Esther 4:15-17 — If I perish, I perish

READ THIS: Esther 4:15-

15 Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: 16 “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” 17 So Mordecai went away and carried out all of Esther’s instructions.

WHAT’S THIS MEAN, ANYWAY?
 
Yesterday, we learned about Mordecai’s bold request to Esther and his even bolder statement that even if Esther did not step up to help, that God would find a way to deliver His people from the danger they were in! Today, we get to hear Esther’s response… so let’s talk about it!

First, Esther tells Mordecai to gather all the people together and to fast for her and with her. All throughout the Old Testament, fasting and prayer are deeply connected. When people truly wanted to have understanding of what God was calling them to do or what to say, they often fasted! Secondly, Esther boldly claims herself that she will go to the king and do exactly what Mordecai has asked her to do, saying that even though it is illegal, and even though she could die, she would do it!!! This teaches us an important reminder about authority. The Bible makes it very clear that believers should honor the laws and authorities placed over them, but this passage teaches us that we must also understand that we bow down to a higher authority: God! When we see authorities directly going against our God, it is on us to speak up gently, lovingly, and faithfully.


THINK ABOUT IT:

1. This passage shows us that Esther is willing to be arrested, dethroned, or even die for the sake of her people and her faith. Who else does this remind you of in the Bible? There’s certainly a few!
 
2. Why is it important for us to not only stand up to authority when they do something against Jesus, but to do it with love? Why are love and gentleness necessary parts of faithfully standing up for what is right?

TRY THIS:

Fasting is a process that can look very differently for us today than back then, but it can really deepen our walk with Christ if we take it seriously! Today, we challenge you to practice fasting from something. What that looks like practically is choosing something that actively takes up your time and attention (or maybe even something you crave) and giving it up for the day. When you think about that thing or activity, or even when you begin to crave it, replace that thing with Jesus (prayer, worship, time in the Word, etc.)!

SONG OF THE WEEK:
 
The song of the week is about Esther’s call from Mordecai and her response, but as you listen, think about how Esther was willing to lose everything for this decision!

Listen on YouTube or Spotify!

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