Not too long ago in my Discipleship we went through the book of Esther. Figuring out which book of the Bible to go through was tricky but, I had heard amazing things on Esther and what really stood out to me was this is the only book in the Bible where God is not mentioned by name. But it shows clearly that, even when God is most hidden, He is still working to protect His chosen people.
The book of Esther tells how a Jewish girl became the queen of Persia and saved her people from a plot to destroy them. During this time she was assisted by her cousin and guardian, Mordecai.
Esther was written to explain the origin of the Feast of Purim and to ensure that it would be observed by all the future generations of Jewish people. Esther 9:28 "that these days should be remembered and kept throughout every generation, in every clan, province, and city, and that these days of Purim should never fall into disuse among the Jews, nor should the should the commemoration of these days cease among their descendants." It clearly has achieved this purpose, since the Jews have continued to observe Purim to this day. The book of Esther is read as part of the celebration of Purim.
Esther is part of a much larger story that runs all the way from Abraham to Christ and, through Him, to the Church. Spoiler here, but if Haman had succeeded, the Jewish people as whole would've been destroyed, and the story of God's saving work in and through Abraham's descendants would've came to an end. There would have been no fulfillment in Christ, and therefore no Gospel and no Christian Church.
I encourage ALL Christians to read the book of Esther, not just as a story about the Jews but as part of their own heritage. Christians are not required to observe the Feast of Purim by any means, but they are to take to heart the truth that God providentially watches over His own - Romans 8:28 "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
What the book of Esther really taught me is to keep pursuing God and obeying Him, staying faithful in all circumstances. To trust in God's timing and His promise of fulfillment to His people. Esther is a prime example of how to go to the Lord in prayer and fasting, never losing sight on Christ and staying true to Him in the midst of everything going on. Always trust in God, that He is listening to our prayers and is quick to be there for His children. After all, the determination of God's outcome/will is essentially up to the Lord. Not only Esther, but Mordecai too especially in chapter 2. When things don't go the way we would like them to or go bad, to not get mad at God about it. This is when we should stand tall in our faith, not to fall under pressure, and stay true to God in those difficult times. We can't do it alone though, we are all family - children of God. We don't have to be blood related, but instead we align ourselves with those with the promised blessing from God - we need God's people too.
God's promise to protect His chosen people through Abraham
Genesis 12:3 "I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed."
What is going on in the world right now is a difficult and frustrating time for many people. Not being able to work, schools closing, cancellations of sports, events, etc. It's times like these where our faith is being tested where we could essentially fall short to God. I know I was. A few weeks ago, after a month or so of waiting, I finally received the news I had been praying for - I had been selected for the Summer Missions trip I had applied for this upcoming summer. Unfortunately a few days later, I received an email that all summer missions had been cancelled due to the uncertainty of the coronavirus and how long it may continue. I was devastated. Not only was I looking forward to this experience to grow in my walk with God, but to find my calling for where God wants me. I began to think about all the other students who were looking forward to summer missions as well. God though, has a plan for us. I know that He needs me here this summer, whether it'd be with the people I come into contact with at work, on the street or even with the girls in my youth group, I know His plan for me is far greater than my own.
- B
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