The Book of Esther recounts the remarkable journey of a young orphan girl, raised by her cousin Mordecai, who instilled in her a deep reverence for God. Though God's name is not explicitly mentioned in its ten chapters, His providence is strikingly evident as He orchestrates events to fulfill His purpose. Esther's story unfolds with her transformation from an ordinary girl to the Queen of Persia, chosen by King Ahasuerus for her exceptional charm and beauty, surpassing all other women. The narrative begins with King Ahasuerus hosting lavish feasts to display his wealth and power, followed by the dismissal of Queen Vashti for refusing his command. A decree brings young virgins to the palace, and Esther, presented by Mordecai, captivates Hegai, the eunuch, and ultimately the king, who crowns her queen. Trouble emerges with Haman's promotion and his hatred for Mordecai, who refuses to bow to him. Haman's plot to destroy all Jews, approved by the king, sets a dire challenge before Esther. Mordecai, learning of the decree, mourns deeply for his people in sackcloth at the king's gate, unable to enter the palace grounds in such attire. His genuine grief moves Esther, though initially hesitant, to act after Mordecai warns her that even as queen, she is not safe from Haman's scheme. Trusting in divine deliverance, Mordecai urges her to approach the king, despite the risk to her life. Esther, overcoming her fears, calls for a three-day fast among the Jews in Shushan and resolves to submit to God's will, risking everything to save her people. Esther's humble self-sacrifice and Mordecai's unwavering faith exemplify love and concern for others, pushing past personal fears to benefit their brethren. Their actions do not go unrewarded, as God elevates Mordecai to a position of great authority and wealth in Persia, while Esther remains the favored queen, her influence and power increasing. Their story illustrates the power of submitting to God's purpose, showing that He lifts up those who humbly live with outgoing concern and self-sacrifice.

The Book of Esther recounts the remarkable story of how Queen Esther ascended to the throne in Persia and, through her wise trust in God, preserved her people from extinction. At the heart of this narrative is Mordecai, a mid-level government official in the Persian court, who emerges as the true hero of the account. His life exemplifies day-by-day faith and patient endurance in living according to God's way, even amidst unfair circumstances. The story begins with King Ahasuerus of Persia dethroning Queen Vashti for refusing to appear before him at a banquet. In search of a new queen, he issues an edict for beautiful young virgins to be presented to him. Among them is Esther, a young Jewish woman raised by her cousin Mordecai, who serves in the king's palace at Shushan, sitting within the king's gate. Mordecai, having instilled wisdom, tact, humility, and grace in Esther, advises her to conceal her Jewish identity as she enters the palace. Even after she is chosen as queen, Mordecai remains vigilant, checking on her welfare daily while maintaining discretion about their relationship. During his duties, Mordecai uncovers an assassination plot against the king and informs Esther, who relays the information to Ahasuerus. Though the plot is thwarted, Mordecai receives no reward for his loyalty. Years later, Haman, an Amalekite and the king's favored prime minister, rises to power and demands that all bow to him. Mordecai refuses, prioritizing his loyalty to God over submission to Haman, whose lineage God had declared enmity against. Enraged by this defiance, Haman convinces Ahasuerus to issue a decree for the extermination of all Jews in the empire and the confiscation of their wealth. Upon learning of the decree, Mordecai mourns deeply, donning sackcloth and ashes outside the king's court. When Esther discovers his grief, she sends emissaries to understand the cause. Mordecai reveals the dire situation and urges her to approach the king to plead for their people, despite the Persian law that forbids uninvited approaches to the king under penalty of death. His steadfast resolve and faith in God's purpose shine through as he encourages Esther to act, reflecting his lifelong commitment to patient endurance and trust in God's timing.