Lesson No. Two

Title: Trusting God's Work
Group Discussion: Describe a time in your past when you saw God work through circumstances in your life to bring something about.
Read: Esther 2

SOMETHING TO PONDER/SUMMARY
When the curtain rises and the play begins, we see and hear the actors and actresses tell a story. But the most important person in the play is not on the stage. The director is the one who has instructed the cast for months on where to stand and sit, and when and how to say a line. The direct is behind the scenes giving final instructions, touching up makeup and encouraging the players. The play is a success because of the director, who has orchestrated every detail of the play.

In the book of Esther, God is not mentioned, but he is the key figure in the story. He works through the circumstances to place everything in order so that his plans will be accomplished. God is the director of our lives as well. As we look back at different times in our lives, we can see his handprints all over. Our response to him is to look for his hand moving and to trust his direction.

The plan that is put into action to replace Queen Vashti is extensive and detained. It takes approximately four years to complete.

1. Summarize the plan to find a new queen that King Xerxes put into action (vv. 1-4)
2. How does Esther enter the story and become the queen (vv. 5-17)
3. Put yourself in the shoes of either Esther or Mordecai. How would each of these characters have felt throughout this process?
4. The author mentions three times that Esther won approval in someone's eyes (vv. 9,15,17). What does this tell us about Esther?
5. Think of someone you know who finds favor with other because o their presence and personality. How can you being living out one of the characteristics of this person in your own life?
6. Many young women were brought to the palace and placed in the harem. What was the role of these women, and how would Esther's life, role and rights be different from the harem when she became queen?
7. The author mentions several times that Mordecai instructed Esther to keep her identity hidden. What might have motivated that request?
8. How does Mordecai enter into the plot of the story (vv. 19-23)?
9. What does this glimpse of Mordecai's life tell us about his character?
10. Even though God has not been directly mentioned in the book, where do you see his hand moving in the story so far?
11. Where do you see God's hand moving in circumstance in your life now? How do you think he wants you to respond?

Dear God,
I ask that you give us wisdom and understanding as we dig deeper into your word. I ask that we learn to trust and see your work father. I ask that if there is anything we do not understand you would make it plan and clear to us. We praise you Lord and ask for your guidance right now. Open our hearts, minds and spirits to your word. We praises, thank you and give you all the praise.
~Amen and Amen~

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

~Amazed By His Grace~
~Tanya~

Question No. One

Summarize the plan to find a new queen that King Xerxes put into action (vv. 1-4).

According to the answer key, note that four years have passed since Queen Vashti was dethroned. Compare 2:16, which cites the seventh year of King Xerxes's reign, and 1:2, which takes place in the third year of King Xerxes's reign. During the time between Vashti's disposal and the events in chapter 2, King Xerxes was occupied with his military campaigns in Greece. It was after his defeat in 479 BC that he returned to Susa and remembered what happened to Vashti.

The King attendants must have seen the frustration in the King. This prompted them search the empire for beautiful young virgins.

Do you think she had to be young, because they felt she would be more obedient to the King?

Hegai was a trusted attendant of the King, you can tell because he was in was a man placed in authority by the King. Therefore he was over the girls and was to see that they are given beauty treatments.

Once this beauty treatment process was complete, the women would be taken to the King and which everyone please the King she would replace Queen Vashti.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

~Amazed By His Grace~
~Tanya~

Question No. 2 How does Esther enter the story and become the queen (vv 5-17)?

Esther's cousin Mordecai must have heard the king's order and edict that was proclaimed, asking that search for beautiful young virgin for the king was in going on. The girls we brought to the citadel of Susa and put under the care of Hegai. Esther was taken to the king's palace and entrusted to Hegai. Hagai must have been a very important and trusted man, because he was given charge of the harem.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

~Amazed By His Grace~
~Tanya~

Question No. 3 Put yourself in the shoes o either Esther or Mordecai. How would each of these characters have felt throughout this process?

Imagine Mordecai's anxiety over the future of his cousin Eshter. He would probably have been sad to have Esther taken from his care and worried a bout her treatment. He might also have been hopeful about her possibly holding such an honored position with the chance to have an influence on the kingdom.

Esther might have also had a range of emotions during the lengthy process, including excitement, hope, fear, sadness and uncertainty.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

~Amazed By His Grace~
~Tanya~

Question No. 4 The author mentions three times that Esther won approval in someone's eyes (vv 9, 15, 17). What does this tell us about Esther?

Esther won favor with Hegai, the king and all those who saw her; she was indeed beautiful. However, it seems that Esther would not have won everyone's approval if she possessed only physical beauty. Esther's presence, demeanor and personality must have been part of her appeal. Verse 17 implies the king found her appealing not just in the physical sense.

Each woman who was ready to appear before the king was offered anything she wanted to take with her. She could have requested jewels, clothing, cosmetics or other ornaments to enhance her beauty and her chance of being chosen. Esther chose only those things that Hegai suggested. Certainly her humility and modesty would have shown.

In studying character throughout this book you'll find that a person's character and presence affects others and is appealing-- or repelling. How people view us say a lot about our character.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

~Amazed By His Grace~
~Tanya~

Tanya,

I appreciate your diligence in this study. Here are some of my thoughts --

Question 3 and Question 4

Put yourself in the shoes of either Esther or Mordecai. How would each of these characters have felt throughout this process?

It's important to note that Esther was not among this harem by choice. She was selected for her youth and beauty and removed from her home probably by force. Having been warned by Mordecai not to reveal her real name or the fact that she was of the tribe of Benjamin, she must have understood the implication of what it would mean for them to know she was a Hebrew. That must have weighed on her mind daily and would have brought uncertainty about her future if she were to be found out. I'm sure it was a time of adjustment as well, because being a part of a harem would not have been the choice of a young lady raised with Godly principles. In addition to her beauty she seems to be a woman of character, modesty and submission. To have not asked anything for herself beyond what was recommended indicates how unselfish Esther must have been and also how much faith she must have had in God that she would rely upon Him for help.

Mordecai shows a deep concern for Esther and her welfare by risking coming so close to the harem's house every single day. He could not forget Esther, who had been entrusted to his care after her parents died. In many ways this reminds me of the story of Moses and Sarah and Joseph. I feel certain though the situations were different, how God took care of them in Pharoah's house, was a comfort and strength to Mordecai and Esther.

Question 5

Think of someone who finds favor with others because of their presence and personality.

One I only had the joy of having fellowship with for 2 weeks. His presence and personality lit up the room. He was such a joy to be with, because he is someone who truly loves the Lord and shares Him with others at every opportunity, a student of the Word, talented in many areas and an example of someone who lives his life to please Him. He has had several setbacks in life, but in spite of those obstacles, he always keeps a great attitude.

Another is a lady who seems so completely unselfish. She orders her day according to the needs of others. For 19 years she worked with her husband in order to help him in his business, even though it was a job she would not have chosen and really did not like. Many are drawn to her because of the faith and spirit she exhibits. She has a tender heart for the Lord and "prays without ceasing". The Lord uses her both in intercessory prayer and teaching in a way that truly amazes me.

Another is a popular man, whose name you might recognize. He makes me think of Jesus, because he has such a warm heart and a great love for children. He attends to the children who come to him first, even if adults have been waiting longer for an opportunity to speak with him. He doesn't turn anyone away -- from the greatest to the least.

Blessings,

Chelki

Exodus 34:6

Then the Lord passed by in front of him and proclaimed, "The Lord, the Lord God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth;"

"Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" -- Jesus, the Messiah!, our salvation.

[This message was edited by Chelki on December 21, 2003 at 04:30 PM.]

Question No. 6
Many young women were brought to the palace and placed in the harem. What was the role of these women, and how would Esther's life, role and rights be different from the harem when she became queen?

The purpose of these women and the harem in general was to provide pleasure for the king. They had no rights, and their lives were restricted and probably very dull. The remained in the harem until the king called them by name (v.12). If they were called they would go to the king to give him sexual pleasure. The women who were not crowned queen would most likely live out their lives must like widows (v. 14). If Esther had not been chosen, she would have become one of those women forgotten by the king.

This concept will appear again in question 10 as one of the circumstances God orchestrates to accomplish his plans. Because Esther was the queen, she had more rights, freedom, influence and authority thank the other women; she was in a position where she could accomplish more for God when the time came.


Question No. 7
The author mentions several times that Mordecai instructed Esther to keep her identity hidden. What might have motivated that request?

Mordecai might have been uncertain as to how Esther would be treated if her identity was known. He may also have had some sense of God's hand in the process of her becoming queen. Perhaps he felt that there would be an appropriate time for disclosure.


Question No 8
Who does Mordecai enter into the plot of the story (vv. 19-23)?
Mordecai enter the story simply by being at the right place at the right time. The bible said, "when the virgins were assembled a second time, Mordecai was sitting at the king's gate." More then likely he was setting there to make sure Esther was doing ok. But as he seat there he over heard two of the king's officers conspiring to assassinate the king. Once this took place he told Esther and she reported this to the Kings.

This is an example of how God will put you in a position to receive what only he can give you.


Question No. 9
What does this glimpse of Mordecai' life tell us about his character?
We have not seen a tremendous amount of Mordecai yet in the story, but just as the plot of a movie unfolds scene after scene, more and more about a person's character can be observed with each glimpse into that person's life. Mordecai displays integrity in his choice to reveal the assassination plat against the king even though there may have been risks involved. Mordecai also shows deep concern for Esther by continuing to seek out information about her. He does not leave her in the palace and forget about her but instead goes to visit each day.

People put together a picture of our character from the times they interact with us, no matter how briefly, God wants us to be people of godly, consistent character, and that means choosing to do what is right in all situations.

Question No. 10
Even though God has not been directly mentioned in the book, where do you see his hand moving in the story so far?

Esther's being blessed with extraordinary beauty; Mordecai's being employed at the king's gate so that he hears the assassination plot; Queen Vashti's refusal in the first chapter, which leads to the search for a new queen; God's working in the hearts and minds of those Esther encourters so that she wins their approval; and Mordecai's name and deed being recorded in the annals of the king. Can you see how God is orchestrating events and circumstance so that everything will be in place?

Question No. 11
Where do you see God's hand moving in circumstances in your life right now?
God is moving in my life in a mighty way. I my lay off allowed me the opportunity to one go back to school full –time and two be blessed with a position that is showing me what I really am called to do. My position working with the girls is the best position I have every had, and it is more than a position, it is one of those things they say. "Find something you like and get paid to do it." Type of things. In order for me to get closer to God all the things that happened had to happen.

What do you think he wants you to respond?
God wants me to praise and thank him for all circumstances in my life. Although, sometimes I can not see the purpose, but God is orchestrating something for me, just as he did for Esther.

Most Gracious God,
I thank you for orchestrating situations in my life and the lives of other. Father give us the ability to see your hand working in our circumstances where they are currently positive or negative. Amen

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

~Amazed By His Grace~
~Tanya~

Tanya,

I admire you for taking time from your studies to also study the Word of God. One of my college professors (in a secular college) taught us that one cannot be truly educated without a knowledge of His Word. And to that I say a hearty AMEN!

I am going to add my thoughts to Question No. 7 The author mentions several times that Mordecai instructed Esther to keep her identity hidden. What might have motivated that request?

As I studied this question, I found some interesting and helpful insights. The Jews who lived in this area were a part of the exile from the Southern Kingdom (mainly the tribes of Judah, Benjamin and Levi). When they were allowed to return to their homeland approximately two-thirds stayed behind in Babylon because they had become comfortable there, having acquired their own businesses and important positions. Even though the Jews were living in relative peace, they were well aware of their enemies who lived in their midst . Even in modern society many Jews think it is necessary to hide their identity by changing their names.

In this story we can see how history repeats itself. Once Moses led the Israelites across the Red Sea, they were soon attacked by the Amalekites. "Then the Lord said to Moses, ˜Write this on a scroll as something to be remembered and make sure that Joshua hears it, because I will completely blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven." (Exodus 17:14) and in verse 16 of the same chapter, "The Lord will be at war against the Amalekites from generation to generation."

You might ask what does this have to do with Mordecai and Esther? It is believed that Haman was a descendant of Agag, the king of Amalek, (I Samuel 15:20) whom Saul was to have killed and later Samuel put him to death. Most, though not all of the Amalekites were killed. Haman's family is believed to be a part of the remnant that was left. It is possible the last of the Amalekites were being blotted out with the death of Haman, his ten sons and all those who participated in trying to annihilate the Jews still living in the area. Haman's hatred for the Jews had come from a long-time animosity passed down through the generations. Mordecai refused to bow to Haman because of his heritage and the known fact that Haman was an enemy of the Jews.

The same can be seen with King Herod at the time of Jesus' birth. Herod was a descendant of Issac. The son of an Idumean father and a Samaritan mother, he was not a Jew. He was not a descendant of the 12 sons of Jacob, particularly Judah and Benjamin or the Levites. Being an Idumean, he was a descendant of the Edomites, who were descendants of Esau. His fear of losing his position to Jesus, the real King of the Jews, led him to have young Jewish boys, newborn up to 2 years old, killed in order to secure his own future and status and that of the ruling party. Again the animosity between Esau and his brother Jacob had not been resolved and is still present in the world today.

The lesson for us is the admonition Paul gives in Romans 12:18 "If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men." We need to be aware of how we speak of others. What we say about others can permanently damage their reputation and witness. If we have animosity in our hearts toward anyone, we need to repent and pray and be cognizant of the possibility of it being passed on even to the next generation.

Blessings,

Chelki

Exodus 34:6

Then the Lord passed by in front of him and proclaimed, "The Lord, the Lord God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth;"

"Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" -- Jesus, the Messiah!, our salvation.

[This message was edited by Chelki on December 30, 2003 at 06:09 PM.]

Question 9 brings up some ethical responses. Mordecai did not stand by and let the ruler of the land be murdered. He did not turn a blind eye and decide not to get involved. Instead, he reported what he had heard and let those in authority deal with the issue. It appears they did so with care because they first investigated the accusations to see if they were true before these two men were punished.

This becomes an admonition to us too, to not judge others solely upon what others might say. Our relationships can be damaged irreparably when we do not seek to know the truth.

Blessings,

Chelki

Exodus 34:6

Then the Lord passed by in front of him and proclaimed, "The Lord, the Lord God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth;"

"Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" -- Jesus, the Messiah!, our salvation.

[This message was edited by Chelki on December 29, 2003 at 05:42 PM.]

Hi Tanya and Chelki,

I appreciate both your input into this and I will go past the questions since you both answered them beautifully. I apologise first for taking so long, been busy deep in learning, doing, praying and being....

I can see how God orchestates our lives and even when people step outside his plans, he works with it and the amazing thing is that we still live God's plan for our lives. What this chapter shows me is how superficial some of these people were at the time. How unfairly they treated their women, how the women had to be without spot or blemish, yet it was ok by society for the man to be this way.

Another thing I get from Esther and is what you are conveying,inner beauty and Godly character are so much more effective than external beauty. It also gave me hope for society at that time even though people had a certain amount of value on external beauty, the good qualities of a person's character still win out.

The relationship of Esther and Modecai, even though it is a Father and Adopted Daughter, it was more like wise old man, with proterge...so we can also say this symbolies our relationship with God and his adopted Children (us). If we behave like Esther did with Modercai,with our relationship with God and trust him with our lives, do what he says, he will not steer us wrong and we will triumph in the end for the greater good of all, no matter what the circumstances.

I also got there are many scenes and scenarios that we go through and events in one situation, which can change our lives at any moment. We are not to be too comfortable with our lives that we don't make the necessary changes or take the necessary steps, nor are we to be too fearful, that we don't do what is required of us. We are never to judge any moment, because really the end could have many different conclusions. However we can take comfort that God's plan will not fail and we can claim like Esther and Modercai victory in the end, because we have God on our side. Amen,

love and blessings in the Lord,

Serenity

BTW,

Another thought came to me, not only did Esther listen Modercai, the King was also listening to other people and doing what they said because he thought the men were wise. This Chapter on trust could also be about listening and doing to develop trust even further.

love and blessings in the Lord,

Serenity