Book excerpt: Dee Brestin entreats Sisters, we must treasure the two Bible books named after women (Esther and Ruth), for they are God's special gifts to us! Through Esther, I have heard my Heavenly Father say, Do you feel I am far away? I am here, I am not silent, and I am the God of surprises. Do you question your value in this world? I created you uniquely as a woman, and I long to use you mightily as I used Esther. Come, learn from her. Do you feel you have failed in this life? I am the God of second chances. Come, let Me give you hope. Controversy abounds in the Book of Esther! Was Vashti wrong to disobey her husband? Did the beauty contest Esther won involve a night in bed with the king? You will learn important principles of interpretation to guide you not only through Esther, but through all of Scripture. This guide is one of a series written by Dee especially with the interests of women, and the way they like to relate, in mind. Dee Brestin ministers to the hearts of women with her speaking and writing. Besides her many Bible study guides, she is the author of the bestsellers The Friendships of Women, The Friendships of Women Workbook, and We Are Sisters. She and her husband, Steve, are the parents of five children and live in Kearney, Nebraska Other Bible Study Guides by Dee: A Woman's Journey through Ruth, A Woman's Journey through Luke, The Joy of Women's Friendships, The Joy of Hospitality, The Joy of Eating Right, A woman of Value ( Proverbs), A woman of Insight (Ecclesiastes), A woman of Joy (1-3 John). Chariot Victor Publishing A Division of Cook Communications Women/Bible Study