For such a time as this

As I have been reading in the book of Esther, I was caught by Mordecai’s words in Esther 4:13-14,

“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 royal position for such a time as this?”

A little back story to this challenging question from Esther’s Uncle. Esther was thrown into a position of royalty whether she wanted it or not, and married to a King who we know she hadn’t seen or talked to in 30 days according to verse 11. Not to mention the reason she became queen was because the queen before her refused to submit to King Xerxes command. (Talk about the need for marriage counseling!) Now, her uncle was asking her to risk her life and go before this sometimes impulsive, angry King and ask for her people to be saved. In the end, Queen Esther decided not to remain silent and ask the King to save her people even though it could have cost her greatly.

As I look at my life I am challenged by Esther’s obedience. Although you and I may not be royalty, God has placed us in the positions we are in for such a time as this. There are people who are hurting for the gospel of Christ- those who have not heard and who do not know Jesus. In Romans 10:14-15, Paul writes, “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

We know that we are called to be the people who bring this good news as we reflect the Great Commission in Matthew 28, where Jesus commands us to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

So, there are people who need salvation and Jesus wants to use us in his story of redemption. What will our response be? Will we choose to be like Esther and fast, pray and act when we see others in need of salvation? Will we put aside our own interests, schedules, and lives for the needs of others? He has placed us all in unique positions, and I challenge you to be intentional with the people you interact with at work, school, sports practices, the gym, in your neighborhood, etc. with this in mind.  Although it can be scary and awkward, I encourage you to not remain silent, and follow Queen Esther’s lead.

Not sure how to start telling the good news? Here are some ideas:

• Use your personal changed life story to help others understand the hope you have in Christ. If you have never shared or thought about your story, begin by writing it down.
• Examine your sphere of influence and pray that God would reveal to you people to pour into.
• Read your bible and pray daily- we have to make sure we are following Christ before we help lead others.
• Ask a Women’s Ministry leader to study scriptures on what it means to be a disciple of Christ.

Lord,  I pray that you help us overcome our busyness and self interest, and stop to see the positions you have placed us in. Give us eyes that see your people the way you see them and hearts full of your compassion for the lost. Help us take this next step in our faith and carry out your command to make disciples. Thank you for choosing to use us.
Amen

Your turn!  What situations has God put you in “for such a time as this”?  How has he been faithful in your life when you are obedient to Him?  Let us know in the comments!

Additional Scriptures to Study:
James 4:17

Philippians 2:4

Proverbs 24:11-12