Wow! We’re into Esther, the last book of our journey through the 12 historical books. While our reading program is one chapter per day, five days per week, Esther is a book best read in one sitting – takes about 30 minutes. Even if you’re not following the reading program, I encourage you to read Esther.

Talking with an orthodox Jew way back in 1969, I told him that his scriptures were the same 39 books that were in our Bible. He said, “Even Esther?” I replied, “Yes, even Esther. Although it doesn’t mention God explicitly, no book better shows God working behind the scenes to protect his people.” He was incredulous: “How did you know that?” Simple answer: “I’ve read it!”

God at work behind the scenes…

Suppose there’s going to be a national plot against the Jews, supported by the king. How better to turn that plot around than to have a Jewish queen? But how can that happen? We already have a queen.

In chapter one, God uses a drunken king’s demand and fear of men not being “king of their castle” to depose Queen Vashti.

On the seventh day of the party, the king, high on the wine, ordered the seven eunuchs who were his personal servants … to bring him Queen Vashti resplendent in her royal crown. He wanted to show off her beauty to the guests and officials. She was extremely good-looking. But Queen Vashti refused to come, refused the summons delivered by the eunuchs. (Esther 1.10 – 12, MSG)

The king called his advisors. What to do? Their counsel was clear.

So, if the king agrees, let him pronounce a royal ruling and have it recorded in the laws of the Persians and Medes so that it cannot be revoked, that Vashti is permanently banned from King Xerxes’ presence. And then let the king give her royal position to a woman who knows her place. When the king’s ruling becomes public knowledge throughout the kingdom, extensive as it is, every woman, regardless of her social position, will show proper respect to her husband. (Esther 1.19, 20, MSG)

Step one is done. The queen’s spot is vacant. It’s worth a separate blog to see how Esther fills it.

The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will. (Proverbs 21.1, ESV)