Esther 1–2: Queen Vashti is deposed, and Esther is chosen to become queen.
I checked rsc.byu.edu and josephsmithpapers.org for a scholarly source specifically discussing Esther 1-2. Since a dedicated article on these specific chapters from those preferred sources was not readily available through my search, I will refer to the official Come Follow Me manual for the Old Testament 2026, which provides the thematic context for this week's study of the book of Esther.
The Come Follow Me manual introduces the book of Esther by highlighting that it teaches about individuals becoming instruments in God's hands through courage and faith, even in difficult circumstances. This introductory statement sets the stage for understanding the events in Esther 1-2, where Queen Vashti is deposed, and Esther is chosen through a seemingly worldly process to become queen, positioning her for future divine intervention. This manual is published by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and serves as the official guide for scripture study. (Source: "Come Follow Me for Home and Church: Old Testament 2026," The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/come-follow-me-for-home-and-church-old-testament-2026/33)
What aspects of Esther's selection as queen, as described in Esther 1-2, might have prepared her for the courageous acts she would later undertake to save her people?
Considering today's intention to diligently listen for spiritual promptings and act on the guidance received, how might the seemingly circumstantial events of Esther 1-2 encourage us to trust that God can prepare us for His purposes, even through experiences we don't immediately recognize as spiritual promptings?
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Two-week check-in: it's been 14 days since this practice started. Is the daily morning/evening rhythm sustainable, or should content be trimmed before the practice gets abandoned? Raise this with Claude in chat.