HELEN SANDERS
2-3-2026
LEAVING HADASSAH BEHIND

As we look at the book of Esther, we see a young Jewish girl named Hadassah, which means myrtle. She had been orphaned, having lost both her father and mother. Her cousin, Mordecai, raised Hadassah as his own daughter. We do not know how old Mordecai was, but he was old enough to take on this responsibility.

As a Jewish girl, she was taught the things of God, and as most young girls, I am sure she was hoping to marry a Jewish young man.

One day her life changed completely. The king had divorced his wife, the queen, and he had his servants search for a new wife among the fair young virgins from his kingdom. This search included the exiled Jews, and all the other women. Beautiful, virtuous Hadassah was one chosen from many others.

Mordecai told her to hide her Jewish identity, and changed her name to Esther which means “star.” which she accepted obediently. Esther was separated from Mordecai while she was in the purification process to come before the king and become the next queen.

Just think about this, my friend. She had lost so much, and now her identity. But being as beautiful inside as she was outside, she knew that God was with her. She listened to Mordecai’s instructions. She had been brought up knowing who she was, a Jew, but now a hidden one awaiting God’s plan for her. Little did she know at the time that God was going to use her to save her people. She was obedient, knowing that it might cost her life.

The story of Esther shows us that our plans for life may not necessarily be the plans that God has for us. As we submit to God’s plan, we become vessels in his hands used to accomplish His purpose and not ours. Through a series of events, Esther saved her people.

You may be the one in your family that saves your family by submitting to God’s plan and not your own. God’s plan may be difficult, but it is always the best plan. Do not fear the unknown as God leads you. He will guide you as you yield to it.

Esther had to leave Hadassah behind to complete God’s plan of being an Esther. What is it that God wants you to give up, to complete his plan for you?