FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS

“—who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”( Esther 4:14)

Have you ever wished that you had been born at a different time in history? Have you ever thought–I wish I had lived back in the good old days? Well, the truth is that  “the good old days” were not always so good! Every generation has had its problems to deal with. We see an example of this in our text.

These words were spoken by Mordecai as he sought the assistance of Esther. But his challege to the queen also gives us something to think about. We live in tough times, but these are the only times we have. Like the old saying–we have to play the cards we’ve been dealt. We cannot choose the times in which we live, but we can choose how we will live. Some have looked at the situation and have given up in despair. That should never be an option for a Christian. As the children of God we have reason to hope.

Although our heart breaks because of the wretched condition of our country we should not give up. As Christians we have a work to do–regardless of the situation. God has placed us exactly where we are at this point in history and we are here for a reason. Knowing God is in control gives us reason to hope. As Daniel said, “the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will”( Dan. 4:25). Since that is true, our only concern should be to be found faithful in the work God has given us to do. Leave the outcome to Him.

Instead of cursing the night we should be a light. We need action, not complaints. We need to focus on our God-given assignment, believing that if we do what we should it will result in the best possible outcome. David left us an example. Acts 13:36 says,” he had served his own generation by the will of God.” What more could you ask of a man? We should do the same. Let us serve our generation while we can.

Proverbs 21:1 says, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.” If we truly believe that it should color our thoughts about everything. That’s not to say that times won’t be tough—-sometimes that is exactly what is needed. God’s plan is much bigger than our personal comfort. And His will is more important than ours. We need to do the best we can and then be patient as God works all things according to the counsel of His own will.