Day 3

Esther was in a rough situation. Her people the Jews were soon to be attacked and destroyed because of the evil influence of a wicked man named Haman. Haman had influenced the King to write out an edict that condemned the Jews as enemies of the nation. It would be legal for the people to attack and destroy the Jews without any restriction. The only person in a position to help the Jews was Queen Esther. God had placed Esther in just the right place at just the right time to influence the King to save the Jews.

Esther's relative Mordecai, who was a just and righteous Jew, spoke some words to Esther that changed the legacy of an entire nation.

Est 4:13-14 And Mordecai told them to answer Esther: "Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king's palace any more than all the other Jews.14 For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" NKJV

Esther saw her opportunity to stand in the gap for her Jewish countrymen and she called a fast for three days for all her friends and family. At the end of the fast she went before the King and was able, by God's supernatural favor, to convince the King to rescue the Jews. As an added benefit the wicked Naman was hanged for his part in the evil plot.

As we fast during January for our church and our families I believe God is breaking strongholds and preparing victories for us. I believe God has placed you where you are for such a time as this. I have learned this - never underestimate what God can do in our situation when we pray, fast and seek His divine help. There is nothing He can't do, no situation He can't change and no stronghold He can't bring down! God is good all the time.

As you go about your day today remember that your prayer and fasting is having a profound effect. James said, "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. "(James 5:16 KJV)

Have a great Wednesday and God Bless You!

Pastor Andy