OCTOBER 3 – Reading 276

by Marcia Rainey | October 3

“THE UNNAMED, INVISIBLE, FAITHFUL, PRESENT GOD”
(Esther 1:1-3:15)

”Esther was also taken to the king’s palace and entrusted to Hegai, who had charge of the harem . . . the king was attracted to Esther more than to any of the other women, and she won his favor and approval.” – Esther 2:8, 17

Chris and I have watched Survivor, a television reality competition show, since the second season over 20 years ago. One challenge that always stands out is the blindfold walk, where contestants must navigate obstacles blindfolded while a teammate calls out instructions. It is chaotic and confusing as multiple “callers” are yelling directions to multiple teammates simultaneously. The blindfolded contestant cannot see what lies ahead, just one step from tumbling or crashing into something. They are blind to what is coming and must move forward by trust while chaos swirls all around. In many ways, this is how Esther must have felt. She was blinded to what lay ahead, caught in circumstances she did not choose–exiled, orphaned, and then taken from her home to the palace at the king’s decree. What was she thinking and feeling about her present reality? Did she see an uncertain future dictated by evil powers and decrees outside her control? Could she face the uncertain days with a sense of certainty that God’s unseen hand was guiding her steps?

This book is full of heavy realities–abuse of power, exploitation of women, unchecked ambition and manipulation, persecution, survival in exile, and anti-Semitism with its existential threats. At the end of chapter three, we find Esther having won the king’s favor and now queen of the empire that destroyed her homeland. Esther’s uncle Mordecai, who was her guardian before being taken to the king’s palace, has refused to bow to Haman, a Persian governmental official, sparking racial prejudice and the seeds of genocide. 

Injustice and evil were realities in Esther’s world. Yet, God’s providence is a hidden thread that simultaneously runs through her world. Providence is the careful, ongoing way God orchestrates circumstances, relationships, and events to accomplish His purposes. Though God is never mentioned by name in this book, His presence and care are unmistakable and undeniable.  

Evil and injustice entered the world when Adam and Eve sinned, as recorded in Genesis 3. We can’t deny this truth as we observe the happenings in our world today. Yet, the reality of evil does not mean God is absent or not involved. Like Esther, we may find ourselves “blinded” by circumstances we didn’t choose, feeling swept into an uncertain and possibly even dangerous future. But God is still providentially at work. The story of Esther helps us recognize and appreciate that even in seasons of uncertainty, shattered dreams, or unjust circumstances, God is present and caring for us. The One True God. Our God. The holy, faithful God. May we trust, like Esther and Mordecai, that our God is providentially present, guiding our steps according to His good purposes. 

Simple Truth:
God is providentially present in all our days, guiding and bringing to pass His good purposes.  

Reflections:

1. When have you felt “blinded” in life by an uncertain future, shattered dreams, or unjust circumstances?

    

2. How can recognizing God’s providential hand in your life provide hope, confidence, and courage as you face today and all your future days?

Application:

1. Reflect, perhaps even record, specific examples of providential guidance and ongoing care during your life. Consider sharing a testimony to younger family members as a way to tell the next generation of God’s faithfulness.

    

2. If you are in a time of difficulty and uncertainty, seek God through prayer. Recognize that Mordecai was a godly and wise guide for Esther. If you are in a difficult and uncertain season, consider seeking advice or mentorship from wise and godly persons God has placed in your life.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, You are the beginning and the end. There is nothing in our lives hidden from you. We acknowledge that life is not always what we want it to be, and even sometimes feels too heavy to bear. Help us. Guide us. Sustain us. We trust in Your providential care.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.