When King Ahasuerus elevates Haman above all other Persian officials, Mordecai refuses to bow before Haman, likely due to religious realities. In fury, Haman begins to plot to destroy not only Mordecai but the entire people of God to which Mordecai belongs. At this point, however, Haman’s fury does not overwhelm him. He patiently casts lots to find just the right date for his evil plan. When the lot lands favorably, he goes before King Ahasuerus and deceptively convinces the King. With the King’s signet ring in hand, Haman issues an edict that calls for the utter destruction of God’s people on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month. Though the chapter ends with a cliffhanger, God continues to work behind the scenes for His people’s good.

Rev. Chris Hull, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church and Student Center in Macomb, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Esther 3:1-15.

"For Such a Time As This” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Esther. Although God is never explicitly named in the book of Esther, He remains the One who directs all the events of the book. Happenings that seem coincidence, chance, or luck are truly God at work. He puts Mordecai and Esther in the right places and moments to work through them to deliver His people.