
Esther tells how God’s people, though living in exile, were preserved from destruction when Esther courageously risked her life to intercede with the king. Though God’s name is never mentioned, His hand is seen in the “coincidences” and reversals that lead to the rescue of His people. What looked like chance—the casting of lots (purim), the sleepless night of the king, the timing of Esther’s plea—was actually God’s hidden orchestration. In the same way, Jesus is our “divine dice”: what seemed like the random cruelty of the cross was in fact God’s sovereign plan to save us. Where Esther stood before the throne risking death to give her people life, Jesus went before the throne of judgment, died in our place, and secured eternal life.
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Devotional Thought: God’s name isn’t mentioned in Esther, but He’s present behind the scenes, placing Esther in the palace at just the right time. When we can’t see God directly, we can trust He’s still moving.
Kid Conversation Starter: Have you ever felt like God was helping you in a way you didn’t notice until later? -
Devotional Thought: Haman’s hatred toward the Jews looked unstoppable, but even the darkest schemes cannot undo God’s promises. Our enemies may plot, but God is stronger than evil.
Kid Conversation Starter: What’s something scary that God has helped you through? -
Devotional Thought: Mordecai reminds Esther she was placed in her position “for such a time as this.” God puts us in specific places, families, and friendships so we can show His love.
Kid Conversation Starter: Why do you think God put you in your school, family, or neighborhood? -
Devotional Thought: A sleepless king, a forgotten act of kindness, and a perfectly timed banquet—what looks like coincidence is God’s orchestration. God’s timing is never late, even when we feel impatient.
Kid Conversation Starter: Have you ever had something happen at just the right time? -
Devotional Thought: Esther boldly speaks, and Haman falls into the very trap he set for others. God loves to turn evil plans upside down. Jesus’ cross looked like defeat, but it became the greatest victory.
Kid Conversation Starter: What’s a time when something bad turned into something good? -
Devotional Thought: God’s people were given freedom and joy, and they celebrated with the feast of Purim to remember His deliverance. We, too, celebrate God’s salvation through Jesus with joy and worship.
Kid Conversation Starter: What’s your favorite way to celebrate something exciting God has done? -
Devotional Thought: The book ends reminding us that God preserved His people through Esther’s courage and His hidden hand. This points us to Jesus, who gave His life to preserve us forever. Let’s remember God’s story in our lives, just like they remembered Purim.
Kid Conversation Starter: How can we make sure we never forget the amazing things God has done for us?
VIDEOS:
Gospel Glimpses in Esther – The Gospel Coalition
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eF_AVcrup70The Bible Project
https://bibleproject.com/videos/esther/
BOOKS:
Divine Direction by Craig Groschel
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HAKH226?ref=KC_GS_GB_USWild Goose Chase by Mark Batterson: https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Goose-Chase-Adventure-Pursuing/dp/1590527194
PODCASTS:
The Bible for Normal People
https://thebiblefornormalpeople.com/episode-235-aaron-koller-biblicizing-esther/