Devotional Text: For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this? (Esther 4:14)
The city of Shusan was in confusion because the decree stating that all the Jews in the land should be killed and all their belongings taken had just been signed. Mordecai (Esther’s foster father) became so sad that he put on sackcloth, covered his head with ashes and wailed so much.
Esther got wind of the situation and sent Hathach to him to know the details. Mordecai’s response is our focus. Mordecai told Esther that she could have been made queen to play her part in the process of preservation of the Jews. He made her realize that it was her time to stand up for God.
I am challenged by the life of Mordecai. He probably never knew that Esther would become queen but he was intentional about raising his foster daughter to be someone who could be fit for the palace. He raised her through the help of God and when the opportunity presented itself, she became queen through divine providence.
Mordecai had an insight into the times. He knew that children are like arrows in the hand of the Almighty. He knew that training Esther would have a return on investment. He didn’t know that he was raising a lady that would be instrumental in saving him and his people. This is showing us the importance of engaging in disciple-making.
Esther heeded the words of Mordecai and she responded by requesting for prayer support and also praying personally with her servant women. She understood that this was her moment and she needed to take action. It was not time to be passive. The Lord heard the cry of Esther and the Jews and their enemies were conquered. Although the Jews had to fight back, the Lord gave them victory.
Great exploits await us but it begins with understanding the times and seasons. It starts from knowing our purpose in the kingdom at such a time as this. We need to watch the needs around us and the burden the Lord is placing on our hearts.
Our prompt response of obedience will bring revival and transformation to lives around us. Who knows whether you have come into the kingdom for such a time as this?
Action Point/Challenge: What is the burden the Lord is placing in your heart in this season and how do you want to run with it?
Prayer: Lord, reveal to me the reason I am in your kingdom.
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