Scripture to Read: Esther 5-6
Although God is never mentioned in the Book of Esther, we see His miraculous work throughout the book. In Esther 5, after fasting for three days, Esther entered the king’s inner court knowing she could be killed since the king had not summoned her. But God was working, and the king showed Esther his favor, asking her what she desired. Esther invited the king and Haman to a banquet. At the first banquet, the king asked Esther again what she desired, up to half his kingdom, but she still postponed and requested that both the king and Haman attend a second banquet the next day. Haman left the first banquet feeling proud because he had been singled out by the queen. As he left, Haman saw Mordecai, who still refused to bow to him. That refusal ruined his proud moment. Haman told his wife and friends how Mordecai ruined his special day. They suggested building a huge gallows for Mordecai’s execution the next day, and Haman loved the plan. In Esther 6, the king couldn’t sleep, so he had the royal records read to him. He discovered Mordecai had exposed a plot against his life but had never been rewarded. At that moment, Haman entered, planning to request Mordecai’s execution. The king asked Haman how to honor a man the king wanted to reward. Haman assumed the king meant it for him, so he suggested a royal robe, a horse, and a public procession. The king ordered Haman to do all of that to Mordecai. God humbles the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).
Challenge & Application
How do you see God’s favor being poured out on Esther in Esther 5–6?
How do you see God opposing the prideful Haman and giving His grace to Mordecai? How have you experienced God’s grace?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!