Esther 4:9

“And Hatach came and told Esther the words of Mordecai.”

Esther 4:9 (KJV):And Hatach came and told Esther the words of Mordecai.

Background:The book of Esther is set during the time when the Jewish people were living in exile in Persia. Esther, a Jewish woman, becomes the queen of Persia through a series of events orchestrated by God’s providence. The story highlights the faithfulness and courage of Esther as she risks her life to save her people from a plot to destroy them.

Context:In Esther 4, Mordecai, Esther’s cousin, learns about Haman’s evil plan to annihilate the Jews. Mordecai sends a message to Queen Esther through Hatach, one of the king’s eunuchs. In verse 9, Hatach delivers Mordecai’s message to Esther, which outlines the grave situation and urges her to intercede with the king on behalf of her people.

Themes and Lessons:a. Divine Appointments: Hatach’s role in delivering Mordecai’s message to Esther is not coincidental but part of God’s divine plan. God strategically placed individuals like Hatach in Esther’s life to guide and encourage her. Similarly, God orchestrates circumstances in our lives to fulfil His purposes.

b. The Power of Communication: Mordecai chose Hatach to communicate his message to Esther. Effective communication played a crucial role in mobilising Esther to take action. It reminds us of the importance of clear and timely communication in conveying important messages, especially in matters of great significance.

c. Courageous Obedience: Mordecai’s message to Esther called for her to risk her life by approaching the king without being summoned-a punishable offence. Esther had to summon great courage to fulfil her role in God’s plan. Likewise, we may face situations where obedience to God requires us to step out in faith, even when it feels risky or uncomfortable.

d. The Power of Influence: Mordecai’s urgent plea and reminder of Esther’s unique position as queen challenged her to use her influence for the good of her people. Esther’s willingness to leverage her position eventually led to the salvation of the Jews. This teaches us the importance of recognising the influence and opportunities we have and using them to bring about positive change in the lives of others.

Application:

• Trusting God’s Providence:Esther’s story reminds us of God’s faithfulness in difficult circumstances. Even when the situation seems dire, we can trust that God is working behind the scenes to fulfil His purposes. We should seek His guidance and trust in His providence, just as Esther did.
• Courage in the Face of Adversity:Esther’s bravery in risking her life for the sake of others serves as an example for us. When faced with daunting challenges, we can find courage by relying on God’s strength and His promises. He will equip us to face difficult situations and make a positive impact in the lives of others.
• Using Our Influence for Good:Like Esther, we should recognise the influence we have been given in various areas of our lives and seek to use it for the betterment of others. Whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, we can make a difference by advocating for justice, standing up against oppression, and promoting God’s love and truth.

In conclusion, Esther 4:9 highlights the pivotal moment when Hatach delivers Mordecai’s message to Esther, setting in motion a series of events that lead to the deliverance of the Jewish people. It teaches us about God’s providence, the power of communication, courageous obedience, and the importance of using our influence for good.