I recently finished reading the book of Esther, and a powerful passage stood out to me. I’m sure you’ve heard of it:
“Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. 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?” — Esther 4:12-14 (NIV)
This verse is one of the most quoted passages of Scripture. But why is it so powerful?
The Times of Esther
The book of Esther is set during the reign of King Xerxes, when Persia was the most powerful empire in the world. It was a time of great political upheaval, but also immense wealth and influence.
At the center of it all, Esther, a Jewish woman, found herself appointed as queen. She had favor, wealth, and security. But all of this meant nothing compared to her role in God’s plan.
You see, Haman, the king’s second-in-command, wanted to annihilate the Jewish people. But because Esther was in the palace, she had the opportunity to save them.
It was a strategic chess move that God had used to bring deliverance. However, even as queen, approaching the king without an invitation could mean death. Esther had a reason to stay silent.
Mordecai’s Warning
Esther’s bravery only surfaced once her uncle, Mordecai, admonished her:
“Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. 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.”— Esther 4:13-14 (NIV)
Mordecai’s words reveal a deeper truth:
- God’s plans will move forward—with or without you.
- Fear-based decisions may protect you in the short run. But in the end, they kill your legacy.
King Hezekiah’s Mistake
Eventually, Esther went on to beseech her king and save the Jews. It became a legendary story of bravery and trust in God.
Contrast that with King Hezekiah, who ended his life in sin and cowardice.
In 2 Kings, Hezekiah was told by a prophet that his descendants would suffer because of his sin. Instead of repenting, Hezekiah responded:
“The word of the LORD you have spoken is good,” Hezekiah replied. For he thought, “Will there not be peace and security in my lifetime?” — 2 Kings 20:19 NIV
Isn’t that tragic?
Instead of focusing on the future of his people, King Hezekiah prioritized his own safety and comfort.
Hezekiah had the opportunity to stand in the gap for his people. But because of pride and self-centeredness, he refused.
Conclusion
Kris Vallotton has a saying: “You’re either the hero of your story or the narrator recounting someone else’s victory.”
Each of us will either rise to the occasion God has for us or let fear hold us back.
Esther could have stayed silent and lived a comfortable life, but she knew that legacy was more important.
God has given each of us wealth, skills, and influence for a reason. The question is:
- Will we use these gifts wisely?
- Will we step into the calling God has for us?
- Will we build a legacy that lasts generations?
I hope so.