God's sovereignty means his justice is better than any revenge we can seek.
Talking Points:
- Esther bravely requests two banquets for Haman and the king. Haman fools himself into thinking he is in control of his own destiny. Esther 5:3-5,7,9-14
- God reminds the king that he had never formally honored Mordecai for saving his life. The praises Haman craved were lavished instead on Mordecai. Esther 6:3-6,10-12
- When the wicked scheme against you, don’t seek revenge. Pray that God will expose the lies and establish justice. Psalm 37:7
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Share a time you were wronged by someone. What happened and how did it turn out?
- Read Esther 5:3-5. How are we beginning to see God’s providential timing in this part of the story? Why do you think Esther waited to make her request?
- Read Esther 5:9-14. Why was Haman feeling so good about himself at this point? How does pride taint our view of ourselves? How have you seen pride ruin someone’s life?
- Read Esther 6:3-6, 10-12. Notice the phrase “as it happened”. How does God begin to reveal his justice for Haman in this passage? How would things have been different if it were someone else who had to march Mordecai around instead of Haman?
- How did God’s justice show up in this part of the story? Make sure to identify each thing that happened that led to Haman feeling humiliated and dejected.
- Read Psalm 37:7. How have you wasted energy in the past seeking revenge? How does this part of Esther’s story encourage you to trust that God’s justice always wins out?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
