If I perish
Today's focusFacing a threat to her people, Esther asks the community to fast with her for three days before she takes a dangerous step, saying, 'If I perish, I perish.'
Read
12And they told to Mordecai Esther’s words. 13Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king’s house, more than all the Jews. 14For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father’s house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this? 15Then Esther bade them return Mordecai this answer, 16Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish. 17So Mordecai went his way, and did according to all that Esther had commanded him.
Reflection
Esther found herself in a position of great influence, yet she faced a choice that carried a heavy price. Mordecai reminded her that she was not exempt from the danger facing her people, asking the stirring question, "who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Like Esther, you may find yourself in a season where much is required of you. This passage suggests that your current position is not an accident, but an opportunity to serve a purpose larger than your own safety.
Faced with a task that was "not according to the law," Esther did not rely on her own strength alone. She turned to her community, asking them to "fast ye for me" for three days and nights. This collective fast was her preparation for a moment of total surrender. When she finally said, "if I perish, I perish," she was choosing courage over comfort. This is not a sign of hopelessness, but of a quiet, resolved faith that places the needs of others above one's own life.
AI-written reflection on the passage above. Let Scripture itself be the main thing.
Reflect
Is there a right but costly step you need to take, and who could pray with you as you prepare for it?
Pray
Lord, you have placed me where I am for a reason. Give me courage to do what is right, whatever the cost. Thank you for brothers and sisters who stand with me in prayer.