Without Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther, we would know little about what was happening with God’s people during the time of the Persian Empire. These three great books of biblical history emphasize the sovereignty of God, the importance of being faithful to His Word, and the value of godly leadership. Coy Roper’s comments about the exiles’ rebuilding of Jerusalem, their rededication to the Law, and the story of Esther’s courage call us to dedicated service to our faithful God.