“For Such A Time As This”

ValMay ♦ April 24, 2020 ♦ Leave a comment

When I read the story of Esther, I’m always struck with one profound thought: that the Lord is always preparing us, all of our lives “for such a time as this”: That tucked in every corner of the Living Word of God, we are being taught “for such a time as this”. I know that we are not ‘visible’ royalty here on Earth, but as believers we are all children of the King and every time we make a choice to make a difference for someone in the world, we are following in the steps of Esther (and, of course, the footsteps of Jesus).  

We are certainly living in difficult and trying times right now and God has been preparing us. I believe this wholeheartedly. And because He’s prepared us, we already have an answer as to how to make a difference in the lives around us. You may never know the affect your kind words or actions have while we live on this side of Heaven.  Don’t forget who you are, one of God’s own, and the responsibility and blessings that come with that. You don’t have to be loud, boastful or aggressive about it: NO ONE knew Esther was one of God’s chosen people, but she was, and she changed the world. She was brave, in the most unlikely of circumstances and she did amazing work with the life that she was given. Just like Esther, God is with you now. He is with me. He is with all of us. Let’s be brave but ALSO wise. Don’t compromise on showing others the love of Christ. Follow His commandments and cling tightly to your faith. God is walking with us through this, just as He walked with Esther. 

What does this look like in today’s world? We can bring a meal to someone who isn’t able to make it to the grocery store or to those who have recently lost their jobs. We can simply call someone who is totally isolated, alone. You do not know the kind of hope you are giving to him or her, or what kind of light you are spreading by just saying “hello, I’m thinking about you. I care about how you are doing”. Hope is such a powerful thing and when your hope is in Jesus, we have plenty to share. And pray. Pray ceaselessly.  

We don’t know what the future may hold but what we do know is that we have all come to our “royal positions” as children of God, “for such a time as this.” So that we might shine bright with His love. So that we may serve others. So that we can offer hope to the hopeless. So that ultimately, He can do His good work through us.

So look for those who are hurting or hungry or in need and be the helpers. Support the essential workers, in any way that you can. There are differences that we can make, surely! And the biggest difference we can make is through our love. Take it one day at a time. And live every day in the same spirit as Esther did. Humbly, faithfully, prayerfully, resiliently and not in silence. 

The Christian Hospitality Newsletter originally posted this devotional in the April Newsletter. Thank you! For those who would like to learn more about this ministry, click here.