Is God at Work in Vegas? Esther Part 6. For Such a Time as This

Read Esther 4:6-17 and Matthew 25:14-28

• What do you notice?
• What is challenging for you?
• What parts do you have observations or questions about?

Discuss

Richard challenged us to consider what hold us back from trusting God that He has a plan for each of our lives “for such a time as this” that involves us doing something more than showing up to church and leading a moral life.

Esther’s objections to going and seeing the king (v.11) included the Persian law and her assessment of her position of favour with the King.

• What is it about the way things work in our culture, and our assessment of ourselves that cases us to doubt that we can make a difference?
• What is something small that any one of us could offer someone that would make a difference to them?
• What is something specific to your personality, skills or experience [big or small] that you could offer someone?
• Could that thing you can do be used by God in that person’s situation?

In the parable of the talents (Matthew 25), the master assumes that the servants are capable of doing something profitable with the resources he gives them.

• How has God resourced and equipped His people/ what has He given us?
• Do you think that God believes we can do something with these resources that moves us and others toward His purposes? Why or why not?
• What kind of reasons do you think God would accept for us not doing this?

Richard asked us to consider what we would say if Jesus said to us:

I know you love Me. Tell me, what do you want to do for Me and for my Kingdom.

You name it and I will back you

• How might you create some space to explore this question for yourself in the next week?

Pray: for clear perception to recognise what resources we have been given, God’s guidance in where we can use our resources and opportunities, and courage to step in where we can.