SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD

In Esther 2:21-23, Mordecai's discovery of a plot to kill the king seemed insignificant at the time, but it was recorded in the king's Book of Chronicles, and later played a crucial role in the events that unfolded. In Esther 3:1-2, we see Haman, an enemy of the Jews, being promoted to a position of power by the king. When Mordecai refused to bow down to him, Haman sought to not only destroy Mordecai but all the Jews. Haman's plan was insidious, and it seemed like there was no hope for Esther and her people. Just as Esther and Mordecai stood firm in their faith in God and His promises, we too should stand firm and trust that God is always at work, even when we can't see it.

SURRENDER TO GOD

When Mordecai and the Jews learned of Haman's plan to destroy them, they were devastated and wondered where God was in all of this (Esther 4:1-3). Esther also felt apprehensive about going to the king uninvited to plead for her people's safety. However, Mordecai reminded Esther that she was appointed by God for "such a time as this" (Esther 4:14). Esther's response to Mordecai's reminder shows her surrender to God's sovereignty (Esther 4:15-16). She chose to trust God and act despite her fear. This is a reminder that we are where we are for a reason, and that God can use us to fulfill His purposes. On the other hand, Haman's hatred for the Jews was not yet done. He planned to have Mordecai hanged in public (Esther 5:13-14), but the king recalled what Mordecai did for him, and he ironically used Haman's selfish idea to honor Mordecai (Esther 6:1-11). This show us that God is in control of all things, that even the plans of the enemy can be turned around for good, and those who plot evil will ultimately face the consequences of their actions.

STAND IN THE GAP

Esther's bravery and obedience led her to gain favor before the king and petition for her people's safety, leading to the downfall of Haman and the deliverance of the Jews (Esther 7:1-5, 8:3-8). Like Esther, we are called to stand in the gap for those around us. We may not always know the full extent of God's plan, but we can trust that our obedience and faithfulness will be used to make a difference in the lives of those we encounter. We can also look to Jesus as our example. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus surrendered to God's will and mission, despite the agony He knew He would face (Luke 22:41-44). And ultimately, Jesus stood in the gap for us on the cross, taking the punishment for our sins so that we may be saved (1 Peter 3:18). 

Let us follow in Esther and Jesus' footsteps and stand in the gap for others. Let us put our trust in God's sovereignty and allow Him to use us to make a difference in the world. Remember that YOUR TIME IS NOW, and you have the potential to be a changemaker for the LORD for such a time as this!