Hadassah was a beautiful, young, Jewish woman, who lived in Ancient Persia during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes); a king who prided himself on what he had acquired and was intolerant of anyone who defied him. It was in this authority that he was in search of a new, less defiant, queen.

Hadassah lived with her guardian cousin, Mordecai, within the camp of the exiled Israelites. Although they technically lived among the Persians; they were an undesirable minority. Nevertheless, when Mordecai heard that the king was looking for a replacement queen, he saw this as an opportunity to make a difference. After convincing his niece that change was in her hands, she signed on to parade before the king in pageant-like fashion. But Mordecai had warned Hadassah not to let the king know of her heritage for fear of being shunned.

God had a special plan in play, and He required Hadassah's faithfulness to Him. Hadassah, or Esther as she was now known, was indeed made queen and soon after, news came to Queen Esther of a rumored plot that would have all of the Jews killed. She understood that this was her moment to make a difference in this pagan land. With God's help she, herself, would be the change! Trusting in her God and the prayers of her people, Esther decided to risk her life and go to the king, unsummoned, to beg for the lives of the Israelites. God blessed Esther's faithfulness and softened the king's heart toward her, allowing him to listen to Esther and to realize that his hand had been moved to sign a decree upon the lives of the Jews, deceitfully.

God used Esther to bring deliverance to His people. For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor. In every province and in every city to which the edict of the king came, there was joy and gladness among the Jews, with feasting and celebrating... (Esther 8:16-17).

God has a plan for each and every one of us. Can we be used to make a difference in today's world? Where is God leading you to make a change? In your home, workplace, or school? God requires our faithfulness so that His name will be honored. Be the change that others will joyfully follow.

Suggested Prayer:

Dear Lord, you used a simple girl to move the heart of a king; to change the fate of a nation and bring honor to you. What wondrous plans might you have for us today if we are faithful. Allow me the opportunity to be used by you to be the change. In Jesus' name, Amen.

1. Esther 4:14.