Faces of Grace: Esther
The Essence of Esther
Esther was an orphan, raised by her cousin, Mordechai.After the Babylonian exile, many of the Jewish people were scattered throughout Persia. They were eventually granted freedom to return to their homeland. Many stayed in exile, as Mordecai and Esther did, rather than return to war-torn Jerusalem.The Persian King, King Ahasuerus, was displeased with his wife and sought her replacement. He made a decree that all eligible women come to the palace so he could choose a new queen. His servant, Hegai, was put in charge of choosing the most exquisite woman in the land.Esther was only 14 years old, but she possessed remarkable beauty as well as charm. She was one of many chosen by Hegai to go to the palace where she soon became a favorite. Her every need was supplied, but she had a secret that no one knew.She was a Jew.Mordechai had warned her not to tell anyone because many people in Persia despised the Jews. If they knew she was a Jew, it could compromise her chances of becoming the new Queen.She didn't say a word to anyone.Esther spent her days doing as Hegai instructed her in order to please the King. When her name was finally called, she was dressed in the finest linen clothes and was adorned with many jewels. Her hair and makeup were flawless. She looked exquisite as she walked through the doors to the King's chambers.The King was immediately enamored by her. He loved her more than any of the others. Her kindness sparkled in her eyes as she radiated such beauty.The King chose her to be his queen and placed the crown upon her head. Esther was chosen to be the queen, but her story is far more than just sitting among gold and riches. Esther helped thwart a plan to assassinate the king and helped save the lives of many Jewish people.The King's adviser, Haman, was plotting aloud, to have the Jews killed. Mordecai learned of this and sent Esther a message, telling her to go to the King and beg for mercy on behalf of her people. Esther knew the risk. If anyone approached the King without an invitation, they could possibly be killed, but if the king extended his scepter, the person's life would be spared. Mordecai was asking her to risk her life to save the Jews.Esther, Mordechai, and the Jewish people fasted and prayed before she went before the King.The king held out his scepter after he heard her speak and granted Esther's request to spare the Jewish people. The words Mordecai had spoken to her, were true.“Perhaps this is the moment for which you have been created.” Esther 4:14
The HOPE of COURAGE today
Esther's story reminds us that God can bring about new life, redemption, and freedom for you, even when it seems an impossible feat.She was authentic and favored by all. She was quiet and listened intently to Hegai as he gave her advice. You can glean inspiration from her strength, wisdom, and dignity as she faced her fears and boldly stood before the throne of God.God chose an orphan Jewish girl to become a queen of Persia, to fulfill His purpose for her life, and to save the lives of the Jewish people in exile. What makes you think that God cannot do something equally as awesome for you in your life?“Behold, I am about to do something new, even now it is coming. Do you not see it? Indeed I will make a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert.” Isaiah 43:19
Reflections
Esther was an orphan Jew. She was young. She was not rich and yet she became Queen of Persia and saved the lives of the Jewish people, fulfilling God's purpose for her.What is God using you to do in the lives of those around you?Neither Esther nor Mordecai made any rash decisions, nor did they have expectations for instant fixes. Plans were made slowly and quietly. Esther asked her people to fast for her, and she waited for the right time.Patience is a difficult lesson to learn when we live in an instant world. Yet, God will work in His time, not ours. If we allow Him to work at His pace, we will see amazing things happen.Is there something in your life that you have been praying about for a long time? Do you sometimes feel like He doesn't hear you?Even when you think He is not listening, He is. Even when you think God doesn't care, He does. Even if you have no words left and you think, "what is the point?", there is a point. Some of the greatest times are spent with God in silence. Sometimes it is not about the answers but just being with Him. Sometimes He just needs you to be still and be with Him. Time spent in prayer is never wasted.“The Lord will fight for you, you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:14Be like Esther, bold and courageous enough to stand for the truth. If God has put you in a position, allow Him to work at His pace and you will see amazing things happen. Never be afraid to heed that inner voice.He loves you as you are, and He has great purposes for you no matter where you are at in your life.
Prayer
Lord, help me to be courageous, relying on Your power instead of trying to do it on my own. When I am afraid, remind me how You are at work on my behalf at that very moment. I am thankful that I can be brave and courageous because of Your promises and great love for me.Thank you for being with us today as we look into the life of Esther and see how she walked her faith journey.
