Thou Art Come … for Such a Time as This

Many events in the book of Esther might seem like luck or coincidence. How else do you explain how an orphaned Jewish girl became the queen of Persia at just the right time to save her people from slaughter? What are the chances that Esther’s cousin Mordecai would happen to overhear a plot to assassinate the king? Were these coincidences, or were they part of a divine plan? Elder Ronald A. Rasband noted: “What may appear to be a random chance is, in fact, overseen by a loving Father in Heaven. … The Lord is in the small details of our lives” (“By Divine Design,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2017, 56). We might not always recognize the Lord’s influence in these “small details.” But we learn from Esther’s experience that He can guide our path and prepare us “for such a time” (Esther 4:14) when we can be instruments in His hands to fulfill His purposes.1

As you read the story of Esther, ponder how this statement applies to her. Look for ways the Lord made it possible for her to save the Jews (see, for example, Esther 2:21–23; 3:10–14; 4:14–16). Then ponder how He has given you opportunities to bless others. What are some circumstances or relationships that He has guided you to “for such a time as this”? (Esther 4:14). If you have a patriarchal blessing, consider reading it to learn more about the work the Lord has for you to do. What can you do to accomplish this work?4

In the book of Esther, we learn from the faithfulness of Esther and Mordecai, but we also learn from the pride and anger of Haman. As you read Esther 3; 5:9–14, note Haman’s feelings, words, and actions. What do they reveal about him and his motivations? What consequences did he face? (see Esther 7). Reading about Haman may prompt you to evaluate what motivates your feelings and actions. Are you inspired to make any changes? How can you turn to Heavenly Father for help?2

See also Proverbs 16:32; Alma 5:28.2

Notice why Esther and the rest of the Jews decided to fast (see Esther 3:13; 4:1–3, 10–17). How did fasting bless them? (see Esther 5:2–3; 8:11–12). Why does the Lord ask us to fast? (see Topics and Questions, “Fasting and Fast Offerings,” Gospel Library). Consider how you can make fasting a greater blessing in your life.4

See also Isaiah 58:6–12; “Fasting: Young Single Adult Ward, Amanda” (video), ChurchofJesusChrist.org.1

When Mordecai and Esther stood up for their beliefs and their people, they put their lives at risk. Our choices might have less severe consequences, but doing the right thing can still require courage. What do you learn from Esther 3:1–4; 4:10–17 about having courage to do the right thing? Note the different consequences Mordecai and Esther experienced after showing courage (see Esther 3:5–11; 5:1–4). What did Esther and Mordecai need to know about God to make the choices they made?4

Esther’s courage led to “a day of gladness” (see Esther 9:17–19). How has Christlike courage given you “a day of gladness”?1

You might feel inspired to use Esther 2:7 to teach your children about helping family members in need, as Mordecai did for Esther. You could read the verse together or summarize it in your own words. Then you and your children could think of family members who might need your help. Make a plan to help them.1

The examples of Esther and Mordecai can help your children understand that bravery means doing what is right even when you are afraid. Consider writing the phrases Mordecai was brave when he … and Esther was brave when she … . As you learn the story of Esther together, your children could suggest ways to finish the sentences. You could read Esther 3:1–11; 4:10–17 or “Queen Esther” (in Old Testament Stories, 166–70) or look at the pictures in this outline. Then write I will be brave by … , and invite your children to list things Heavenly Father wants them to do that require courage. A song about courage, such as “Dare to Do Right” (Children’s Songbook, 158), could help. 2:45Queen Esther2

You could also learn about times when Jesus Christ was brave—for example, when He suffered for our sins in Gethsemane and on the cross (see Matthew 26:36–39; 27:33–35). Ask your children to share a time when they were brave, and share your own experiences as well.2

Reading Esther 4:1–3, 10–17 could help you teach your children about fasting. Why did Esther and the Jews fast? Tell your children why you fast. You could also ask them how they would explain fasting to a friend who has never done it before. How could we help our friends understand the blessings that come from fasting?1

Help your children understand that when Esther was afraid, Mordecai encouraged her by explaining that the Lord had helped her become the queen “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14). What did Mordecai mean by this? Talk with each other about how Esther was an instrument for the Lord. How can we be instruments for the Lord?1