SCRIPTURE: Esther 1:1-9 

SHOW NOTES: As we begin this new season – A Crown with Purpose – it’s important to share some of the historical and cultural setting. “In those days King Ahasuerus sat on his royal throne in Susa, the citadel, in the third year of his reign he gave a feast for all his officials and servants. The army of Persia and Media and the nobles and governors of the provinces were before him.” This is a powerful king who ruled over the largest kingdom (127 provinces) in the known world and yet he wanted more. 

The book of Esther is included in the Old Testament even though some scholars have debated and argued against this book’s inclusion. God’s name is not mentioned anywhere in the book and yet as faithful students of the Word of God pour over these chapters and verses; they see God’s fingerprints in the story. We will see very clearly that the big theme of this book is the providence of God. God is operating “behind the scenes” to accomplish His purposes and to preserve His people. His providence is all inclusive. No person or detail of life escapes God’s control. 

SONG: "Our God Is In Control" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Xj3jf-8Sj8