Reading Esther

Esther is a refreshing story stuck in between two similar accounts of hurt, Nehemiah and Job. Esther tends to veer slightly away from the writing style of Nehemiah and Job, which includes multiple parallels, and other poetry, or lists. Instead, Esther reads as almost a storybook. In fact, the story of Esther is perhaps the most famous regarding a female in the Bible.

A lot of people like to focus on the Israelites thriving in a foreign kingdom aspect of the story. In truth, this is a great story to set an example for that, especially if we base our lives off of Esther or Mordecai's. Esther and Mordecai together were able to create an environment that was supportive of the Israelites and their religion. Their determination was perhaps the greatest contribution to that success.

However, while reading, I focused on a different lesson. It also tends to be a popular lesson taken from the story, which is that God always provides. That truth could not be more evident in this narrative.

The truth is, not much background is given regarding Esther's history. But she is placed within the king's household to her benefit, and to her people's. God is clearly provided for both in this story, by increasing Esther's standard of living, and at the same time, keeping his people safe. Not only does God keep his people safe through Esther, He also provides a new lifestyle where they don't have to be afraid and are almost treated like equals.

Yet, not only does God provide, but He also provides using unique methods, through people that no one would expect He would use. He uses a woman which is extremely unique considering the time and culture. He uses an Israelite in a foreign country that looked down on those people. And in a way, He also uses a foreign king to serve His purpose.

Lemonville United Church