08/26/2024 – We Were Called for Such a Time as This
Esther 4: 12 When Esther’s words were reported to Mordecai, 13 he sent back this answer: “Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
One of the greatest dangers we face as a church is complacency. We can focus so much on ourselves that we may forget our purpose. It is a sad reality that for many congregants, the promise of blessing leads to selfish pursuits rather than sacrificial evangelism. Many see religion as a means to self-improvement- a way to display self-righteousness. Others, as a good-luck charm or a way to increase the odds in your favor. The true church often sleeps; but when it hears the voice of God it wakes up and jumps into action!
We must also be attentive to the call of the Holy Spirit. He is always reminding us that we were not called to simply secure our own salvation and our individual or family blessing. We were called to preach the gospel to every creature and reflect Christ to the world. Today also there is a decree of condemnation- it is time stamped and we must act now. We must intercede with the king. We must be willing to sacrifice our own desires and the security of our position to save others. That is the glory of Christ and that is the beauty of the church!
The true Church is Willing to Sacrifice ALL to Fulfill God’s Purpose. Esther only asked that her people, in exchange for her sacrifice, fast and pray with her for three days. She did not want to go to the king trusting her own ability or external beauty. She knew that if she was to accomplish anything, it would be only because of the power of God.