
Esther - Message Study Questions
Message Summary
Esther had her balconies and basements, but through them all she learned that God placed her to fulfill a destiny—and that God’s providence can be trusted. Orphaned as a child, God moved her from that basement into the loving home of her uncle. Blessed with beauty and grace, she was forced into the king’s harem to compete for the position of queen. Then God sovereignly brought her to another balcony when she won the king’s heart and was crowned as queen of the empire. She was learning to trust God and enjoy His blessings. Then five years later, a bombshell basement; through political intrigue, the entire Jewish people were sentenced to annihilation. Fear caused Esther to freeze in panic, and then rationalize a compromise. Since the king didn’t know she was Jewish, if she kept quiet, maybe she would be spared. But her loving uncle popped that fantasy, and Esther faced the impending disaster. Still doubting her abilities, and doubting God’s plan, she decided to take a risk and asked for her people to fast for her (prayer being implied). Then she took steps of faith, trusting that God was leading her and would make it happen.
Esther submitted her uncertainty to God’s sovereignty. We, too, have a destiny to fulfill. God has placed us where we are to fulfill our destiny, to love others the way Jesus loved us, and to make disciples. Esther trusted where she was being led. Have you done the same?
How do you overcome fear when you or those you love are threatened?
Why do you think we are more afraid of others’ reactions than we are of doing what we should (our responsibilities)?
Consider This
God positioned Esther to save the Jewish people. God put you where you are to make an impact. You work where you work so that you can make a difference in others’ lives. Let your light shine wherever you are.
After five years of marriage, why do you think that Esther never told her husband, the King, that she was Jewish? (Check your study Bible for a brief bio on Xerxes)
In Esther 4:5-10, Esther learns of the edict to annihilate all the Jews. How would you describe her reaction in verse 11? What do you think she was feeling?
Why do you think Mordecai was so confident in his response to Esther (4:13-14)?
What character qualities do you see in Esther’s second response to Mordecai (4:15-16)?
Can you share a time when you took a risk to obey God?
What risks do you face to do the right thing in your world today? What character qualities do you need to do the right thing?
What are the purposes of feasting in the book of Esther (2:18, 8:17, 9:19, and 9:22)? How can feasting relate to you and your life?
How important is prayer and fasting to the Christians today? (See Luke 5:33-35, Acts 13:2, 14:23, Ephesians 6:18, Philippians 4:6, Colossians 4:6) How important is prayer and fasting to you and your family and friends?
Does your confidence rely on your ability or God’s sovereignty?
Moving Forward – Application
Submit your uncertainty to God’s sovereignty. You have a destiny to fulfill. God has placed you where you are to fulfill your destiny. Look around. There are opportunities for you to point people to Jesus every day. Stop ignoring the Holy Spirit nudges and act in faith. God has you where you are for a reason.
Read the entire Book of Esther and consider the number of ways God intervened to position, bless, and save Esther and Mordecai.
Consider your sphere of influence and ask God to open doors of opportunity to
a. Give a word of encouragement, a sincere compliment this week.
b. Take the time to do an act of service for someone this week.
c. Pray for someone this week–even if you only do so silently, this week
d. Share your faith story this week.Ask others to pray for you, for the strength to obey and act when God provides opportunities.
If you are willing, God is able. If you are willing to serve others, God is able to use your efforts for His glory.