“And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” – Esther 4:14 

Scripture reading: Esther 4:5-14

Esther feared for her life when Mordecai urged her to speak to the king. Queen Vashti refused to come into the king’s presence when called. Now Esther is afraid to come into the king’s presence, having not been called. But Mordecai persists. Identify with God’s people! Judgment comes to those who will not identify with the people of God. Your name will otherwise perish.

Only Esther has two names in the book of Esther; this ties her back to Joseph, but also identifies her with two ways of life – the earthly kingdom and heavenly kingdom. Which will take priority now? Mordecai sees the bigger picture. He knows that deliverance will be provided, but he also ponders that Esther may have been placed in her position for such a time as this.

Amid sacrifice, judgement may be averted; salvation versus annihilation may occur. Esther’s situation reminds us of Jesus Christ. If He had not taken up the cup of judgment in the fullness of time, all would have been lost for humanity and for creation. But because Jesus Christ took up the challenge that was given to Him, His name did not perish. He received the name that is above every name for being obedient unto death. In Jesus Christ, it is always the time for us to serve our God; such is our challenge every day, to see that we are where we are, not by chance, but by the Fatherly hand of God to serve Him.

Suggestions for prayer

Pray with thanksgiving that in the fullness of time God’s Son was obedient unto death to save you. Pray that the Lord will use you where He has placed you now to serve Him well.

Rev. John Vermeer is Pastor Emeritus of Doon United Reformed Church in Doon, Iowa and is currently living in Cedar Lake, Indiana. He has served churches in Kansas, Iowa, and Illinois over the course of 34 years. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.