Esther chapter 2: verse 20 (NIV)
But Esther had kept secret her family background and nationality just as Mordecai had told her to do, for she continued to follow Mordecai’s instructions.
Esther chapter 3: Verses 15-16 (NIV)
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.”
Esther knew she could trust Mordecai’s instructions and advice. She had plenty of experience of his wisdom as she was growing up and had continued to do so, until now after becoming queen. So in spite of her initial misgivings on this occasion, she didn’t reject what he told her to do. But there was much at stake and not only for her, but for all of the Jews living in the land. As an adult she wanted to be sure of God’s direction so she asked him to fast and pray and she and her attendants would do likewise. We know the story well. She did go in to see her husband the king, but not simply under Mordecai’s direction. There was a clear and detailed plan in her heart which I believe came from the Lord when she set herself to fast.
Its great for us to have access to wise counsel and advice from those whom we trust and respect, but its even better if we take the time to go directly to the Lord to ask for His instruction and direction. He will never refuse it, and it will always be right.
Dear Lord,
Thank You for wise and trusted friends and family who support me in my decisions and plans, but most of all thank You for the direct counsel and guidance of Your Holy Spirit, which will always keep me in the path of Your appointing. Help me to have the courage and strength to follow that guidance completely, even if its difficult. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.