The book of Esther reads like a modern-day thriller. From its depiction of the harshness of the Persian king, to its characterization of his high-minded adviser, Haman, the text conveys the perilous situation faced by the Jews after Haman proposed their annihilation (Esther 3:10-15).
By emphasizing the cruel and domineering nature of King Ahasuerus in his previous dealings with Queen Vashti, and by describing how easily he agreed to Haman’s suggestion to destroy some of the people in his kingdom, the author sets the stage for the almost impossible task facing Queen Esther.
Ahasuerus had already removed one queen for disobedience. What would stop him from removing another?
Esther’s Challenging Situation.
When we consider the importance King Ahasuerus placed on outward appearances, we have a better understanding of Esther’s difficult situation.
After learning of Haman’s decree, Mordecai urged “her to go in to the king to make supplication to him and plead before him for her people” (Esther 4:8). But this order was easier said than done. To approach the king required an invitation, and those who violated protocol were put to death unless the king showed mercy (verse 11).
Esther had not been called by Ahasuerus in thirty days, and we have no reason to think the king would be in a mood to show mercy to anyone who violated the law. Even if she was allowed an audience with the king, which was far from certain, Esther would need to convince him to counter a law he authorized. Given his hesitancy to be perceived by his subjects as anything other than strong and decisive, the mission seemed impossible.
Adding to the difficulty was the unalterable nature of the laws of the Medes and Persians (cf. Esther 1:19; 8:8; Daniel 6:8).
The situation was certainly bleak.
God Helps Esther.
Thankfully, the blessings of God never cease. When things appear darkest, hope remains.
God’s unseen hand ushered Esther to her royal position, and His wonderful providence guided her efforts. Although she was hesitant to heed Mordecai’s command, she was not unwilling. But before she approached the king, she requested the Jews to fast on her behalf (Esther 4:16).
Esther understood God’s help was needed, and she intended to petition Him for it. Her mentality was similar to that of the prophet Jeremiah, who wrote:
“Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘Therefore I hope in Him!’” (Lamentations 3:22-24).
We would do well to learn from and follow Esther’s example by seeking God’s help before we attempt to solve life’s problems, for by doing so, she found strength sufficient for the task.
Chad Ramsey preaches for the Gloster Street Church of Christ in Tupelo, Mississippi. You can access their Bible classes and Chad’s sermons on Gloster Street’s YouTube page.
Chad was - and still is - “my preacher” from when I spent my high school and early college years at Gloster Street. I’m thankful to be able to share some of his writings with you.
