Esther; For Such A Time As This Chp 2

Esther: For Such A Time As This / Chapter 2
Carri Lynne Pratt

 

  "The king loved Esther more than all the women, and she won grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins, so that he set the royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti."

Esther 2:17

This week's reading is Esther Chapter 2.  Although Esther reads  like a romance novel, it is true history that has important meaning and consequences for Jewish people.  We need to remember that women did not have the same rights back then as many women have today. However, Esther overcame these obstacles and went on to do important works for God. Keep this in mind and consider the important works God has in store for you as we continue on.

Each week we will also consider a Spiritual Discipline that corresponds to the passage. 

Week 2 / Chapter 2 Spiritual Discipline is Obedience. Consider the fact that Esther could have said NO! She could have run away. However, she chose to listen to her guardian, Mordecai, and submit to authority which was the King's court. She was willing to go through this and see what God was going to do. 

Self Reflection: Do you believe God is in Control?  If you truly do it will totally change your attitude and outlook on why things happen.  Who do you have in your life that you need to obey or submit to?  God is the ultimate authority to whom we must submit. What is He leading you to do?

Main Characters in Chapter 2:

King Ahasuerus; King of the Province; was looking for a new Queen

Mordecai; Esther's cousin who raised her; advised Esther

Esther (Hadassah); Jewish girl who became Queen

Hegai & Shaashgaz; The King's Eunuchs

Bigthan & Teresh; The King's Eunuchs who plotted against him

Last week we read in chapter 1 about the hasty decision King Ahasuerus made to get rid of Queen Vashti. Scripture teaches us many things and here are three common sense mistakes the king made that we can learn from: 

1) Never ever make important decisions under the influence of anything,
    including anger or fear

2) Give yourself time to consider your options and outcomes and 

3) Be careful who you listen to; hold their counsel up against God’s word.

Read Esther Chapter 2 by clicking here:      Chapter 2 Read 
Listen to Esther Chapter 2 by clicking here: Chapter 2 Listen