God is Never Silent
Ok – I spent an entire morning telling you all that Esther 4:11 was the key verse of the book… it’s 4:13.
If you feel so moved – you can now respond to this message…… “Just as I am without one plea…….”
We spent time today (01/19/20) looking at the Book of Esther, which despite the things it lacks (mention of God, prayer, divine command) is a relatable story and seems to resonate with modern Christians.
And that is the big problem with the book of Esther: it resonates with modern Christians.
Overt mentions of God? Robust prayer life? Holy living? Are they missing from your life? We don’t want to admit it, but we’ve gotten comfortable with our story staying casually Christian.
What was Esther doing before being thrust into the spotlight? Hiding. If we look closely we see when when she is IN the spotlight she is hiding. What is Esther’s real name?
Hadassah. (pron HUH-Da-su) But because of Mordecai’s instruction, she kept that name and heritage hidden. Does anyone know what the name Esther means in the Biblical text? Hidden. Clever, huh?
Will we continue to keep our mission hidden? Will we be satisfied with casually seeking/mentioning/acknowledging God only when it is convenient or life threatening?
If we acknowledge Christ in our Sunday morning schedule, song, prayer, and attendance – are we acknowledging him with our lifestyle when the stakes are a little higher?
Or are we content with staying in the background?
Esther 2:7,10 NLT
[7] This man had a very beautiful and lovely young cousin, Hadassah, who was also called Esther. When her father and mother died, Mordecai adopted her into his family and raised her as his own daughter.
[10] Esther had not told anyone of her nationality and family background, because Mordecai had directed her not to do so.