“Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me.” (Est. 4:16)
Expanded Passage: Esther 4:15-17
Moving can be a daunting task. Moving in the middle of winter with a toddler and a three-month-old can be even more overwhelming! That’s why my husband and I made some calls and rallied the troops. We reached out to family and friends and asked for help tearing down, boxing up, and loading the truck. One couple took apart our baby’s crib while a family member packed up the kitchen and other friends carried box after box into the moving truck. My husband and I couldn’t have accomplished all that on our own, but with the help of our crew, we were done before we knew it!
Esther faced a formidable charge when Mordecai informed her of the plot against the Jews and urged her to act. After some initial hesitation, she resolved to go to the king on behalf of the Jewish people. She would need to go physically alone, but she was wise to rally the troops to help carry the load. Esther instructed Mordecai to gather all the Jewish people and have them join her in a three-day fast. While she prepared to go before the king, there were thousands supporting her cause in prayer. Esther’s example is a good one for us to follow. When facing a difficult decision, or a demanding responsibility, we can assemble a prayer support crew!
Build a prayer team for the challenge ahead.
Samantha Freds is an ordained pastor in The Wesleyan Church. She enjoys being active outside and spending time with her husband and two little girls.
© 2026 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
