Sometimes it may feel like God is late to show up but the story of Esther proves that God's timing is always perfect.
Talking Points:
- At just the right time, Esther makes her request to the king – revealing her own identity and Haman’s evil intent to kill the Jews. Esther 7:3-6
- God’s plan is fully revealed when a new decree is issued, replacing Haman’s plan to execute the Jews with one that saves the Jewish nation once again. Esther 8:5-8, Esther 9:1-2
- To this day, the Jews celebrate the Feast of Purim in memory of the Esther story. We, too, should regularly take time to reflect and celebrate God’s provision in our lives. Esther 9:20-22, Psalm 100:3-4
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Have you ever experienced a miracle or an event that was so perfectly timed that it had to be God’s handiwork? Explain.
- Read Esther 7:3-6. Notice how Esther framed her request to the king. Why was each part significant to share and in the order it was shared?
- What do you think Haman was thinking in this moment?
- Read Esther 8:5-8. Why do you think the king was so open to letting Esther and Mordecai draft the decree themselves? Why is it important to note that once a decree was written it couldn’t be revoked?
- How does chapter 8 reveal God’s perfect timing? What do you think the Jews thought as this new decree began to circulate?
- Read Esther 9:20-22. Why was it important to Mordecai that the Jews remember these days with a celebration? What are some ways we celebrate God’s provision in Christianity today?
- Read Psalm 100:1-5. Identify all that we should acknowledge about God from this psalm. What are some things you are thankful for and how have you shown thankfulness to God for them?
- Why is it important to remember God’s provision in our lives and celebrate it year after year? What do we stand to miss out on if we don’t?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
