1. Dig in

2. ‘Dig in’ When Mordecai learned of all that had been done, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, wailing loudly and bitterly vs 1.

3. As Queen of Persia, we find Esther: Totally out of touch

4. As Queen of Persia, we find Esther: Totally out of touch Caught up with external things

5. As Queen of Persia, we find Esther: Totally out of touch Caught up with external things Facing personal challenges

6. Mordecai - sent back this answer: “Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this? ” (vs 14)

7. Mordecai encourages Esther to: Identify with her people

8. Mordecai encourages Esther to: Identify with her people Play her part

9. Mordecai encourages Esther to: Identify with her people Play her part Seize her opportunity

11. Esther: “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” (vs 16)

12. Esther moves from self preservation into courage by: Choosing courage

13. Esther moves from self preservation into courage by: Choosing courage Gaining eternal perspective

14. Esther moves from self preservation into courage by: Choosing courage Gaining eternal perspective Gathering community

15. Christ our perfect mediator There is one God, there one mediator between God and men, the man Jesus Christ. (1 Tim 2:5)