Have you ever felt yourself at the right place at the right time?

Where you knew without a doubt that God was behind the scenes strategically opening doors to help you fulfill His purpose for your life?

You can clearly see the hand of God in the book of Esther when she became Queen and was faced with helping to save her people, the Jews, from being annihilated by the King’s head-honcho, Haman.

Mordecai, Esther’s cousin, fills her in on Haman’s plot to kill the Jews, and pleads with her to approach the King and ask to spare their lives. Esther was reluctant to approach the King because no one, not even the Queen, was allowed in the presence of the King unless they had been summoned. A violation of this rule meant you were to be put to death unless the King extended his scepter to you.

Can you imagine, barely having your royal feet wet, and then you’re hit with news that would require you to possibly lose your own life?

Mordecai stepped in and explained the importance of this situation because he saw God’s purpose in her life.

"If you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14).

He was basically saying, “Don’t think you can ignore what’s going on. You being a Jew and Queen is not a coincidence. God’s favor is upon you. This is your opportunity to fulfill your destiny. If you don’t your family will eventually fall at the hand of Haman and our deliverance will come, it just may come later.”

Although, I’ve read the story of Esther many times, this time around it was as if the words, “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14) leaped off the page at me. Like Esther, I have been guilty of reluctance when God has asked me to step up to the plate.

I’ve been reluctant because “my such a time as this” didn’t look the way I thought it should, or would require more than I was willing to give of myself. I have been challenged and encouraged by Esther’s story. I don’t want to miss another opportunity to walk in the purpose, and plans God has for me.

I’d like to encourage you to seize your “such a time as this” moments with these few reminders.

1. God positions us for influence.

The Bible says, “she was lovely and beautiful,” (Esther 2:7) and she found “favor” (Esther 2:17) with the king. Her beauty may have taken her to kingdom, but she wasn’t there to just look pretty. There was an urgent matter that needed to be taken care of, and Esther was up for the job. All God needed was her “yes!”

God has strategically placed each of us in positions of influence, whether you’re a stay at home mom or CEO of a cooperation.  Right now, right where you are, is your “such a time as this.”  What has God asked you to do that you have been putting off? Moms, what can you do to invest in your children to fulfill their purpose in life? What co-worker needs you to reach out with an encouraging word? Who do you know that has not received salvation? What ministry has God revealed to you that can’t wait any longer?

God has already placed within you everything you need to fulfill His purpose for your life. He just needs you to be bold enough to step into it, and trust that He’ll be with you every step of the way. A quote to remember, “Somebody, somewhere is depending on you to do what God has called you to do.” –Unknown

2. Surround yourself with a Mordecai(s).

 We all need a Mordecai(s) in our lives, encouraging us to fulfill our purpose. Not everyone is going to get your purpose and calling in life. Not everyone you share your dreams and visions with are going to believe that they’ll come to pass. If I’m being honest, sometimes I, myself, can get discouraged wondering how God’s plans for me will be accomplished with all my weaknesses. Esther set a perfect example by asking Mordecai and the other Jews to fast and pray for her (Esther 4:15). I’m thankful for the people who speak encouraging words and are willing to believe and pray with me. It’s important to surround yourself with believers who will pray with you and encourage you as you pursue and walk out God’s purpose for your life.

3. Choose courage over fear.

 Esther could have easily refused to speak up on behalf of herself and her people. The consequences for approaching the King uninvited were definitely not favorable. Yet as I read Esther 4:15b, “I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish,” I can sense immense courage rising from within her. Courage is: “mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.” She was able to be courageous because she realized her purpose and calling and who was on her side to fulfill it. Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do ALL things through CHRIST who strengthens me.” It’s only by God’s strength that we are able to answer His calling and walk out His purpose for our life.

A prayer to pray:  God, as I seek your face I pray that you will reveal to me your plan and purpose for my life. May I not be hindered by my reluctance or fear but whole heartily pursue you and your plans for my life. Father, may I rely on your strength as I walk out your purpose and choose courage over fear. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Written by Amy (click photo below for more!)