“God’s plans for us are better than our own” flashed before me on a church billboard as I arrived before sunrise at the airport en route to run the Disney Marathon. I laughed out loud as I reflected on how only five months earlier I had no thought of ever running a marathon. It never crossed my mind. No bucket list item nor life goal; it was never part of my plan. But God’s plans were not my own and were bigger and better than I could ever imagine.
Esther must have felt the same way. After bathing in oils and perfumes for a year, she was handpicked out of thousands of young virgins by the king himself to be his queen. She must have thought of her life of luxury ahead, living in the palace with servants and whatever material treasure she desired. It probably never crossed her mind that, one day, she would put her life on the line to save her people. Through the story of Esther we learn that God’s plans were beyond what she could have ever imagined. God’s plans were better than her own.
Sometimes life surprises us and we find ourselves in unexpected places and roles. But God has a reason for where you are now and plans for where you will be tomorrow, next week, and in the years to come. The key is to listen and look beyond ourselves to follow God’s path. Through this study, my hope is that we will be able to do just that by growing closer to God through the lessons and our online discussions. God will speak to you through the eyes of Esther and the lives of other characters you will meet along the way. Just login and see what God has planned. I know it will be bigger and better than you could ever imagine!
What is one goal you have for this study of Esther?
“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11 NRSV)
If you are interested in following online and would like to purchase a study guide, please contact Julie at info@julieosborne.com. I hope you join us on this journey. Your Esther moment awaits!