Michelle Rawls, MNSc, APRN, FNP-C

For Such a Time

“Perhaps you were created for such a time as this.”

We have seen this phrase plastered on posters, across T-shirts, on coffee mugs, and more for quite some time. It seems to have gained even more popularity recently, likely because of its empowering message to women. It speaks a powerful truth. On the surface, it certainly ignites our motivation to continue pursuing success. However, the true source of its influence isn’t found in the statement alone. It lies buried in the humble and less-than-glamorous circumstances that prepared the way for a future queen.

This phrase originates from the Book of Esther. Many of us know Esther as a fearless queen who dared to stand up for her people, and she certainly earned that reputation. But before the king offered his scepter to the radiant and lovely Esther, she was an orphan.

Life had not always been easy for Esther. Both of her parents died when she was a child. An uncle initially took over her care. Sadly, he also died, leaving her cousin Mordecai to provide for and protect her. Mordecai was wise and exceptionally skilled at discerning potential dangers facing the nation of Israel.

As if these hardships weren’t enough, Esther’s people were captured and scattered across Persia. The aftereffects of war displaced her far from home. She lived in exile near the king’s palace. Yet, these life-altering events placed the right people in her life and led her to the right place at the right time.

Have you ever stopped to consider all the events that led you to where you are today? Many times in my own life, I have felt discouraged and even targeted by others’ personal agendas. Looking back now, I realize those discouraging moments were preparing me. Had I not experienced them, I would not be prepared—mentally, spiritually, or professionally—for the work I do today.

What if Esther’s parents had not died? What if Mordecai had never needed to care for her? If she had not been an orphan under Mordecai’s care, she likely would not have been near the king’s palace when he announced he was searching for a new queen.

Nevertheless, Esther gained the king’s favor and was crowned queen. Yet she continued to listen closely to Mordecai’s counsel. This placed her in a pivotal position for the future of her people, preserving a lineage from which the future Messiah would come. This is why, in Esther 4:14, Mordecai confronts her with the now-famous words: “And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”

Esther used her position as queen to fulfill a purpose far greater than a royal title. She used her influence to save her nation. Her people needed help, and Mordecai reminded her that if she refused to fulfill her purpose, someone else would rise to do so.

So, look at your own circumstances. What setbacks have you experienced that led you to something better? Did you—or do you still—have your own Mordecai from whom you could glean wisdom? If not, have you considered becoming a Mordecai for someone else? What purpose are you being called to fulfill? And if you refuse, who might step in to take your place?

In my own experience, circumstances that once burdened me ultimately paved the way for better ones. If you are feeling downtrodden, mistreated, or unfortunate, don’t lose hope. Esther entered the king’s court as an orphaned exile, yet she persevered, took the crown, and became a beacon of hope for her people.