Praise and Worship in Esther

Praise in Esther

• His sovereign control of events (2:5-8, 17, 22; 4:14; 5:1-3; 6:1; 8:8)
• His involvement in history, though his actions often go unnoticed (4:13-14)
• Brave leaders who are willing to take great risks for god (4:16)
• His justice, ultimately rewarding the faithful and punishing the wicked (7:7–9:19).

Worship in Esther

The book of Esther reminds us that God’s people will ultimately triumph over their enemies. While most Christians do not usually see themselves as having enemies, Scripture makes it clear that we do. Notice how often the psalms of David mention the worshiper’s enemies and appeal to God for deliverance. Those who worship the Lord will always face opposition from those who do not.

The New Testament recognizes that our real enemy is Satan’s army of spiritual forces. Paul also speaks of those who are “enemies of the cross of Christ” (Philippians 3:18), and John refers to “antichrists” who used to be part of the Christian community but now oppose it (1 John 2:18). So it is in Esther’s emphasis on triumph over our enemies that we see the book’s connection to worship. Worship wages war against Satan’s forces of darkness and proclaims God’s victory over them. It declares that God is in control and those who oppose his ways are destined for defeat.

• God is sovereign; he controls the affairs of the world, including the events of our life (2:5-8, 17, 22; 4:14; 5:1-3; 6:1; 8:8).
• The Lord powerfully protects his people (4:13-17; 7:3-10; 9:1-5).
• Fasting can be a helpful way to focus our thoughts on God as we seek him (4:1-3).
• God will accomplish his purposes, whether or not we comply (4:13-14).
• God may appoint us to a unique position so that we may act on his behalf (4:14).
• Wherever God places us in life, we should work to please him, for he can use us anywhere to accomplish great things for his kingdom (4:14).
• Ceremonies help us to remember and celebrate God’s faithfulness to his people (8:17; 9:20-28).