Day 4 - Esther

Read: Esther 4:13-16

Reflect: God is not specifically mentioned in the book of Esther, but His presence fills the pages. Haman, the Prime Minister under King Ahasuerus, had an evil plan to wipe out the Jews. As Jews, it would be understandable if Esther and her cousin Mordecai had felt defeated and turned to despair instead of faith. Esther and Mordecai, however, believed that God would deliver them and their people. They believe this with such conviction that they acted on their beliefs. Mordecai and Esther did not just watch and pray, they took action. 

   We often attempt to find security in things of this world. Real security, however, can only be found when we rest on God and His unchanging character. Even though she was the queen, Esther was not secure in her own strength or position. Esther took a huge risk by approaching the king without him asking for her. She could have been executed simply because the king felt like it, but Esther knew what needed to be done. She had faith that God was working and trusted Him for the outcome.

Respond: Reread verse 16, paying specific attention to Esther’s attitude about what needed to be done. When it comes to doing what is right despite the possible consequences, do you have the same attitude Esther shows? Are you putting your trust and faith in God or things of this world? Examine your faith, is your belief in God strong enough that you can act on it with confidence?