Keep Standing

Esther 8:1-8; 9:18-22

Esther and Mordecai could have rested on their laurels.  The enemy of the jews had been defeated.  He was hung on his own gallows.  Esther was given the possessions of Haman and all of his wealth.  For his faithful service to the king, Mordecai was made second only to the king.  They "had it all," yet they did not simply stop and enjoy their newly gained freedoms, the continued to stand against the injustice of the plans that Haman had set into motion.

Something HAD to be done to prevent the agagites and other non-jewish groups from carrying out the destruction of the jewish culture in persia.

Stand Up & Speak

Esther 7:1-10

Be bold, but leave the results to God.

While Haman has been boasting to friends and family in his prideful arrogance, Esther has been humbly and thoughtfully preparing to make her stand.  Despite any fear at "outing" a rich and powerful nobleman (Haman) she thoughtfully and quietly makes her request–"spare my life, this is my request. And spare my people; this is my desire."

Esther points out that the actions implemented by Haman does not only enslave a people, but will actually destroy a portion of the entire citizenry that is the possession of the king.  In other words, Esther points out how the implementation of Haman's plan will actually cost the king, not to mention cost the life of the king's favorite, the queen.

Stand With Humility

Esther 5:1-14

Humility ultimately wins the day.

Humble: submissive, respectful, lowly in manner, modest, not self-asserting, obedient.

Esther might have been angry, outraged, mad or crated conflict like so many do today.  Haman was planning and had received approval to commit genocide against an entire race of people, Esther's people.

Stand Down

Esther 4:1-3; 10-16

Surrendering to God leads to greater things.

Stand down:  relax or cause to relax after a state of readiness.

Esther and Mordecai were in a highly stressed situation, but before they took any action they stood down and sought God in prayer and fasting.  They grieved the injustice brought upon their people and took their laments to God.  God desires his people to trust him and surrender to his work.  Esther heroically fulfilled her duties.

There are three main types of fasting: