When we read stories in Scripture of great people like Ezra who accomplished incredible things for God, it’s so easy for us to put them on a pedestal and forget who the true Hero of the story is. But Ezra wouldn’t have accepted that. He knew that were it not for the good hand of God in his life, he and his fellow Jews would still be living in Babylon under captivity—without a return to Jerusalem, without a rebuilt Temple, and without a spiritual revival. Ezra gave glory where glory was due . . . will you?
Scandals abound in a drama cast in the ancient Persian Empire. In the midst of political intrigue and betrayal, a beautiful orphan girl suddenly becomes the leading character, as God’s providence rescues His people from certain death. At first glance, Esther is the heroine and Mordecai the master manipulator. Take a closer look, however, and you’ll discover that behind the scenes, God is pulling the strings as His sovereign providence unfolds.