Read Esther 4:1-14. Key verse: v14. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place and you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this? (NASB)
Mordecai was in
mourning because of Haman’s plan to destroy the Jews was set in place. All the
Jews in King Ahasuerus’ 127 provinces were mourning, weeping and fasting.
Through an attendant of the King’s, Queen Esther communicated with Mordecai and
she learned of Haman’s plan. Mordecai wanted her to appeal to the King—but
Esther knew that she could risk her life by appearing before the King uninvited.
Of course Mordecai wisely told her that just because she was in the King’s
palace didn’t give her any protection since she was a Jew. Perhaps she was in
the palace as queen for just such a time
as this.
I’ve had friends
quote that …for such a time as this…several
times. We are where we are for a purpose, a reason. Whether it is waiting in
line at the grocery checkout or chatting with our beautician, it is not just a
coincidence that other people are there. We must use our time wisely to share
Jesus with others. 1 Peter 3:15 tells us…but
sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to
everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with
gentleness and reverence…(NASB). Be ready. Explain your hope. The hope of
our salvation in Jesus—our anticipation of a joyous eternal life that began
when we accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior. Mordecai’s hope was in deliverance
from Haman’s plan—and he needed Esther’s help to make that happen.
Lord, hear our prayers and deliver us from
evil—just as You prayed to our Heavenly Father.
Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be
Your name.
Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on
earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we also have
forgiven our debtors.
And do not lead us into temptation, but
deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the
glory forever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13 NASB)
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