Esther's Courage
Esther became queen of Persia. When an official named Haman plotted to destroy the Jewish people, Esther bravely went to the king to ask for help, and her people were saved.
You will learn to...
- Retell how Queen Esther helped save her people.
- Understand that courage can mean speaking up for others.
- See how God worked behind the scenes.
Words to know
- Sceptre
- A special rod held by a king.
- Fast
- To go without food for a time to focus on praying.
- Purim
- A Jewish holiday celebrating how Esther's people were saved.
Read the full lesson (for older kids and grown-ups)
Esther was a young Jewish woman raised by her cousin Mordecai. She was chosen to become queen of the Persian king, Xerxes.
A powerful official named Haman hated Mordecai and tricked the king into making a law to destroy all the Jewish people. Mordecai asked Esther to go to the king for help, even though going to the king without being invited could cost her life. Mordecai said, 'Who knows if you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?'
Esther asked her people to fast with her for three days. Then she bravely went to the king, who held out his golden sceptre to welcome her. At a banquet, Esther told the king about Haman's plan. The king allowed the Jewish people to defend themselves, and they were saved. The Jewish festival of Purim remembers this day.
God's name isn't mentioned in the book of Esther, but we can see God working behind the scenes. Esther used her position to help others even though it was risky. Courage sometimes means speaking up.
Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid or scared of them; for Yahweh your God himself is who goes with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you.”
Family conversation starters
- Why was it risky for Esther to go to the king?
- What does it look like to stand up for someone at school?
Main people: Esther · Topics: Courage, Standing up for others, God's timing · Review status: awaiting theological review