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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise I praise you today for your divine providence. You are watching over the affairs of men, and you are faithful to protect those who belong to you. Mordecai told Esther, “And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Est 4:14). You used Esther to save your people, and you are the unseen hand that protects my life. I worship you and exalt your name! Hallelujah! Today in Your Word Today you told me the first part of the story of Esther. The events in the story took place over 30 years after the building of the temple and about 25 years before Ezra led the second group of returnees to Jerusalem. Ahasuerus, the ruler of the Persian Empire, was in Susa presiding over a lavish banquet for his princes, nobles, and military commanders. The banquet was likely a celebration of his recent victory in Egypt and a show of confidence in his upcoming military campaigns against the Greeks. Esther, a young orphan under the care of her cousin Mordecai, was thrust into the national spotlight when Ahasuerus deposed queen Vashti for defying his command. This part of the story teaches me several lessons. First, it shows me that you have a plan for my life. Your plan for Esther was that she use her influence to change the mind of Ahasuerus toward the Jews. Your plan for me is that I use my influence to change the minds of the lost toward your Son, Jesus Christ. Esther played a pivotal role in your salvation of the Jews, and as a disciple of Jesus, I play an important part in your plan to save the world. Every day, I have the chance to witness to a lost and dying world about your saving grace! Second, it teaches me that the circumstances of life are often beyond my control. I doubt that Esther ever dreamed she would be the queen of the Persian Empire. She had to adapt to the unexpected situation in which she found herself, and she was forced to trust you for guidance and protection. It’s the same with me. I have a responsibility to make wise, godly decisions, but circumstances can change abruptly, and I always need to have my hand firmly in yours. Third, it shows me that you are perfectly capable of taking care of me no matter where I find myself. The text says, “Esther was winning favor in the eyes of all who saw her” (Est 2:15). When I trust you and obey, you are faithful to bless me, and you give me favor in the eyes of those around me. This in turn allows me to be a shining light for you. Reflection The text says, “Esther obeyed Mordecai just as when she was brought up by him” (Est 2:20). Esther had grown up being obedient to her cousin, and this godly habit enabled her to submit to his leadership when it really mattered. This teaches me how vital it is to obey the authorities in my life, for if I will not submit to those I can see, how can I submit to you who I cannot see? (cf. 1 John 4:20). Request Father, give me the courage and determination of Esther. Help me to imitate her example of complete dependence on you. May I always be willing to say, “If I perish, I perish” (Est 4:16). Thanksgiving Thank you for using a young girl like Esther to accomplish your will. It encourages me to be everything I can for you, for who knows what important task you may give me? In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “I Will Trust Thee” — Daniel S. Warner. Meditation Verse: Esther 4:14.