God continues to work in the story of Queen Esther, despite neither mention of Him, nor worship, prayer or sacrifice. In fact, all the little details and ‘coincidences’ that we have seen happen thus far serve to highlight that there is a sovereign God, who is in the background, overseeing all that is going on and will come to the aid of His people. When they are threatened with annihilation, He will not stand back to let it happen, but is actively involved in fighting for them, showing them mercy, grace and favour. 

 However, God still expects us to play our part, as did Queen Esther and Mordecai (along the lines of ‘Do your best and let God do the rest’.) Maybe to Esther’s surprise King Xerxes didn’t reverse the murderous law instantly, but after boldly entering his presence once again, putting her life in danger once more, she received the best answer to her request she could get: the Jews can take action themselves. He even gave her and Mordecai the freedom to decide how the Jews should act!

In a complete reversal of fortunes, it is now Mordecai who dictates a decree mirroring the one Haman had issued months before (chapter 3). The first decree resulted in confusion, mourning and sitting in ashes. This second decree is followed by a celebration, rejoicing and Mordecai is wearing royal robes. What a wonderful illustration of Isaiah 61:3:

“To all who mourn in Israel

He will give a crown of beauty for ashes,

A joyous blessing instead of mourning,

Festive praise instead of despair.”

I wonder if it felt like a partial fulfilment of this prophecy to the Jews at Esther’s time ... but the best is yet to come! In Jesus we have the complete fulfilment of this prophecy. Spiritually it’s true in the here and now for us, who have put our trust in Jesus to save us from the wrath to come. And one day we will all experience it fully in every way, when we are united with Him in the new heaven and earth!

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Question:

Are there situations that you, and/or your loved ones are encountering that seem impossible to change?

Prayer/Action:

Bring these before God, holding on to any promises you might have received in the past, knowing that the God of Esther and Mordecai is sovereign over all the details (Psalm 84:11f). Worship songs like Waymaker, classics like Mourning into Dancing or Beauty for Ashes by Ron Kenoly (or a brand-new song along those lines – just search on YouTube) can also comfort, inspire and encourage.