A young orphan girl, Hadassah, found herself not just living in an unfamiliar world but reigning over it. We do not know her childhood history; how her parents died, did she have brothers and sisters, but we know from her testimony that God had HIS hand on her. She was raised by her cousin, Mordecai.
As Queen Esther, she lived in a palace, but it was not “home!” The people, traditions, and clothing, nothing felt like home.
She had to hide her real name, living a double life, unable to share who she was, where she came from, as she learned her new role in life.
She did not choose this season of life, but adapted to life as Queen, not knowing her future at the time.
She had been taught to keep her focus on the God of her fathers. She was the only Jewish woman in the area, and she didn’t have a life outside the palace. Her family history was a secret. I am sure she had memories of her Hebrew ancestors and how they wandered the wilderness yearning for a home.
She had lived in the palace five years, when she received a message from her cousin, Mordecai. He asked her to go to the King to reverse the edict against her people. She hesitated and sent a message to Mordecai. No one went before the King without an invitation. They could be put to death.
His reply, “If you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place…. and who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:13-17 NIV)
- Esther had to walk in wisdom, she understood the enemy had the King’s ear.
- Esther prepared for the battle!
- Three days of fasting for herself and her attendants, Mordecai and all Jews.
- Two banquets to gain favor with the King.
- A public confession of her heritage.
- She had been trained in social skills to approach the King! And she was dressed in her Royal Robes which identified her.
Esther walked in confidence and made her request before the King. She used all her resources and followed God’s strategy for victory!
Esther came to the place where she realized it was no longer about her. She had a God given purpose! She grew from an orphan girl following directions to becoming a strong, courageous Queen. She became a leader for her day.
Esther’s KEY to fulfilling her God given assignment on earth: Preparation and peace!
Her heart was established in the God she served. “Their hearts are secure; they will have no fear; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.” (Ps. 112:8 NIV)
Jesus understood how important peace was to our daily walk, “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” (John 14:27 NLT)
Esther put herself in a place to hear and follow the Lord, even though she did not understand everything that was going on. Her heart was established, and the peace of God kept her in position to complete the task before her.
You, woman of God, were brought to the Kingdom for such a time as this! God has designed your robe of righteousness and garment of praise to keep you and lead you by the still waters. (Is. 61:3;10).
He also encourages us in Revelation 16:15, “Blessed are all who are watching for me, who keep their clothing ready so they will not have to walk around naked and ashamed.”(NLT)
What condition are your garments in? No matter what shape you are in, if you are totally unraveled, or just have a few loose edges, all you have to do is submit the threads of hurt and heartache; the thorns of life, to the Lord. He will use the loose ends and weave your life into the original design created just for you!
There will be many trials in this earth, but as you established your heart in HIS peace, He will lead you by the still waters into a land flowing with milk and honey!.