challenges

When Esther’s words were reported to Mordecai, 13 he sent back this answer: “Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. 14 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?” (NIV) Esther 4:12-14

Haman, an official in the Persian Empire, receives the authority from King Xerxes to destroy all the Jews in kingdom. When Mordecai hears of the plot, he sends word to Queen Esther. But it seems that they are backed into a corner today. If Esther approaches the king without his royal summons the penalty is death.

Then Mordecai asks Esther the classic question: “Who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?” It is as if he is saying: “This is the day. . .stand up for your people. . .stand to the king and speak. . .just don’t be silent!” Esther sends a reply to Mordecai, affirming her willingness to risk her life on behalf of her people. She asks him to assemble all the Jews who were in Susa and requests that they fast for her for three days and nights. Afterward she agrees to go to the king. In a final expression of courage and submission, she says: “If I perish, I perish.”

What do you think makes some people brave and others cowardly? What risks are you willing to take to do what is right? What can you do today to prepare yourself to deal with the challenges that require courage? What can you do to depend on God more in your circumstances?

Never underestimate the significance of one! Jesus Christ was one man who made a difference! He did something! He died so that we can live!