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“Don’t think that you (Esther) will escape the fate of all the Jews because you are in the king’s palace.  Esther 4:13b (HCSB)

Ever find yourself knowing what you need to do and just simply not wanting to do it?  I think we’ve all been there.  Moments when doing the right thing is the hard thing.  Times when we keep asking for confirmation for the directions God has already given us.

When Esther was faced with the reality that she must confront the King in order to save her people, she responded a lot like we would.  “Mordecai, don’t you know I just can’t burst into the King’s court?  The King hasn’t called for me for thirty days,” echoed from her lips.  Truth spoken well yet still an excuse in the making.  We’re great at zeroing in on the facts that shed credence to what we don’t want to do.

Love the way Mordecai reminded Esther, “Who knows perhaps you have come to your royal position for such a time as this.”  Not exactly the wisdom, encouragement or direction Esther most likely desired, yet striking enough to propel her forward.  But Esther doesn’t just accept the yes to do God’s will, she seeks His face for how to accomplish it.  Esther calls for a fast – not just for self but for her maids, for Mordecai and the Jews.

Way to go Esther – take some time to fast, pray and delay.  Ask God to get you out of this mess and miraculously intervene so you won’t have to go through this.  Sounds a lot like my words when “yes” means I really don’t want to obey. Not the case with Esther – her decision was made – “If I perish, I perish”  Pledging to do the tough, right thing Esther sought the favor, wisdom and guidance of God with her “yes” response.

Even when we know exactly what God is asking us to do, we need to press in and pray.  This was critical in Esther’s situation and demonstrated her great dependence on God. We need to do the same. Too many times we accept His “yes” and move forward without seeking His favor or guidance for the next step.  Esther’s decision to say yes and draw close granted her an audience with the King and great favor for the saving of her people (Esther 5:2).  Wonder what we are missing when we seize yes our way?

“Father, You are the giver of all wisdom and the One who knows exactly how and when we are to respond.  Teach us to not just accept “yes” but to trust You to lead us each step of the way.”

For HIs Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life