The story of Esther reveals how God works in mysterious ways, even in mundane ways. We may not always recognize his handiwork but he’s always working to accomplish his plans.
Talking Points:
- The story of Esther takes place in Persia during the reign of King Xerxes. It’s an account of a handful of Jews who stayed in Persia after others went back to rebuild Jerusalem.
- A seemingly random event was the impetus for God to do something great for the nation of Israel. And he used a teenage girl to do it. Esther 1:10-12, 19-20
- The king chooses Esther as queen. That’s when her cousin* Mordecai enters the picture and saves the king’s life. Neither of them understood at the time how these random events were setting up the eventual freedom of their people. Esther 2:16-17, 21-23
- Some may mistake it for coincidence, but God often uses mundane things to lead us toward his greater plans for our lives. Romans 8:28
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Share a time when you had a “fish out of water” experience when you felt like you didn’t belong. What were some of the emotions you felt? How did that experience bolster or defeat you?
- Read Esther 1:10-12, 19-20. Why do you think Vashti refused to come to the king? How do you think all the other women felt when they heard about this decree demanding their obedience to their husbands?
- Why do you think God used the disobedience of one woman as the impetus for a new woman to come into power?
- Read Esther 2:16-17. If you were in Esther’s shoes, what would you be thinking as you became queen? Have you ever been thrust into a situation where you weren’t sure you were up to the challenge? Explain.
- Read Esther 2:21-23. Review all of the “coincidences” that occurred in this part of the story. Why do you think God wrote the story this way? Share a time you were in the right place at the right time for something. Did you recognize God’s hand in that then?
- How have you seen God work in your life in the mundane things? Share a time you were blessed by a coincidental meeting or an event that changed your life.
- Read Romans 8:28. As you look back on your life, share a time a challenging situation turned out to be for your good. How did God provide and lead during that time? What lessons did that situation teach you that can help you when you face future challenges?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
*Some sources call Mordecai Esther’s “uncle” because he raised her as his daughter.
