Esther_4

Scripture

Esther 4:12-14When Esther’s words were reported to Mordecai, he sent back this answer: Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape.  For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish.  And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” 

Observation

Do not think in your heart that you will escape: Mordecai reminded Esther that she could not remain insulated from this decree any more than anyone else.If you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place: Mordecai’s trust was in the faithfulness of God, not in the faithfulness of Esther. He knows that God will not let His people down, even if individuals let God down.But you and your father’s house will perish: Mordecai reminded Esther that though the fate of God’s people rested in God and not in her, her own fate depended on her own faithfulness to God.Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this? Mordecai knew that God had promoted this orphan in exile for a reason – and Esther must have the courage and wisdom to see that reason and fulfill it.

1. This principle applies to us also. God promotes us or puts us in a place for a reason, and we need the courage and wisdom to see that reason and to walk in it.
2. “You have been wishing for another position where you could do something for Jesus: do not wish anything of the kind, but serve him where you are.” (Spurgeon)

Taken from https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/esther-4/ 

Understanding

I love the story of Esther – a story of bravery, trust, taking risks…but, ultimately of Esther’s obedience and God’s loving response.We see over and over again in the Bible (and in real life), that God is all up in the details of life.  So much so that I don’t’ even believe in coincidence.  Our lives are a beautiful tapestry of God’s bazillion threads being pulled together into His masterpiece.  Esther’s story is just one example. What we see at play here is 1) the placement of Esther – perhaps the least likely candidate – in the king’s house in advance of when she would need to use her position for God’s good and for the good of her people, 2) an accountability partner in Mordecai – who lovingly challenged her, showed her the reality of the situation if she didn’t speak up (the loss of her family) and who was not just looking out for himself but for Esther, her family and ALL Jews. 

Life Application

Where have you/I been placed?  What situations are we experiencing or lie ahead for which we could be placed for “such a time as this?”  Where do I/we need to be more bold and courageous…remembering God is the one that brought us here, not for our honor, glory or success but for His?  Who is my/your Mordecai and how will we respond when challenged?God, thank you for your all powerful love.  Thank you for ALWAYS keeping the bigger picture in mind.  And I thank you for where you’ve placed me in it – within my social circles, in my work, in areas of leadership, as a parent, etc.  May I never, EVER take it for granted or think for a second that it was on my own accord.  May I walk humbly yet boldly in Your Name, using every success, every bit of power, every leadership moment, every gift for your good, your honor, your glory.  Use me today.  Open my eyes and heart to see people and situations through Your eyes and to pour out Your transformational love on others.   ReiTo check out the discussion or to join in click here.