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The story of Esther is another example of someone who served God and His people where she was. Let’s remind ourselves of the awful situation that Esther was in. We read,
‘Then the king’s personal attendants proposed, “Let a search be made for beautiful young virgins for the king. Let the king appoint commissioners in every province of his realm to bring all these beautiful young women into the harem at the citadel of Susa. Let them be placed under the care of Hegai, the king’s eunuch, who is in charge of the women; and let beauty treatments be given to them. Then let the young woman who pleases the king be queen instead of Vashti.” This advice appealed to the king, and he followed it…Now the king was attracted to Esther more than to any of the other women, and she won his favour and approval more than any of the other virgins. So he set a royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti. ’ (Esther 2:2-4, 17))
Like Joseph, Esther is raised up to a prominent position in a foreign land. Let’s remember that Esther would have been one of many wives - this was not anything like an ideal and neat situation!
However, God has brought Esther to this place in order to save His people. Although God is not mentioned in this book, His providence (leading) is seen in all of the incredible circumstances that take place.
God’s people are threatened with extermination. Esther has a difficult choice: will she use the position that God has given to her to serve God and His people, or will she choose safety and comfort? She is urged to make a good choice,
‘“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”’
RESPONSE
Do we understand that our times and circumstances are in God’s hands? We have been brought to such a position for such a time as this? How does the Father want you to use the influence that you have? Let’s pray for His guidance right now.
COMMUNITY GROUP STUDY – DREAMERS SERVE GOD WHEREVER THEY ARE
Notices
It might be good to begin with notices. Please share from this week’s Church News
Opener/Ice-breaker
Whose service to God has most impressed you and why?
Introduction - please read in your group
Please read Read Genesis 39:2-4
On Sunday our message was entitled, ‘Dreamers serve God wherever they are’.
Joseph had to wait around 13 years for his dreams from God to come to pass. In the meantime, even in dire circumstances, he served diligently. He wasn't to realise that it was through his faithful service, as he interpreted the dream of the cupbearer to the king, that he was to enter into the fulfilment of God's will for him.
Discuss together (Before getting into smaller groups)
Please read Colossians 3:23
What does it mean to 'work with all our heart as if for the Lord'? And how can we do this in our lives?
Discuss/share/pray in smaller groups:
What is the Holy Spirit speaking to you about (maybe from Sunday's message)?
What will you do in response?
How can we pray for you?