It is unusual for the different translations I read of the bible to have the exact wording for scripture. I was so hoping this to be not true of one particular verse that I love. I just knew that when I turned to The Message translation that it would read something funky (I often enjoy this translation because it still remains true but is written as if in today’s times.). But praise God, all four versions (NIV, NLT, Message, and Easy-to-read) all said the same words. In Esther 4:14 they all read, “…for such a time as this.” Yes!
See, Esther, a Jew, was made queen. Her nationality was kept secret from the officials. Her beauty, grace, manners, and intellect won her over to all those around her. God had a purpose for her life. This purpose became evident when “her people” became victims of hate. They were not only to be killed, but to be “destroyed, killed, and annihilated” (3:13). Yikes!
Even in Esther’s position as queen, she did not have free reign of the palace and king’s presence. She was to only see the king when summoned. What would happen if she were to go see him without being called? She could die. But, after much prayer and fasting, that is exactly what Esther did. She had decided that after prayer and fasting by her and others that she would go to the king, without being summoned, even if it meant her life. Esther was ready to take a stand for God’s chosen people.
Did you know that you have been chosen for “such a time as this”? Wherever you are in school, occupation, town, country, etc., you are there for a reason. We don’t always know the reason why until we look back one day and have an “Aha” moment, or we may never know until we see Him face-to-face and ask Him. But you are at a certain place and position for a given season for a reason.
I pray that you (myself included) will relish in the opportunity, or whatever situation or location it may be (good or bad), to bring God to the forefront and take a stand for Him. We are surrounded by others who watch how you handle yourself in a given situation, observe you every word or move, and or sometimes even secretly desire to emulate your character. Always remember to bare a positive and firm witness for Christ. Keep God first in your life and in all the decisions you make.
Blessings to you.
| August 22, “Walking int he Word” |