08/07/2011

Esther: Success despite hate and envy

Esther, besides being a foreigner in a hostile land, was also an orphan. She and her people were victims of an evil plot by Haman, a wicked high-ranking Persian official who simply hated Jews. His plan, which already had a set date and the royal seal of approval to be carried out, would result in the extermination of all Jews living in Persia within a few days.

No other people in exile, or even as simple immigrants, have been more afflicted, more hated, and more persecuted than the Jewish people. Such treatment towards Jews dates from the very beginning of their existence, even before they became a nation.

In fact, all of God’s people suffer the same treatment, regardless of their nationality, Jew or not. The Lord Jesus said that His followers would be hated by all nations, guaranteed.

But how is it possible that a people so hated, so persecuted, and so attacked by all, and without reason, can stand and still be successful? (Any resemblance to the Universal Church, is not mere coincidence…)

Through the story of Esther and other heroes of faith, we learn two secrets that have made them successful despite the challenges they faced in foreign lands:

God’s irrevocable and unbreakable covenant — God has a commitment to those who are His. No weapon formed against them by anyone, in any country, under any law — shall succeed. God is faithful to those who have a living covenant with Him.

Gather my saints, those who have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice. Let the heavens declare his righteousness, for God Himself is Judge. Psalm 50:5,6

The extreme courage, daring, and sacrifice of His warriors – Esther risked her own life to save her people. Initially she was afraid, as was also common to other heroes of faith like Moses, Gideon, and Jeremiah. But she overcame her fear, developed her courage, and went for the all or nothing. Through her boldness, fasting, and self-sacrifice, she interceded before the king and saved her people.

Fast for me; neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will fast likewise. And so I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish! Esther 4:16

Your nationality, the family you have or don’t have, or your circumstances can only prevent your success if (1) you are a coward, (2) don’t have a covenant with God, or both.

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