Bible verses for children
A chance to speak up.
Esther 4:14
For if you remain silent now, then relief and deliverance will come to the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Who knows if you haven’t come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”
Esther 4:14 · World English Bible Classic (WEB)
In simple words
What does this verse mean?
Mordecai asks Esther whether becoming queen has brought her an opportunity to help her people. “Who knows” is a question, not a report of a direct promise from God. Esther must think about a dangerous situation, ask for support and decide how to speak.
If someone is being excluded, you might tell a teacher what you have noticed. Speaking up can mean asking a safe adult to act; it does not mean taking on danger by yourself.
Talk about it
Who could help you speak up when another person needs support?
An example from the Bible
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A little more to explore
Bible context & readings +
A royal order threatens the Jewish people. In Esther 4, approaching the king without being summoned could cost Esther her life. She asks her people to fast before she goes. Read her preparation and the beginning of her approach in Esther 5 alongside Mordecai’s words.
Full readings at eBible.org · World English Bible Classic. Read with an adult.A simple prayer +
God, help us notice when others need help and find wise, supported ways to speak. Amen.
A suggested prayer, written for this guide.
