Devotional

The Dream Team: Understanding Esther

Ready 

“If you keep silent at this time, liberation and deliverance will come to the Jewish people from another place, but you and your father's house with be destroyed. Who knows, for perhaps you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this.” Esther 4:14

Set 

As Christians, there are times when we find ourselves in roles with responsibilities that we may not desire. But according to His purpose and plan, these roles are placed in front of us for a reason—a godly reason.

It took Esther some time to understand that her new role as Queen of Vashti was the specific place that God had intentionally planned for her to be. A humble and simple woman, Esther did not desire to be queen; she never asked to live in a palace nor did she request power, she only loved God deeply and desired that her people were taken care of.

When she found out that there was a plan for Jews throughout the empire to be killed, her cousin reminded her that the role she had been given was a respected one. Esther had the opportunity to influence her King’s decision and save her people from destruction. It was then when she realized that even though she would have never decided to become queen if given the option, God had a plan for her beyond what she could have imagined.

If Esther had never become queen, the Jewish people would have been killed. God chose Esther to fulfill His plan and equipped her with the strength, courage, and confidence she would need to speak to her King and convince him to save her people.

Even though Esther found herself in a role and a place that she did not desire, God showed her that He had a plan for her. Esther made herself available to God because she loved Him, and in turn, He gave her everything she needed to lead well as the queen.

When we find ourselves in a new place, a new job, or a role that we didn’t expect, it’s common to have various unknowns. But when we follow God, we can trust that even in those places, He has a special and specific plan for us. All we need to do is follow Him in patience!

Go 
  1. Have you ever been in a role or position that you did not expect or ask for?
  2. Has there been a time in your life where you know God is calling you to do something difficult?
  3. How can you trust God in times that you cannot see what is up ahead in life?
Workout 

Proverbs 3:5-6; Matthew 5:13-16; Psalm 37:4-5

Overtime 

“Heavenly Father, thank You for leading me and taking care of me. Help me to see Your plan for me, give me the strength to follow You even when I do not understand Your plan. Thank You for giving me the strength I need for the plans You have for me. I love You Lord. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.”

Bible Reference: 
Esther 4:14
Proverbs 3:5-6
Matthew 5:13-16
Psalms 37:4-5