Esther‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬ — Now there was in the citadel of Susa a Jew of the tribe of Benjamin, named Mordecai son of Jair, the son of Shimei, the son of Kish, who had been carried into exile from Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, among those taken captive with Jehoiachin king of Judah. Mordecai had a cousin named Hadassah, whom he had brought up because she had neither father nor mother. This young woman, who was also known as Esther, had a lovely figure and was beautiful. Mordecai had taken her as his own daughter when her father and mother died.

This week we will be sharing the story of Esther. This is the only book in the Bible that does not mention God. We invite you to look for God throughout the week. 

The story takes place with a pagan leader, King Ahasuerus reigning over Persia. As you read in today’s verses, Esther and her cousin Mordecai were Jewish. The King is looking for a new wife after he banishes Queen Vashti, and Esther is in the running. Mordecai doesn’t want Esther to reveal that she is Jewish as we read in ‭‭Esther‬ ‭2‬:‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬ — Esther had not revealed her nationality and family background, because Mordecai had forbidden her to do so.

Where is God in today’s reading? I love that God uses Esther who was adopted by her cousin and watched over her. This reminds me of how God has adopted us and watches over you and me. Will you use this Testify Tuesday to share your adoption story to bring others to Christ Jesus?

Let’s pray. Dear God, thank You for adopting me into Your kingdom and giving me new life. Thank You for watching over me. I desire to be an Esther for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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