“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?” Esther 4:14 (NIV)
Have you ever wondered why you are where you are? Some things may occur due to our actions, but others do not. For example, imagine you’re searching for a job, and in passing conversation with someone you know only casually, you receive a lead on the ideal job. Some might write that off as luck, but for people of God, we see it as divine providence. Let’s not stop there. Since God has provided, how will you use the unique opportunity you’ve been given?
The story of Esther is an example of this. Through a series of events, she becomes the queen of King Xerxes of Persia. Unknown to the king, she has a secret: She’s an Israelite. Within Xerxes’ cabinet was a power-hungry, anti-semite named Haman, who plotted to kill the Jews. Esther’s uncle Mordecai, who has been in the background advising Esther, sends her a letter warning that though she may be queen, she is safe from Haman’s edict. God, in His plan of deliverance, has uniquely placed her where she is “for such a time as this.”
Here’s Esther’s response: “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” (Verse 16)
Esther did not perish; instead, her courage and faith changed the course of history. By bravely approaching the king and revealing Haman’s wicked plan, she secured the survival of her people. Haman’s plot was exposed, and the king issued a new decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves. Not only were they saved, but Haman faced the justice he intended for others. Mordecai, Esther's uncle and advisor, was elevated to a position of great honor in the kingdom. To this day, the Jewish people celebrate these events through the joyous festival of Purim, remembering Esther’s brave actions.
Esther’s willingness to risk everything reminds us of how God can use ordinary people in extraordinary ways when they step forward in faith. While we may not find ourselves in a palace or facing a royal decree, God has uniquely positioned us in a “such a time as this” place. Who has He placed in our lives? What opportunities has He given us to extend love, mercy, or justice? And how will we respond?
Take heart in knowing that when God calls, He also equips. Like Esther, we can step into our purpose, trusting that God’s hand guides us every step of the way.
Heavenly Father, we come with grateful hearts, acknowledging Your sovereignty and grace. Reflecting on Esther's story reminds us that we are uniquely placed for such a time as this. Help us to step forward in faith, trusting in Your guidance, provision, and deliverance. May we draw strength from Your Word, which equips us for every good work, and rely on the power of Jesus Christ, who makes all things possible. Lord, give us courage like Esther, humility like Mordecai, and a heart that seeks to glorify You in all we do. May Your name be praised forever and ever. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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