Wednesday · 2026-08-05

Today's Come Follow Me devotional focuses on Esther 4, where Mordecai challenges Queen Esther to act on behalf of her people.

Esther 4

Scripture Reference and Link:

• Esther 4:1–17: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/ot/esth/4?lang=eng

Historical and Narrative Context:

Having learned of Haman's wicked decree to destroy all the Jews in the kingdom, Mordecai expresses his profound grief publicly by tearing his clothes and donning sackcloth and ashes. When Queen Esther hears of Mordecai's distress, she sends clothes for him, unaware of the severity of the situation. Mordecai then sends a message to Esther, informing her of Haman's plot and urging her to intercede with the king. Esther, recognizing the life-threatening danger of approaching the king unsummoned, initially hesitates. However, Mordecai delivers a powerful message, reminding her that her royal position may be for "such a time as this," and that if she remains silent, deliverance will come from another source, but she and her household will perish.

Reflective Questions:

1. Mordecai's counsel to Esther, "who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14), suggests a divine purpose behind her circumstances. What "kingdom" or sphere of influence has God placed you in, and how might you be called to use it "for such a time as this" to bless others?
2. Esther faced a daunting decision, risking her life to do what was right. What fears or hesitations might prevent us from acting on divine promptings to serve, and what can we learn from Esther's ultimate decision to say, "If I perish, I perish" (Esther 4:16)?

Closing Tying Insight:

Esther 4 powerfully illustrates the principle that God often places individuals in unique positions with divine purposes, even when the path ahead seems perilous. Mordecai's unwavering faith and bold challenge helped Esther recognize her profound responsibility and stirred within her the courage to act. Her decision to fast and approach the king, despite the mortal danger, exemplifies trusting in God's power and willingly becoming an instrument in His hands. As we ponder Esther's example, we are invited to cultivate a Christlike willingness to act courageously on divine promptings, trusting that the Lord will magnify our efforts as we strive to serve His children and advance His work, even when it requires personal sacrifice.