Esther, a Jewish woman, rose to become queen of Persia and played a pivotal role in saving her people from destruction. Her actions are recorded in the book of Esther, which offers valuable lessons for believers today.
In this article, we will explore what Esther did in the Bible, highlighting key moments such as her rise to queenship, her efforts to persuade the king, and her intercession for her people. Let’s delve into the remarkable story of Esther and discover the timeless truths it holds.
Who Was Esther in the Bible?
Esther was a Jewish woman who lived during the time of the Persian Empire. She was an orphan, raised by her cousin Mordecai. When King Ahasuerus was searching for a new queen, Esther was chosen for her beauty and grace. She kept her Jewish heritage a secret, as advised by Mordecai.
Esther’s position as queen gave her a unique opportunity to influence the king and protect her people. When Haman, the king’s advisor, plotted to annihilate the Jews, Esther risked her life by approaching the king uninvited to plead for their lives. Through her bravery and wisdom, she was able to expose Haman’s evil plans and save her people from destruction.
Esther’s story is a testament to the power of faith and courage. Despite her humble beginnings, she rose to a position of influence and used it to protect and honor her people. Her actions serve as an inspiration for believers today, reminding us of the importance of standing up for what is right and trusting in God’s providence.
What Did Esther Do in the Bible?
#1. Becoming Queen
Esther’s journey to becoming queen was not by her own design, but it was part of God’s plan. Her beauty and grace caught the attention of King Ahasuerus, leading to her selection as queen. This unexpected turn of events positioned her to play a crucial role in the salvation of her people.
Esther’s life took an unexpected turn when she was chosen to be the queen of Persia. It was not her own doing, but rather a result of her beauty and grace that caught the attention of King Ahasuerus.
This divine appointment placed her in a position of influence and power, setting the stage for her to fulfill God’s purpose for her life. Little did she know that her role as queen would be instrumental in the deliverance of her people.
#2. Saving her People
When Esther learned of Haman’s plot to destroy the Jews, she courageously approached the king to intercede on their behalf. Her willingness to risk her life for her people demonstrates her selflessness and devotion to their well-being. Through her actions, she was able to thwart the evil plans of Haman and save the Jewish people from annihilation.
Esther’s bravery and selflessness were evident when she learned of Haman’s wicked plot to annihilate the Jews. Despite the risks involved, she approached King Ahasuerus without being summoned, knowing that her life was at stake.
Her love for her people and her unwavering faith in God gave her the courage to speak up and advocate for their survival. By exposing Haman’s evil intentions, Esther played a pivotal role in saving her people from destruction.
#3. Organizing a Banquet
Esther’s strategic approach to revealing Haman’s intentions involved organizing a series of banquets for the king and Haman. By carefully planning these events, she created an opportunity to expose Haman’s wicked schemes and ultimately bring about his downfall.
In order to expose Haman’s true intentions, Esther devised a strategic plan. She organized a series of banquets for the king and Haman, creating an atmosphere of relaxation and trust. This allowed her to gradually reveal Haman’s evil plans without arousing suspicion. Esther’s careful planning and execution of these banquets played a crucial role in exposing Haman’s true nature and setting the stage for his downfall.
#4. Persuading the King
Esther’s boldness in approaching the king without being summoned was a risky move, but it was necessary to plead for the lives of her people. Her persuasive skills and wisdom in presenting her case to the king played a crucial role in changing the course of events and securing the safety of the Jewish people.
Approaching the king without being summoned was a dangerous act, punishable by death. However, Esther knew that she had to take this risk in order to save her people. With great wisdom and persuasive skills, she presented her case to King Ahasuerus, highlighting the injustice and cruelty of Haman’s plan. Her eloquence and heartfelt plea touched the king’s heart, leading to a reversal of the decree and the protection of the Jewish people.
#5. Interceding for her People
Esther’s willingness to stand in the gap for her people exemplifies her deep sense of responsibility and compassion. Her fervent prayers and actions on behalf of the Jews demonstrate the power of intercession and the impact it can have in bringing about deliverance and protection.
Esther’s intercession for her people was not limited to her actions in the palace. She also sought God’s guidance and intervention through prayer. Esther understood the power of intercession and the importance of seeking God’s favor in times of crisis. Her fervent prayers, coupled with her courageous actions, demonstrated her unwavering faith and her commitment to the well-being of her people.
#6. Honoring Mordecai
After the plot of Haman was exposed, Esther ensured that Mordecai, her cousin and guardian, was honored and elevated to a position of influence and authority. This act of recognition and gratitude reflects Esther’s humility and loyalty to those who have supported and guided her.
Esther’s gratitude and loyalty extended beyond her immediate family. After the plot of Haman was exposed and the Jewish people were saved, she made sure to honor Mordecai, who had played a significant role in her life.
She ensured that he was recognized and elevated to a position of influence and authority, acknowledging his wisdom and guidance. This act of humility and gratitude demonstrated Esther’s character and her appreciation for those who had supported her throughout her journey.
#7. Instituting the Feast of Purim
Esther’s pivotal role in the deliverance of the Jewish people led to the establishment of the Feast of Purim, a celebration of their salvation. This annual observance serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and the triumph of good over evil, as recounted in the book of Esther.
As a result of Esther’s courage and faith, the Jewish people were saved from destruction. In commemoration of this miraculous deliverance, Esther instituted the Feast of Purim. This annual celebration serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and the victory of good over evil. Through the observance of Purim, the Jewish people remember and rejoice in the salvation that God brought about through Esther’s obedience and bravery.
Closing Thoughts
Esther’s story in the Bible is a testament to the power of faith, courage, and obedience. Despite her humble beginnings, she rose to a position of influence and used it to protect and honor her people. Through her bravery and wisdom, she was able to expose Haman’s evil plans and save the Jewish people from destruction.
Esther’s unwavering faith in God and her willingness to risk her life for the sake of others serve as an inspiration for believers today. Her story reminds us of the importance of standing up for what is right and trusting in God’s providence in all circumstances.