Why Study Esther, Part 2

Hope City Church

Why Study Esther, Part 2

June 18, 2024 • Pastor Holly Smith • John 5:39, Psalm 33:11, Psalm 103:19, Proverbs 16:9, Esther

The providence of God is a critical theme that appears in the book of Esther. As we study this book with Jesus at the center of our understanding of it, it's important to pause and understand what providence means.

Be sure to have your Bible, a pen, and paper as you sit down to listen to this session.

Here are the journaling prompts:

1. In what circumstances or season of life did you truly grasp the glory of the gospel of Jesus Christ? How did this understanding and revelation radically alter your life?

2. Look up the word "providence" in the dictionary and write down its definition.

3. Read the following verses and write down what you learn about the providence of God.

Psalm 33:11; Psalm 1013:19; Proverbs 16:9, 33; Proverbs 21:1; Jeremiah 23:23-24; Matthew 10:29-31; Romans 8:28

4. Look back at the dictionary definition of God's providence, the corresponding verses, and what you've heard from the Heidelberg Catechism. Write down a definition of God's providence in your own words.

5. What would your life look like if you saw everything you walk through as being upheld by His hand?

_____

MEMORY VERSE: PSALMS 103:19

"The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all."

Week One Recap

June 22, 2024 • Pastor Holly Smith • Esther 5—10

No audio devotional today! Use this weekend to review what you've learned or catch up on your preliminary work for the book of Esther. Take time to prepare your heart. Set yourself up for Bible study this week. Keep your Bible, notebook, pen, and any other items you use in one place where you can find them easily. Join the Esther Devotional Group in the Hope City RI app! Whether you're keeping up with a lesson each day or are taking your time with it, it's a great spot to share what you're learning and encourage others as they're studying this book. Study with excitement and expectation, knowing that as you open the Word you are meeting with the God who created this world. There is nothing better than that gift! Journal prompt: 1. What did you learn about studying the Bible from this initial week of laying the foundation for the book of Esther? _____ MEMORY VERSE: PSALM 103:19 "The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all."

Unearthing Clues, Part 2

June 21, 2024 • Pastor Holly Smith • Esther 5—10

No audio devotional today! Today you'll continue your initial read-through of the book of Esther. This should take about 20-30 minutes. Read Esther 5 - 10 and write your initial notes, observations, and questions in your notebook. _____ MEMORY VERSE: PSALMS 103:19 "The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all."

Unearthing Clues, Part 1

June 20, 2024 • Pastor Holly Smith • Esther 1—4

Today we're walking through our contextual overview of the book of Esther and starting to read and take notes on the book. Be sure to have your Bible, a pen, and notebook as you sit down to listen to this session. Read Esther 1 - 4, Write any notes, observations, or questions that come to mind. _____ MEMORY VERSE: PSALMS 103:19 "The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all."