In this chapter Mordecai, Esther, and the other Jews learn of Haman’s plot against them and many go into mourning. Esther and Mordecai then communicate via messenger and devise a dangerous plan.
“Then Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, ‘…if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?’ Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai, ‘Go, gather all the Jews… and hold a fast on my behalf… I… will also fast… Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.’ ” (v13-17 abr)
Mordecai asks Esther to plead for the Jews’ lives in the king’s presence, however, she risks being put to death if she enters his presence without an invitation. So Esther requests that every Jew Mordecai can reach fasts for three days, just like she and her attendants. This isn’t said explicitly, though I’m assuming prayer is paired with this period of fasting.
The first thing that struck me is how infrequently I fast and pray. Whenever there’s something heavy on our hearts, fasting (when medically safe to do so) while praying can be very important. This brief article outlines some of the many good reasons to fast: https://www.thenivbible.com/blog/10-biblical-purposes-fasting/.
The other thing that struck me is Mordecai’s line: “And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Do we know all of God’s plans all of the time? Unfortunately, no. A large component of faith is obeying God when we don’t know where that obedience will lead, or how it ties into God’s larger plans.
It sounds like Esther might be questioning her calling or purpose for being the queen. Questions like “why me?” or “who am I to…?” might be running through her head. Mordecai encourages her by saying that even though she may not understand God’s purposes and plans, she can trust He has put her in this position for a reason, possibly so she can save His/their people.
I wish I could tell you that following God is easy (it’s not). I wish I could tell you we reach a point of fully understanding God and all of His plans (we don’t). What I can tell you is God is faithful, so when we trust and faithfully obey His commands (such as fasting and prayer) He will listen and help us fulfill His will/calling. He handles all of the hard stuff, asking only for our obedience and trust in return.
Father God, our Sovereign Guide and Faithful Lord, we praise Your holy name. You have blessed us with many opportunities to obey, and even when we fail, you remain faithful. Thank you for helping us obey You, because we cannot do it on our own strength and wisdom alone. May we honor and glorify You with our obedience, so others may experience Your kingdom here on earth. In the name of Jesus our King we praise You, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training