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Today’s Manna!
Scripture Reading: Esther 5:4-8
Esther 5:4-8 (NIV) reads, “‘If it pleases the king,’ replied Esther, ‘let the king, together with Haman, come today to a banquet I have prepared for him.’ ‘Bring Haman at once,’ the king said, ‘so that we may do what Esther asks.’ So the king and Haman went to the banquet Esther had prepared. As they were drinking wine, the king again asked Esther, ‘Now what is your petition? It will be given you. And what is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be granted.’ Esther replied, ‘My petition and my request is this: If the king regards me with favor and if it pleases the king to grant my petition and fulfill my request, let the king and Haman come tomorrow to the banquet I will prepare for them. Then I will answer the king’s question.’”
In these verses, Esther invites King Xerxes and Haman to a banquet, skillfully delaying her request to reveal Haman’s plot against the Jews. Esther’s wisdom in exercising patience and waiting for the right moment to make her appeal demonstrates her trust in God’s timing. She knew that a well-timed plea could have a much greater impact than a rushed request.
A New Testament parallel can be found in Jesus’ interaction with Mary and Martha concerning Lazarus (John 11:1-6). Despite their urgent request, Jesus waited two more days before going to them. This delay was intentional, as it allowed for a greater miracle—the raising of Lazarus from the dead—demonstrating God’s power and timing.
In our lives, patience and strategic timing are crucial. Sometimes, we feel pressured to act immediately, but waiting for the right moment can be more effective. Like Esther, we can rely on God’s wisdom to guide our actions, ensuring that our timing aligns with His divine plan.
Prayer: Lord, teach us the value of patience and strategic timing. Help us to trust in Your perfect timing and to act with wisdom in every situation. May we be instruments of Your will, guided by Your Spirit in all we do. Amen.
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