Today you should read: Esther 4:1-17
The problem in our story has been introduced. Haman has convinced the king to issue a decree that all the Jewish people be executed because of Mordecai’s refusal to bow down to him. Haman was a prideful man of power while Mordecai was a noble man. The king issues the decree and the Jewish people mourn.
In our reading today, the scene opens with Mordecai and his people tearing their clothes and mourning because of the decree that will eliminate them as a people. Mordecai knows Queen Esther, a Jew, is their only hope of survival, so he asks her to beg the king for mercy.
Mordecai’s request would be an easy one to fulfill, but Esther reveals that anyone who appears before the king in his inner court without invitation will be put to death unless he holds out his gold scepter. There is much risk involved in going before the king, and Esther would be reasonably scared. Mordecai replies in a peculiar way:
“…Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?” – Esther 4:14b
Esther is the only book in the Bible that does not mention God. There is no mention of Jesus, God, Holy Spirit, angels, Satan, cross or resurrection. But in this one statement, Mordecai gives us a clue into how God, though not mentioned, is at work. This book is a fantastic example of how God works providentially. God often works behind the scenes in order to accomplish his plans.
God orchestrated this entire story in order to reveal his goodness, kindness, and protection of his people. From the queen being removed in chapter one, to Esther being installed as queen, to Haman’s plot, to Mordecai’s mourning, to Esther’s bravery and boldness, God was at work even though he was not mentioned.
We serve an active God, who loves us and orchestrates our lives to bring himself glory and to grow us into the image of Christ. Often times, we search for God to work miraculously in our lives. God certainly works miracles! However, it is my fear that we might often neglect to think about how God is working providentially in our searching and longing for God to work miracles in our lives.
Do you notice the subtle ways in which God is providentially at work in your life? Take some time today to think about how God is working in your life for his glory and for your good.
By: Lucas Taylor — West Campus Pastoral Ministry Apprentice
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