Is God Still Here?
FINDING ANSWERS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
December 28, 2025
Paul David Tripp
BSF Guest Contributor
There are moments in life that stop us in our tracks—a sudden loss, an unexpected diagnosis, a change we never saw coming. But more often, it’s not one big disaster that wears us down. It’s the steady pace of ordinary life—the endless to-do lists, the quiet disappointments, and the feeling that we’re always one step behind.
In those times, it’s natural to wonder: Is God still here? Does He see what’s happening? Why does He seem so quiet—especially now, when I need Him most?
The book of Esther gently reminds us that even when God seems silent, He is never absent. Behind every detail, He is working—quietly, faithfully, and powerfully—to bring about His plan for good.
When God Seems Silent
If you read the book of Esther, you may wonder—why in the world is this in the Bible? It is the one book of the Bible that does not mention God at all. Yes, you read that right: God’s name is not mentioned once in the book of Esther. So then how does a story with no mention of God end up in the Bible, a book that’s entirely about God’s story of redemption?
We’ve seen God’s presence clearly throughout the Exile & Return study. He spoke to Daniel through visions, guided Ezra with His own hand, and flattened Ezekiel with a glimpse of His glory. We’ve seen the way that He works. We’ve seen His love for His people. We’ve seen Him—again and again.
And now we don’t see Him. Why? What is going on?
Esther’s story teaches us that in those moments where God seems most absent, God is actually actively working.
Remember His Character
I think the absence of an explicit mention of God in Esther could be exactly why Esther is in the Bible. It’s about those moments in the history of God’s story and in our story where God does not seem anywhere to be found—where God seems absent.
The reality is that God’s work is all over Esther’s story, even if His name isn’t. In chapter 2, we learn that “many young women were brought to the citadel of Susa,” but it was Esther who won the king’s favor and the queen’s crown. When a plot to kill the king was hatched, Esther’s cousin Mordecai was the one to discover it. In chapter 5, Esther could have been executed for her boldness but instead was welcomed into the king’s presence.
We may think Esther is the story of a woman who gains power and changes the story. But it’s not that. Esther’s story teaches us that in those moments where God seems most absent, God is actually actively working.
He will never stop working until His work is complete.
When you can’t see the hand of God, you shouldn’t conclude that God isn’t at work—any more than you should conclude that the sun isn’t shining because you’re in your basement and you can’t see it.
He will never stop working until His work is complete.
Trust His Faithfulness
Maybe the drama of Esther is this: How will the people of God live when God doesn’t seem near? How do you live in those moments when God doesn’t seem near?
Listen, don’t measure your faith by your excitement on Sunday morning when you’re surrounded by people with their hands raised and you’re remembering the truths of the gospel.
The quality your faith emerges in those moments where none of that exists, where you’re alone, and where it seems like the heavens are closed and the promises of God don’t include you. When it seems like God has walked away.
These are moments when you have to do what Hebrews 11:6 says: You “must believe that he [God] exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” I’m not going to give way to unbelief in my Redeemer even in moments where I do not see His hand.
The power of the message of Esther is that God is not absent even in the moments where He seems absent.
His hand is steady, guiding unseen, writing redemption into the details of our everyday lives.
When crisis hits or when life feels too heavy, and it seems God has vanished, read Esther. In the steady strain of ordinary life, read Esther. It is a book preserved by God to confront the deepest of our questions and give us hope.
The book of Esther reminds us that even when God seems silent, He is never still. His hand is steady, guiding unseen, writing redemption into the details of our everyday lives.
About the Author
Dr. Paul David Tripp is a pastor, an international event speaker, and a best-selling and award-winning author. With more than 30 books and video series on Christian living, Paul’s driving passion is to connect the transforming power of Jesus Christ to everyday life. Paul launched his own ministry in 2006. He lives in Philadelphia and is hopelessly in love with his wife of more than 50 years, Luella. They have four grown children and six grandchildren.
This article was adapted with permission from a post originally published on paultripp.com.
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Thank you for this encouragement. I needed it today.🛡️
Thank you for this timely article. Four months ago, my 25-year-old daughter decided she needed “space” from me. My heart is broken. Like Esther and Mordecai, I can’t see what God is doing in the moment; however, I’m sure that God’s plan is better than mine. I trust Him for the best possible outcome according to His will. He is faithful and good. I will not give up praying.
I’m on my 13th year of studying with BSF. What a life changer! I couldn’t imagine not being rooted in Christ during the storms of this life.
My daughter did a similar thing when she was 25 years old. I know how that feels. I pray for comfort for you. May God help us both to cope with this.
A good inspiration article. It had broadened my thinking and encouraged me to see God’s presence in all situations I face.
It was a beautiful and uplifting message .praise the Lord for our Lord and His love
This blog helped me to remember that GOD’s goodness is
magnified through his perfect redemptive power of the impossible.
Sammie- BSF is the tool GOD used to change my life, I am forever Grateful-He made me a Forever in this Journey of life a Student of His Word-That JESUS was my Perfect Sacrificial Lamb that enabled me to have a Relationship with GOD-That The Holy Spirit was my Helper to Keep me in God’s Providential Way & that GOD was Transforming me to be more like JESUS. GOD’S PERFECT REDEMPTION STORY redeeming mankind.
Thank you so much for the Word of God that encourages me to keep trusting Him even when i don’t seem to see Him in the picture. God bless you.
I have only just started BSF just 2 lessons in and I am beyond excited for 2026. I know God has a lot in store in this coming year that will draw me closer to him each day. It is so fulfilling to study with a group of men around my same age. God bless and thank you for the support this ministry offers.
awesome assurance of God working behind the scenes. Emmanuel, God with us even in the silence. Amen.
I love studying with BSF. It is a great in depth study of God’s word. BSF also exposes you to other resource.
Great encouragement and teaching. Have been passing through a tough moment. Am encouraged to know God is very close not far not absent
I will keep trusting and believing in Him
It is an excellent review of the book Esther. I really enjoyed pastor Tripps comment. Praise God.
What an amazing reminder of our Gods faithfulness, even when we can’t see Him.
Thank you
Thank you for the reminder of the various ways that God shows that He is still with us. May my eyes be open to see His work in the big and the small ways He reveals himself.
I live in the beautiful state of Montana and when God seems quiet all I have to do is look at the majestic mountains surrounding my house and know of His wonderful works! Praise the Lord! Thank you for the wonderful articles.
My question, “Is God there and working in my life?” I don’t see or feel Him there, but I know He is there through my Christian faith. I have had some health issues since 2023 and they are not getting better. My faith is tested every day through the weakness in my body. Then came the book of Esther and her story. Even though God is not mentioned in the book, He is totally visible and active. I don’t see God working in my life probably because I am blinded by my problems. I don’t need to see God active I just need to know He is there and will act in His time. My prayer is that when my faith starts to falter, I look back at Esther and trust God that He will make all things right in His time.
The article on Esther is what I need right now. The world is getting crazy. This article reminds me that He’s still on his throne.
Despite whether we choose to mention God’s name, He is good!
God is equally as evident in the account of Esther as he is in any other book of the Bible. His presence is tangible in every detail — from Mordecai’s wise guidance (don’t reveal that you are a Jew), to the king’s sleepless night (finding that Mordecai should be honored). Impeccable timing. Brilliant yet humble dialogue. All lined up perfectly in order to preserve the Messianic lineage. God is present in every breath of this Book. Every prayer poured out to God with growling stomachs. Every miracle that led up to the king extending his scepter to a trembling young queen. So much God. The absence of his name is unnoticed because the reality of his presence is felt so
strongly. I’m struck by the familial relationship Esther and Mordecai had with God, as if to say, “Of course, God was present!” He is. He was. He always will be in every detail.
Dr. Paul David Tripp you are an encouragement. Indeed God is working in my life even during the silent times.
Your book “Everyday Gospel- Christmas Devotional has been a blessing to me from December 1 to December 25.
May God Bless you abundantly
i spoke to a bible scholar about the Gods name not mentioned and read another scholars’ opinion. both of whom i respect.
One said , God name is mentioned 5 times in Hebrew code , and hat this can be seen in the Hebrew language bible
your thoughts please
blessings
nick
I love the book of Esther and will share this commentary with a friend who really needs this message.
Thank you.
Yes, indeed…have KNOWN and FELT that for years and at 89…
“God does INDEED write my agenda!” I believe that and have
experienced it and live by it. Praise God!
Thanks
I needed to hear that because, many time I wander where is He as
I going through. What gets me encouraged just reading His word
And remembering what He has done in the past.
I am a first timer and this study has blessed me. This contribution from Paul Tripp challenged me to see God moving in dark times.
Thank you, Paul for your words of insight.
Kathy
BSF learner
Thank you for the soul searching and eye opener just knowing that God is omnipresent and in control is something that is very comforting in the midst of a serious challenge. Thank you once again
I am facing a disturbing disappointment filled with worry and doubt. And I am realising I slowly getting scared. This article just boosted my confidence and gave me a warm comfort that God is at work when He seems to be silent.
This year’s study is AWESOME!
God is in the background, orchestrating events in our lives on a daily basis, and WOW how He is glorified!
I am reminded how He has worked in my life, how He has carried me this far, and I am grateful.
Thank you, BSF.
Yes, God is almost invisible in Esther. But both Esther and Mordecai know him and his works. It is therefore only in the prayers by Mordecai (Ch4:8 “… Lord God, King, God of Abraham”), and Esthers (Ch4:14 and 4:29 – 30 “…Lord, God of Abraham, O God”), that God is mentioned.
God is truly at work in the details of our lives, even when we cannot see it. I have seen God through the pain of divorce and the joy of remarriage. I have encountered His grace when He used my pain to heal others’ marriages. We must not forget his quiet work in us.
Reminds me of the song by Babbie Mason … Trust His heart ❤️
Loved this beautiful reminder hidden in the book of Esther that God is always in the details even when we might not see or feel him near
Thank you
Right on time.
It’s great to be reminded that God’s present is always there. We are creatures with visual and sensory stimulants about us. We negate the silence of presence and power of the Lord. Good reminder.
I look back now on periods in my life when I was stuck in my crisis wondering if God was turning his back on me. Now I realize that he was working behind the scenes, teaching me and preparing me for things to come. God is truly trustworthy, merciful and good.
The story of Esther absolutely reveals the goodness of God and how His hand is in every detail of our lives. God guides us throughout life but sometimes his work in our lives is silent. This is where faith and trust show our dependence on God. I’m so glad this book was included in the Bible to show how resourceful and attentive our God is in our lives, whether we see Him working or not.
This was so helpful to read today. I am a fan of Paul David Tripp.
I had not thought about why God’s name was not mentioned in
Esther and yet her book is contained in the Bible. Mr. Tripp’s explanation
was both thought provoking and encouraging to know that God is still working in my life. Just a kind reminder that lets me know I have not been forgotten. Thank you.
I have read Paul Tripps devotional New Morning Mercies for many years. I enjoy the challenges he presents as well as the wonderful message of hope and grace. This message on Esther did not disappoint at all , Thank you for including it in your blog
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on Esther. I am enjoying the study in BSF on Thursday evenings when our group meets. God is always working in our lives and I know He is working in my life.
Excellent, Encouraging, Truth. We are never, ever left alone.
Due to unexpected circumstances, trusting Jesus certainly is aware of our situation. Praying/waiting for his return gives us hope/guidance for the future.
God is in control. A great reminder.
I am always learning more.
Love Paul David Tripp. Thanks for connecting our study so meaningfully.
Amen a very timely message for me ~ He will never stop working until His work is complete!
Just what I needed to hear at a time when I am walking through a a valley of my own and can not see God with me.
This study of Esther is crucial to our Christian journey. It’s definitely the reminder that God is with us & for His people no matter how silent He may seem. Praise God for His faithfulness!
I needed to hear that God is at work even when I didn’t see it. Especially today.
Beautiful!
Hallelujah to the omnipresent, omnipotent, ever-working God!
Thank You Sir, for your words on this book of Esther. Of course!!! God’s presence and hand and guiding was all throughout this part of the Jewish People’s lives. God put all of this in place…. Esther orphaned, Mordecai raising her…. To protect His People, from their enemies. Only God could have done that. Again, Thank You Sir, for reminding us…. Your contribution has helped me, with this book and story of Esther.
I’m so thankful for this remind on Esther’s scripture, I’ve always wondered why am I not getting answers on my prayers I concluded that God is not hearing me, He’s far away from me but now I know He’s not 🙏🙏
The article on Esther answers the question that I have always had: “Why does it seem that God is quiet & not answering my prayers when I’m facing challenges & tribulations?” Now I know he is working behind the scenes and He causes all things to work together for good.
Sooo good! Thank you P.D.Tripp!
From the piece above, “He will never stop working until His work is complete.”
Ephesians 2:10 “ For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
A reminder that He is continually working on us and is with us until His work is complete. 🙂
This message came to me timely Just what I needed reminded of.
Great encouragement especially for those like my daughter who is questioning God’s goodness and care after being without a job for over a year. God is still at work!
Thank you, very encouraging.
We need to remember God is always at work taking care of the details
and has our best interest in mind.
I am very grateful for BSF. I have truly seen God’s hand in my life. Yes, there are times when God seems far away, but like the Footprints story, I have learned that those are the moments when He was silently carrying us on His shoulders.
In my life, I am now in a stage where I feel God very present. Together with my husband, we are pressing on in seeking the Lord.
“Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near.” Isaiah 55:6
Thank you for the wonderful message about God working silently.
Thank you for making the connection between Esthers story and mine,
I never saw this before. When we can’t see God’s hand, I guess we need to trust God’s heart and character. I want to remember this in the daily grind. Just as Esther had to trust and daily submit herself, including her unknown future, to God. So do we.
This has been a great helpful read. It exactly talks about my exact situation. I can’t seem to see God. He has been silent for 15 years. It feels like He is sleeping on me and making life happen for the rest of the world. This read has just encouraged me and given me new perspective. And I am loving my name.
Jewish people still celebrate Esther every year on Purim, Purim is celebrated on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar, which typically falls in February or March.
Story: Queen Esther and Mordecai’s courage thwarted Haman’s evil plot to destroy the Jews, leading to their salvation.
Jewish people celebrate Esther on Purim, Purim is celebrated on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar, which typically falls in February or March.
Purim” the Jewish feast that celebrates the work of Queen Esther. It commemorates the saving of the Jewish people from a decree of annihilation in ancient Persia, as told in the Book of Esther.
Story: Queen Esther and Mordecai’s courage thwarted Haman’s evil plot to destroy the Jews, leading to their salvation.
Purim is celebrated on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar, which typically falls in February or March.
I appreciate this blog so much. The encouragement is palpable. He is working even when we don’t see him working. Thank you Paul David Tripp.
Amen. What a great word of encouragement.
It is so beautiful when we see the work of the Lord. He never stop helping us. Praise the Lord 🙏
Great message, loved this book! I taught it several times in jails in Colorado.
Thank you for the wonderful and meaningful article mentioned above. Indeed, one of the key phase or encouragement is “He will never stop working until His work is complete.”
However, why didn’t Esther and/or Mordecai declared they are Jews – God chosen people, and remain quiet with the King. Is like, when we are asked to make our stand as Christian, I just kept silent our borned again in spirit status, (as Christ shared with Nicodemus) to unbelievers at that crucial moment.
A most reassuring article – reliable is God.
I’m thankful that God has been present in the silence of this year of Drs., cancer, tendonitis, loneliness, overwhelming with the reality of none making sense… yet q
Uoetly working out for us to have a wonderful
Fun
Warmed Christmas where there was no way or hope… He, once again work it all out in spite of our lacks.
He sure is strongest where we are the weakest… clearing the dark grayest clouds… How He does it? I don’t know the details, but I see the results.
Glory to God!
Amen and thank you for the reminder that I needed today
Wonderful article! God is always with us!
Esther is a wonderful encouragement to me. As Paul Tripp wrote. “Behind every detail, He is working – quietly, faithfully, and powerfully – to bring about His plan for good. I was particularly encouraged when doing the BSF study on chapter 4. The question was asked. “what prepared Esther in her faith to confront the King?’” Obviously, the relationship she had with her cousin, Mordecai who raised her like a daughter, was probably important in her training and growth in faith. In line with the theme of the book, God does not waste any detail from our lives. Her response to life’s battles including becoming an orphan,(Esther 2:7) I am sure this event would have helped to shape her faith. Not a lot is said in the BSF notes or any commentaries about the struggle becoming an orphan would have imposed. Like Joseph in Genesis 50 (God meant it for Good) and Romans 8:28, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the Good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.”
Thank you, immensely, for this today! It has been hard the last couple of weeks, wondering if I should stop BSF due to health reasons. You made me go back and pick up where I left off in Esther. Please pray that I leave all my cares with the Lord, and continue His mission for my life.
I needed to hear this. I feel at times that God has too many people to help so I. Ant think that I am that important. I know He is there always but it is easy to feel alone and discouraged at times. Thank you for the inspiration to keep reading Esther always…not just for BSF.
The study of Esther in BSF has been so meaningful in that it reminds me of God’s presence at all times and His plan for us – and although we have free will, He will make sure we’re in the right place at the right time. God is so good!
I am really connecting to these daily devotions. Thank you for reminding me….God is Faithful! God is Working! Always!
This is exactly what I needed to read today. Blessings
What a powerful and inspiring message to me. after going through the book of Esther, I have seen in my life when I didn’t think that God wasn’t listening to my prayers. But, oh how wrong I was, God pulled me though a chronic illness and I have no doubt him since. Thank you, Dr Paul David Tripp, for the great message.
It’s now very clear that God is Emanuel (God is with us all the time 24/7) forever.
Esther’s is one of my favorite stories in the Bible. It depicts Hope which helps to build our Faith. I could relate with Esther’s situation, having moved from another country myself. I have experienced moments when ONLY GOD can take the glory in my life. Those are the moments that help build my faith. I look back and remind myself that if He saw me through then, as long as I remain with and continue to trust Him , He will complete what is left. I thank God for His word, and for His faithfulness.
Awesome!!!
Do not measure your FAITH by your excitement on a Sunday morning service…
Earnestly seek God
That’s writing was inspirational to affirm my belief even when I don’t know what’s happening Gods hand is there.
Very encouraging and timely reminder that God still works even when we don’t see it to accomplish His purposes.Thus He can be fully trusted.
Thank you for this insight.
Best to you in 2026.
I’m in a season of waiting thank you so much 💗 for the reminder of what Esther ‘s Story teaches us that in those moments where God seems most absent God is actually actively working.
This explains a lot about the inclusion of the book of Esther. I especially will remember the comment, “Listen, don’t measure your faith by your excitement on Sunday morning when you’re surrounded by people with their hands raised and you’re remembering the truths of the gospel.”
God is Immanuel. He is with us, and He is working. What a comfort and joy!
Am happy to be a part of this prayers
It seems the author sees the doubts in my heart.
Lately, I can’t ask from God anymore, I feel ,what is there to ask again?
When I hear of testimonies I tell myself, mine wouldn’t come.
The scriptures sure gives me encouragement some times
Pray for me am so alone I have suffered so much lost, 2 sisters my mum and my 9 month Yr old son.
At the moment am in so much debt
Pray for me
At the moment am in so much debt
Thank you for the Blog. The book of Esther teaches me to be patient, never give up and to wait on the Lord for His Will and Time. I know that God is Faithful and His Promises are True. The Holy Spirit gives me Peace when all is silent in Heaven. Ruth
A beautiful message, a truth to hold on to for the new year and beyond.
What a powerful reminder that our God is at work even in those moments when we feel alone and as if nobody cares about the problems we are in!
Lord, help us keep seeking & trusting You. Amen.
SO GLAD He is in COMPLETE control, especially when i think He is MIA!
It is wonderful to know GOD is a Friend that is FAITHFUL HE never leaves. HE is always near now and FOREVER.
It is wonderful to know God is at work even in times he is silent. We can trust him so much and wait upon him. He is our. Savior.
This is quite encouraging to me.
I am exactly in that moment where I am alone, it seems like the heavens are closed, the promises of God do not include me, and its like God has walked away on me. I have cried a river and I don’t know what else to do with my life. I fear for tomorrow because I don’t know what to expect. Its misery upon misery!
The article on Easter was something I needed to be reminded of! Thank you!
Our God is wonderful make way where there’s no way,He is always present inn our live
Me too