This dramatic narrative shows how Jehovah saves his people from the evil designs of their enemies, even though his servants are widely dispersed throughout a vast empire. Today, that knowledge is indeed faith-strengthening to Jehovah’s people, who are rendering sacred service to him in 235 lands. Moreover, the characters portrayed in the book of Esther provide examples for us to imitate and others that we want to avoid. Indeed, “the word of God is alive and exerts power.”​—Hebrews 4:12.

Lessons for Us:

2:10, 20; 4:12-16. Esther accepted direction and counsel from a mature worshipper of Jehovah. We are wise to “be obedient to those who are taking the lead among [us] and be submissive.”​—Hebrews 13:17.

2:11; 4:5. We should ‘keep an eye, not in personal interest upon just our own matters, but also in personal interest upon those of the others.’​—Philippians 2:4.

2:15. Esther showed modesty and self-control by not requesting additional jewelry or finer clothing than what was provided by Hegai. It was “the secret person of the heart in the incorruptible apparel of the quiet and mild spirit” that won Esther the king’s favor.​—1 Peter 3:4.

2:21-23. Esther and Mordecai were good examples of “subjection to the superior authorities.”​—Romans 13:1.

3:4. In some situations, it may be prudent to remain silent about our identity, as Esther was about hers. However, when it comes to taking a stand on important issues, such as Jehovah’s sovereignty and our integrity, we must not be afraid to make known that we are Jehovah’s Witnesses.

4:3. When faced with trials, we should prayerfully turn to Jehovah for strength and wisdom.

4:6-8. Mordecai sought a legal solution to the threat created by Haman’s conspiracy.​—Philippians 1:7.

4:14. Mordecai’s confidence in Jehovah was exemplary.

4:16. With full reliance on Jehovah, Esther faithfully and courageously faced a situation that could have resulted in her death. It is vital that we learn to rely on Jehovah and not on ourselves.

5:6-8. In order to win the goodwill of Ahasuerus, Esther invited him to a second banquet. She acted with prudence, as we should.​—Proverbs 14:15.

Lessons for Us:

6:6-10. “Pride is before a crash, and a haughty spirit before stumbling.”​—Proverbs 16:18.

7:3, 4. Do we courageously identify ourselves as Jehovah’s Witnesses, even though doing so may mean persecution?

8:3-6. We can and should appeal to governmental authorities and judicial courts for protection from enemies.

8:5. Esther tactfully did not mention the king’s responsibility in the decree designed to annihilate her people. Similarly, we need to be tactful when giving a witness to high officials.

9:22. We should not forget the poor among us.​—Galatians 2:10.

Jehovah Will Provide “Relief and Deliverance”

Mordecai alludes to God’s purpose in Esther’s attaining royal dignity. When threatened, the Jews fast and pray for help. The queen appears before the king uninvited and is favorably received each time. The king cannot fall asleep precisely on the critical night. Indeed, the book of Esther is about Jehovah’s maneuvering of events for the benefit of his people.

The exciting account of Esther is of particular encouragement to us living in “the time of the end.” (Daniel 12:4) “In the final part of the days,” or in the final part of the time of the end, Gog of Magog​—Satan the Devil—​will make an all-out attack on Jehovah’s people. His aim will be nothing less than extermination of true worshippers. But as in Esther’s day, Jehovah will provide “relief and deliverance” for his worshippers.​—Ezekiel 38:16-23; Esther 4:14.