Text: Esther 4:1-17.
All along Mordecai had been telling Esther to conceal her identity (2:10), but in the face of this catastrophe he advises her to reveal who she was (v.8).
Mordecai gave her information of the meticulously planned extermination of the Jews (v.8). He requested her to use her position as queen to foil the plot. At first Esther hesitated, but with firm words from Mordecai, she was obliged to act. Now with conviction and faith in an atmosphere of fear, Esther ordered a fast on her behalf. Mordecai went and did what Esther told him.
Though there is no mention of prayer, it was a standard Jewish practice that prayer would go hand in hand with religious fasting. In the midst of severe challenges, in family, church or the nation you must mobilise for prayer and fasting. God will make a way where there seems to be no way!
Meditate on verses 13-14. How are you going to apply them to your life?
Father, in the name of Jesus Christ give me the urge to always be in Your presence through regular prayer and fasting. Amen.