Turning circumstances to conquest

 Turning circumstances to conquest

 By Kurai Chitima

The book of Esther - a captivating story of faith and favor. The story keeps you on the edge. Plot. Suspense. Fast action. Romance. Violence. It's all there.

The name Esther - the morning star... morning star. The other name, Hadassah - the myrtle... evergreen, resilience. Beautiful. Prosperous

No mention of God anywhere, but God is everywhere. Actions speak louder than words

 

1. Esther's circumstances

Is it not great that God does not depend on our favorable circumstances but is the favor in our unfavorable circumstances? God can raise people from any circumstances. That is why we should walk by faith, not by sight (2 Cor. 5:7). All circumstances are opportunities for God. Even the imperfect ones.

Esther found herself in challenging circumstances. Her situation included:

The Jews were in captivity under the Persians.

She had to keep her identity a secret.

A positive note - The rise of Esther from being an orphan to a queen. Favored by her uncle and later by the chamberlain… 1 year of beauty spa treatment and by the king.

The rise of Hanan 3 & 4. Promoted to the highest position below the king. Everyone was commanded to bow to him. Everyone bowed except Mordecai.

A decree to destroy Mordecai and his people, the Jews.

 

2. Esther’s choices of FAITH 4, 5,6,7 

FAITH is a precious stone to build with

In the palace for a time such as this

If I perish, I perish – Risk. Risked losing the palace. Selfless. Esther’s fast was a high-stakes fast.  Esther 4:14-16

She gained courage and wisdom (understanding what to do and say in each situation).

The two banquets. Supported by opportune action. Waiting...for the right time.

Discerning the moment. Turning point.

BETWEEN THE BANQUETS

• Haman builds gallows (night after B1)

• The king could not sleep. Night before B2. Remembered that Mordecai had reported a plot against the King, and nothing was done.

 

3. Esther's conquest

Esther became a deliverer of God’s people.

The rise of Mordecai. Haman was hanged on the gallows he built for Mordecai. Mordecai was appointed as his replacement.

Mordecai was given authority (the king's signet ring) to issue a counter-decree. Know and use your authority. Given power and protection.

The rise of God’s people. Power to resist attackers. Make the previous decree ineffective.

As believers, we have the power to push back and enforce our victory. In Jesus’ name.

We can take a stand... Eph 6:10 – stand ye, therefore.

Know who you are and be who you are in declaration, attitude, and action.