By Design, Not Coincidence

Daily Devotional – Tuesday, May 31, 2022
Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?
Esther 4:14 (NKJV)

Less than a week after a new staff member reported to my office, I realized I was in for a rough time. This individual did not fit in with the rest of the staff. Within a few days, all other team members complained about the conduct of the newcomer.

No efforts to help the individual fit in the new environment bore fruit. My peers advised me to request my employer transfer this problematic worker. As I pondered my next move, I realized this individual had deeper problems than I thought.

For Such a Time as This

I was dealing with a severely stressed individual who needed a listening ear and counseling instead of strict disciplinary action. I wondered why HR had sent such a case to me. Was it by coincidence or by design?

The Holy Spirit then reminded me of Mordechai’s words to Esther: “Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this? (Esther 4:14). The situation I was facing was not a mere coincidence.

Opportunities Everywhere

For such a time and situation as this, God had placed me in that office. For the restoration of this individual, God had arranged the transfer. I turned to God and asked for wisdom to help this worker cope with personal challenges.

God makes no mistakes. He has a special purpose for each believer, wherever He places us. In our neighborhoods, workplaces, and communities, let us find people and opportunities to encourage, persuade, and win souls for Jesus by offering practical solutions.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, reveal to me Your purpose for placing me where I live, work, study, and socialize.