God’s providence has been compared to an elaborate piece of embroidery. If you look at the underside, all you see are knots and tangles. But flipping it over reveals a beautiful and intentional design. Our earthly, limited view, means we are often looking only at the knots and tangles. The theme of providence once again pervades today’s passage. While Mordecai was sitting at the gate, he overheard two of the king’s officers plotting to murder the king (v. 21). This discovery was not merely a matter of happenstance; rather, God was clearly at work, directing the movement and conversation of every person involved. Mordecai sent the information to Esther immediately (v. 22). Even though she was now queen, the two still had an open line of communication. Esther passed the tip to the king, naming Mordecai as the source. When the report was investigated and found to be true, the two rogue officials were executed. Most importantly, all of this was recorded in the annals of the king. This verse (v. 23) is one of the most pivotal verses of the entire book because Mordecai—providentially—comes into the good graces of Xerxes. Ordinarily, an act of heroism would have been generously rewarded right away. Nothing was immediately done to honor Mordecai. At the time, Mordecai may have been disappointed. But we will see how these events were being orchestrated by God for His glory and the good of His people. We may sometimes believe we control our lives, that—with enough planning and wise decision-making—we can assure a positive outcome. Nothing could be further from the truth. While we make decisions and execute plans, God alone controls the outcomes. >> What decisions do you have before you today? As you reflect on next steps, remember that God is also at work and consider God’s providence in your life in the past. We can trust in God’s sovereignty and His power to work for His glory and your good.