One of the most curious things about the book of Esther is not what it says; it’s in what (or who) is missing. God’s name never appears. Not once. No “Thus says the Lord,” no burning bush, no parted sea, no prophet louding proclaiming “the word of the Lord.” On the surface, the book of Esther looks like nothing more than one more play about politics, palace drama, and human bravery.
And yet, look closer. God is everywhere. God’s fingers write the story, and his presence permeates every part of it … even though he never directly writes his own name into it.
Esther “just happens” to be chosen as queen.
Mordecai “just happens” to overhear a plot to kill the king.
The king “just happens” to have a sleepless night and asks for the royal records to be read to him, discovering Mordecai’s loyalty.
Haman’s plans “just happen” to collapse at the perfect moment.
Mere coincidence? Or God’s providence?
Even when God’s name is absent, his hand is present, and his presence is palpable. Esther teaches us that God’s silence doesn’t mean God’s absence. Esther’s story shows God at work behind the scenes, weaving redemption through the ordinary and the unexpected.
Most of us can relate. We don’t get burning bushes or angelic visitations. More often, we see God’s guidance in hindsight: in the friend who called at just the right time, in the closed door that nudged us toward a better path, in the everyday mercies we almost missed.
It’s easy to think faith means waiting for the dramatic. But Esther whispers: Pay attention. God is here and God is with you, even when all seems quiet.
Maybe today you’re in a season where God feels hidden. Your prayers echo back in silence. The story you’re living seems full of palace drama but lacking divine direction. Take heart—God’s hiddenness is not abandonment. He is present, active, and faithful, even when he seems hard to find.
Prayer: Lord, thank you that even when I can’t see you, you are at work. Open my eyes to notice your hidden fingerprints in my life, and give me faith to trust your care for me even when you seem silent. Amen.
