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Esther Chapter 6 – He Gives Grace to the Humble
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In today’s Instagram-filtered world where ‘likes’ and ‘follows’ can cloud our sense of worth, it’s comforting to know that God sees us. His merciful gaze cuts through noise as it tenderly lands on His children. He knows our struggles, the times we falter, and the moments we pick ourselves up. He sees our earnest attempts to be loving mothers, dedicated wives, and steadfast friends. He sees our attempts to balance it all—sometimes gracefully, sometimes not.
As we open our Bibles to Esther Chapter 6, we find ourselves at a significant turning point in the story, one that we hinted at in the first week of this study. Remember the unique way this book is written? Remember its chiastic structure? Think of it like a beautifully folded piece of paper, where the two halves mirror each other. This chapter is the crease in the middle, the point where the paper folds, and everything pivots. The stage is set in a palace filled with schemes, but God’s hand moves with purpose and precision. It’s here that we encounter Mordecai and Haman, two men who couldn’t be more different. This chapter, then, becomes a living portrait of James 4:6, which tells us that ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’
Mordecai’s humility is a quiet beacon amidst the palace intrigue, in stark contrast to Haman’s overt pride and ambition. In a twist that can only be divine, Haman finds himself compelled to honor Mordecai, the very man he was plotting to destroy. It’s as if God Himself is emphasizing the point: humility doesn’t go unnoticed in His kingdom; it’s cradled in His grace.
This lavish grace, showered upon the humble, beckons us to step away from the world’s shallow measures of success. As C.S. Lewis so aptly said, “True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.” Our worth isn’t determined by public recognition or social media validation; it’s deeply anchored in God’s love and acknowledgment, which are the only affirmations that truly count.
As we spend time this week unpacking the rich lessons from Esther Chapter 6, let’s hold in our hearts the comforting truth that humility paves the way for God’s grace. It’s an assurance that as we take steps—however small—toward humility, we’re enveloped in a divine love that never falters and never fails.
This Week’s Challenge
This week, make it a point to be mindful of your humble actions. It might be allowing someone else to have the final say in a discussion, letting another driver have that prime parking spot, or simply being present for a friend or family member without offering advice.
This Week’s Bible Verse
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Week at a Glance
TUESDAY:
Watch this week’s video at Time-Warp Wife or on Youtube (subscribe while you’re there)
Print off this week’s Bible verse at Time-Warp Wife.
Read Esther Chapter 6.
Check in on the community at: facebook.com/groups/biblestudies. While you are there, maybe you could drop in a friendly message wishing others a blessed week, or share a prayer for the week ahead.
WEDNESDAY:
Spend time prayerfully considering this chapter. In a separate journal answer any or all of these questions as you immerse yourself in the text:
What is the main story or message of the chapter?
This question is designed to help you understand the broader narrative or teachings of the chapter.
Who are the key characters involved, and how do they contribute to the story?
Understanding characters and their roles can shed light on the events in the story.
What personal reflections do you have after reading this chapter?
This question gives you an opportunity to connect the passage with your own life.
How do you interpret the main message or moral of this chapter?
This question invites you to express your own interpretations and perspective as the Spirit guides you.
Are there any specific passages that stood out to you? Why?
Focusing on specific lines can help you gain a deeper understanding of the text.
How might this chapter change your thinking or behavior?
This encourages you to think about the practical application of the Bible’s teachings in your day-to-day life.
THURSDAY:
Work on the questions in your study guide.
Share your reflections in the Facebook group.
Respond to at least one other person’s post in the group to encourage others.
FRIDAY:
Visit Time-Warp Wife to read Darlene’s closing thoughts on the chapter.
Reflect on Darlene’s insights and how they align with or enhance your understanding of the week’s study.
Share your own closing thoughts or responses to Darlene’s reflections in the Facebook group.
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