For Such a Time as This

One of my favorite books in the Bible is the book of Esther.  I partially think the reason I love it so much is because in the beginning there is a beauty pageant. 

Yes, I said beauty pageant. 

Think about it.  There was an order for women from every kingdom (a casting if you will) to come to the palace and display themselves before the king (the judge or judges). Then the new queen, Esther was crowned (like the crowning of a new Miss Universe etc).  Esther was awarded the title as the new queen of Persia, with her predecessor banished from the kingdom due to not "fulfilling" her duties. 

See the comparison? 

But that isn't the only reason why I love this book.  I love it because of this verse in Esther after Mordecai informed the Queen of evil Haman's intentions to completely destroy the jews:

"For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the jews from another place and you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this." Esther 4:14

Esther didn't want to be queen. She didn't ask to be queen. But her currently reality was.....she was queen.  And what was she going to do with the information she had at hand. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes for other versions) law at the time was that anyone who approached the King in the inner court without being summoned would be put to death.  Would she risk her life for her people?

It was no coincidence that she was queen during this tumultous time.  The fate of her people was at stake and she was really the only one who could speak to the King and save them.  It is so amazing to see God's hand as he orchestrated every detail of this story.  From her becoming Queen to when the jews were able to defend themselves against those who sought to destroy them.  God was in control. And he used a young girl to show His glory and save His people.

This story often has me wondering....just what am I doing here right now? Again, it is no coincidence that I am here. On this earth. At this very moment.  God has a purpose, a plan, a will for my life.  What is He orchestrating at this very moment?  People are hurting and searching for something. They are grasping at air, celebrities, drugs, alcohol, porn and money in order to fill a void that only God can fill.  How do I know that I have not been placed here on this earth "for such a time as this". In order to share the grace that is from God. The gift of salvation that is only from the blood of Christ.  The loneliness that takes a hold of our hearts....the ache that can only be filled by Him. 

We can't stand by and just profess that we know Christ. We must live it. We must share it with others. We must be light to the darkness that encompasses this earth. 

Do you have a favorite book in the Bible? One that stirs up emotions and motivates you?  Please share!

Tiff~