June 29; Day 36

Esther

For such a time as this... Esther was chosen to be queen. This is the application I'm always reminded of as I read this story. It tells me that Esther was born at that time for that reason and was in those specific circumstances so God's plan could be revealed through her. Isn't this the same for all of us? We're all here for a specific reason at this appointed time. Make it count.

Yet today I recognized something else. God had chosen Esther and she had to choose to obey. Yet even choosing to obey, she still had to learn how to be most effective in her environment. God had placed her in the Queen's role. And He had divinely appointed her for her role. No doubt He was also strengthening and guiding her along the way.

What I was impressed with today was that she had to learn how to make requests of the king. No doubt she - as the queen - had witnessed individuals making requests the "wrong way." Perhaps they demanded the king do something or they threatened the king. We see that even for the king to hear the request was something of a challenge as he had to extend his scepter to you. Even for his own wife.

Esther knew this wasn't going to be an easy task. She asked for fasting and prayer as she prepared herself to do so. But she resolved to do so, even if it meant she would perish. When we see Esther asking the king I notice her phrasing... ever so particular...

"If it pleases the king to grant my petition..." (Esther 5:7)

Why does this strike me so? Because Esther never super ceded the king's authority. She never placed herself above Him by demanding or even suggesting that He should see things her way. Rather she made a suggestion only if it pleased the king. How often do I tell God what I want to have happen. I reflected back on some of the requests I made of God this morning.... "Bless me today as I tackle this difficult conversation." "Strengthen me as I endure this challenge." "Be with my friend as he goes through this difficult problem." "Grant my children peace and rest after a busy weekend." And it goes on and on... but never did I say, "If it pleases the king..."

How much I could learn from Esther. Not only has God chosen me for this time and place to accomplish His will... but I also have to learn to make my petitions of the King in such a way I continue to demonstrate His Lordship over me.