Who are the intercessors in this story? Is it Mordecai, Esther, or the Jews? Mordecai intreated (pleaded) with Esther to seek mercy from the King. Esther petitioned the people to ‘stand in the gap’ for her. Only then did Esther feel confident to stand as advocate on the behalf of the people. We need each other and that is why we just can’t hold our peace. We cannot remain silent, not now: Not whilst the enemy is building gallows for your sons and daughters.

The word ‘intreat’ can also mean to travail; intercede; or advocate, on the behalf of another. The word also speaks of covering someone’s back’ and keeping them safe. Our world is very competitive. Jealousy is widely accepted. In the corporate world, wisdom cautions you to ‘watch your back’ and keep yourself ‘covered’. This idea of self preservation continues even after we become Christians. we continue to guard our hearts from each other, whilst deep down we are in pain. We have learnt how to hide the pain and still shout ‘hallelujah’.

Yet, there are times when our ‘fig tree’ fails to blossom and there are no fruits on the vine’ (Habakkuk 3:17-19). There are times when ‘the struggle is real’. There are times when the pressure of warfare is proving challenging. This is when we need to cry out: ‘Is there an intercessor in the house?’ This is when we need someone to ‘stand in the gap’, cover, and mediate on our behalf… just until the ‘calamity passes over’ (Psalms 57:1).

Saints of God, prayer works. Intercession is effective, but it needs a voice. Esther had to step up, step out, and speak. Esther entered the ‘King’s chamber’ not to criticise, accuse, judge, or ridicule, but she was prepared to die for the ones she was advocating for. In the end, Esther’s prayer averted death and saved a nation. People of God, do not hold your peace. You too are in the kingdom at such a time as this.

PROPHETIC PRAYER
– Father, remind us that we are governed by the values of Your Kingdom. Your Kingdom calls for us to ‘cover’ one another in love and prayer.
– Father, keep us far from the oppressive structures of this present kingdom. We will not assist the ‘king of darkness’ to sow seeds of accusation or condemnation. In Jesus Name.
– Today, I declare fruitfulness, productivity, overflow, prosperity, abundance, success, and surplus over Your people. Jesus, teach us to pray.
– I declare, Inevitable Favour; Uncommon Manifestation; Sudden Acceleration, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.