Scriptures: Esther 1-10
Reflection Song: “You Keep Me” by Travis Greene
What Had Happened Was…(the modern summary)
So Boom…(the revelation)
The main focus of this Book is on Esther, but I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Queen V’s role and how she paved the way for Esther. Her courageous no to the King, was the catalyst for Esther’s yes and elevation to Queen. In the context of this biblical passage, the status of Queen didn’t hold much weight. The Queen was not equal in power to the King, the Queen did not have unlimited access to the King, and the Queen did not have much say in the laws and governance of the people. This is evident in Esther’s discovery of the plot to kill the Jews when Mordecai informed her of Haman’s decree. Imagine having proximity to power, but lacking the influence. That was Queen Esther; in the dark. Here lies an example of God opening doors, and giving His people supernatural favor when the surroundings scream the opposite. Not every door God opens is an easy one. Sometimes there is work required before opening the door. Esther fasted and prayed prior to walking into her calling. Our calling can be daunting. Our calling can be dangerous. Our calling can be uncertain. But what is certain, is that we serve a God who not only unlocks doors, but walks through them with us. Today, decide to have the courage of Esther and watch God work through you as you influence and lead others around you, because someone is waiting on your yes.
QTNA (Questions That Need Answers)
- When’s the last time you fasted to get clarity from God? Were you able to tell the difference between His voice and your own?
- Scripture Recharge: “But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:17–18, ESV)
- Esther showed real courage when she approached the King. What’s one area of your life that needs an “If I perish, I perish” kind of trust in God? That level of faith can shift everything.
- Scripture Recharge: “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13, ESV)
- There are people connected to your yes. Have you ever had to make a tough decision that didn’t just affect you, but others around you too? How did you prepare for it?
- Scripture Recharge: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5, ESV)
- Influence carries more weight than position, but you have to be in position to have influence. What does influence mean to you? In what area of your life could you show up more fully in your position of influence?
- Scripture Recharge: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16, ESV)
- Mordecai stood firm in his convictions and wouldn’t bow to Haman. Sometimes, the crowd or our environment can throw us off in our walk. Can you share a time when outside influence made you stumble and how you found your way back to God’s word?
- Scripture Recharge: “The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand.” (Psalm 37:23–24, ESV)
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