, and peace. Like Mordecai, we must use our positions of influence to advocate for right in the government and lives of those who lead as well as the oppressed and marginalized. By seeking all that is good and holy, we will advance God’s kingdom on earth. The story of Esther and Mordecai is a testament to the impact that faithful individuals can have on the course of history.