Daily devotional · November 10
For Such a Time as This
“When Esther’s words were relayed to Mordecai, he sent back to her this reply: “Do not imagine that because you are in the king’s palace you alone will escape the fate of all the Jews. 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 house will perish. And who knows if perhaps you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: “Go and assemble all the Jews who can be found in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day, and I and my maidens will fast as you do. After that, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish! ””
Esther was safe in the palace, and speaking up could cost her life. Her cousin Mordecai does not pressure her with threats; he asks a question that sits with her: perhaps you came into your position for a moment like this. She responds not with instant courage but with preparation. She asks her community to fast and pray alongside her for three days, and then she decides to act, accepting the risk. Notice that she does not act alone. Courage in Scripture is rarely a solo performance. Think about where you have influence, a family, a workplace, a friendship, and whether there is something right you have been putting off saying or doing. Today, name one situation where you might be the person in the right place. Ask one trusted friend to pray with you about it, and then take the first small step of speaking or acting with kindness and truth.
Prayer
God, give me courage and wisdom for the moment You have placed me in. Surround me with people who pray. Amen.