_Go and get all the Jews living in Susa together. Fast for me. Don't eat or drink for three days, either day or night. I and my maids will fast with you. If you will do this, I'll go to the king, even though it's forbidden. If I die, I die._ *(Esther 4:16 MSG)*
In the 4th chapter of the book of Esther, we read how Esther had become queen, enjoying a wonderful life in the palace. However, she was unaware of a decree issued by Haman—a prominent but wicked figure who held a high position in king Ahasuerus's cabinet. Haman's plan was to exterminate the Jews, including Esther herself.
Esther's perspective changed when her uncle, Mordechai, sent her a message to convey the dire nature of the situation. He warned her not to complacent as she herself, despite being queen, wouldn't be spared should Haman execute his wicked plan.
Here was Mordechai's thought-provoking question to Esther, *"...and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"* (Esther 4:14). Perhaps, Esther had been divinely positioned in the palace to make a difference at that critical moment. She decided to take advantage of it and do something that'll save her people.
She decided to go before the king to intercede for her people even though it was against the law and carried the risk of death. I love her resolve; she said, *"...if i perish, I perish."* In other words, *"I'm going ahead with this, even if it's going to cost me my life."* That was the moment she won!
There comes a pivotal moment when you must make crucial decisions about the Gospel and your role in it, just like Esther. Until you learn to make such decisions, fear may keep you in bondage. It's in those moments that fear must not hold you back.
Irrespective of the daunting challenges and the imminent perils or danger, stand your ground on the truth of God's Word. Recognize and take advantage of God's grace in you to win for others. Have the courage to act on the truth. Make bold choices, and be willing to face anything in pursuit of what is right. Hallelujah!
*PRAYER*
_Dear Father, I thank you for the doors of opportunity you've opened for me to make a difference in this world and win for others. I acknowledged and embrace the abundant grace you've bestowed upon me to lead others in victory and fulfil their purpose in life and ministry, in Jesus' Name. Amen._
*FURTHER STUDY:*
*Romans 15:1* We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.
*Esther 4:14-16* For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this? *15* Then Esther bade them return Mordecai this answer, *16* Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish.
*1 Year Bible Reading Plan :* 2 Corinthians 11:16-33 & Ecclesiastes 1-2
*2 Year Bible Reading Plan :* Luke 22:35-43 & Samuel 31
