1-3 Three days later Esther dressed in her royal robes and took up a position in the inner court of the palace in front of the king’s throne room. The king was on his throne facing the entrance. When he noticed Queen Esther standing in the court, he was pleased to see her; the king extended the gold scepter in his hand. Esther approached and touched the tip of the scepter. The king asked, “And what’s your desire, Queen Esther? What do you want? Ask and it’s yours—even if it’s half my kingdom!”

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message New Testament: Mass Market
The Message New Testament: Mass Market
Retail: $7.99
Our Price: $6.99
Save: $1.00 (13%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
Pause - The Message//REMIX: A Daily Reading Bible - eBook
Pause - The Message//REMIX: A Daily Reading Bible - eBook
Retail: $14.99
Our Price: $9.69
Save: $5.30 (35%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
Message Slimline Bible--soft leather-look, brown/tan
Message Slimline Bible--soft leather-look, brown/tan
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $13.99
Save: $26.00 (65%)
3.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message Personal-Size Bible--soft leather-look, saddle tan
The Message Personal-Size Bible--soft leather-look, saddle tan
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $32.99
Save: $7.00 (18%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars