Lecture Notes: Embrace Seasons of Preparation and the Story of Esther

Introduction

• Speaker: Megan Marcelino
• Topic: Understanding the significance of the story of Esther, especially concerning Purim, and its application to our life today, particularly for women.

Key Themes

1. Seasons of Preparation

   • Esther was prepared for 12 months for her pivotal moment.
   • Preparation seasons may feel like delays or waiting periods.
   • Importance of embracing these seasons as positioning us for our future calling.
   • "Do not despise small beginnings."

2. Impact of Purim and Jewish Traditions

   • Relevance of Purim to women as wives, mothers, and leaders.
   • Jewish traditions are not just historical lessons but frameworks applicable today.
   • Traditions provide a structure for faith and identity.

3. Finding Personal Application

   • Embrace lessons from Purim as applicable in all roles—women, men, children.
   • Esther’s preparation for her calling used as a metaphor for individual preparation.

4. Understanding God's Timing and Positioning

   • God's positioning is for "such a time as this."
   • Embrace where God has placed you presently.
   • Seasons can feel repetitive and unglamorous but are purposeful.

5. Divine Reversal and Surrender

   • Purim symbolizes divine reversal and release, not just for Esther but for nations.
   • Importance of surrendering to God's will—"If I perish, I perish."
   • Individual breakthroughs can lead to generational impacts.

Lessons from Esther

• Identity and Timing
  • Esther initially hid her identity but knew who she was internally.
  • Knowing when to act and understanding the enemy’s intent is crucial.
• Obedience and Faith
  • Stepping out in faith, even when scary.
  • Trust in God's guidance through scripture and prayer.

Overcoming Challenges

• Decision Fatigue and Mistakes

  • Trust in God to guide decisions.
  • Acknowledge and learn from mistakes.
  • Importance of asking for forgiveness and correcting course.

• Spiritual Growth During Waiting

  • Focus on spiritual growth rather than just forward movement.
  • Dissatisfaction can lead to positive change and propel growth.

Conclusion

• Embrace Your Calling
  • Recognize and embrace your identity and calling.
  • Recognize the season and preparation God has placed you in.
• Application of Purim Lessons
  • Live in obedience, understanding God’s timing, and challenges from the enemy.
• Encouragement
  • Encouragement to apply these lessons in all aspects of life, advancing the kingdom and unlocking destinies.

Key Scriptures

• Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the Lord and rely on Him for guidance.
• Ephesians 2:10: We are created to fulfill the destiny given by God.
• Esther 2:10: Esther’s identity was internal even when outwardly hidden.

Reflection: Reflect on how these teachings can be applied to your current season of life and how they can influence your decisions and actions moving forward.