The biblical story of Esther, found in the Old Testament Book of Esther, is a powerful account of bravery, faith, and divine purpose. Esther, a young Jewish woman, rose from obscurity to become queen of Persia and ultimately saved her people from destruction. The Book of Esther is an inspiring read for Women’s History Month as we reflect on the bold women who have changed the course of history.
The story begins in the Persian Empire during the reign of King Xerxes, whose reign stretches from India to Ethiopia, across 127 provinces. After Queen Vashti is deposed for refusing to obey the king, a search begins for a new queen. Among the young women brought to the king is Esther, an orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai. Esther keeps her Jewish identity secret, as advised by Mordecai, and wins the favor of King Xerxes, becoming queen.
Esther had not told anyone of her nationality and family background, because Mordecai had directed her not to do so. —Esther 2:10 (NLT)
Eventually, Mordecai learns of a plot to assassinate King Xerxes, so he tells Esther, who in turn informs the king.
But Mordecai heard about the plot and gave the information to Queen Esther. She then told the king about it and gave Mordecai credit for the report. When an investigation was made and Mordecai’s story was found to be true, the two men were impaled on a sharpened pole. —Esther 2:22-23a
The story continues with Haman, a high-ranking official in the king’s court, growing enraged when Mordecai refuses to bow to him. In retaliation, Haman devises a plot to destroy all the Jews in the entire empire of Xerxes and secures the king’s approval for his plan. Mordecai urges Esther to intervene, warning her that she, too, will not escape the decree.
Mordecai sent this reply to Esther: “Don’t think for a moment that because you’re in the palace you will escape when all other Jews are killed. If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?” —Esther 4:13-14 (NLT)
Despite the risks—approaching the king without an invitation could mean death—Esther gathers her courage and prepares to speak up.
Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: “Go and gather together all the Jews of Susa and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will do the same. And then, though it is against the law, I will go in to see the king. If I must die, I must die.”—Esther 4:15-16 (NLT)
Esther appears before the king, who welcomes her, and she invites the king and Haman to a banquet. At that banquet, she invites them both to another banquet, where she reveals her Jewish identity and exposes Haman’s wicked plot. The king is enraged and orders Haman’s execution—he orders Haman to be impaled on the very pole on which Haman had planned to impale Mordecai. In the end, through Esther’s courage and obedience, her people are saved.
Then King Xerxes said to Queen Esther and Mordecai the Jew, “I have given Esther the property of Haman, and he has been impaled on a pole because he tried to destroy the Jews. Now go ahead and send a message to the Jews in the king’s name, telling them whatever you want, and seal it with the king’s signet ring. But remember that whatever has already been written in the king’s name and sealed with his signet ring can never be revoked.” —Esther 8:7-8 (NLT)
There is more to Esther’s story—10 chapters worth—and I highly recommend reading it throughout this week.
Esther’s journey teaches us powerful lessons about faith, bravery, and purpose:
Courage in the Face of Fear — Esther risked her life to do what was right, reminding us that true courage is acting in faith despite uncertainty.
Faith and Dependence on God — Before taking action, Esther fasted and sought guidance, showing the importance of turning to God in difficult moments.
Purpose and Divine Timing — Mordecai’s words to Esther—“for just such a time as this”—remind us that we are placed in positions and seasons of life for a reason.
Advocacy and Leadership — Esther used her influence to stand up for others, demonstrating the power of speaking up for those in need.
Esther’s story is a testament to the strength and influence of women who step into their purpose with faith and boldness. No matter where you are, God has a plan for your life—one that is greater than anything you could ever imagine!
How will you allow God to work through you this week?
Amber Dabney Smith
Your Hope Dealer
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