Advanced Planning

“When Esther was taken to King Xerxes at the royal palace in early winter of the seventh year of his reign, the king loved her more than any of the other young women. He was so delighted with her that he set the royal crown on her head and declared her queen instead of Vashti. To celebrate the occasion, he gave a banquet in Esther's honor for all his princes and servants, giving generous gifts to everyone and declaring a public festival for the provinces."  Esther 2:16-18

Every once in awhile my retirement planner friend and I get together for lunch. Primarily, we catch up with all that is going on in our lives. We give updates on our families. We share the latest about the ministries, in which, we're involved, and basically just enjoy one another's company. We do, however, make sure somewhere during our time together that we review the retirement plan. We look at what's going on, make changes when we need to and be sure we're both on the same page.

Our verses today reveal a repeating theme in God's dealing with his people. Advanced planning. Here we read about a young Jewish woman who ascended to the position of Queen of the Persian empire. No clues are given as to why God would move in this pagan king's heart to choose her, but he did. It isn't till later in the story that we understand that she was placed there to be a tool in God's hands to rescue his people.

This story should encourage us. There are times in life where we wonder why God has us where we are or what in the world we're supposed to be doing? Esther's story tells us at least two things. First, pay attention. God is at work connecting your circumstances to his purposes, his word, and his kingdom. Second, be patient. Perhaps, the revelation of God's purposes is right around the corner. Just keep doing the last thing God told you to do always being prepared for what's next.

Grace and Peace,

Tom Wiles
tom@fallcreekchristian.org

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