FAST FOR ME... I AND MY MAIDS WILL FAST AS YOU DO Esther 4:1-17 23 January 2011

Introduction:

On 31st December 1945 I began a consecrated fast, after I had listened to

detailed instructions on this subject by Rev. Franklin Hall. I did not eat for 14 days. I

only took water for the sake of cleansing the body. I used to be a heavy smoker. It

seemed impossible to me to stop smoking. But already on the 3rd day of the fast I had

no more desire to smoke. On the 4th day I no longer felt any hunger. A bit later my

weakness was gone and to my surprise, I felt better and stronger every day. I was

able to preach with much more anointing and more authority than ever before; with

much better results.

The Risk Factor (4:15-17)

1. This was a matter of life and death both for her and her people

2. The law was against her, because nobody was allowed to interrupt the king. 3. The government was against her, for the decree said that she was

to be slain. 4:11

4. Her sex was against her, because the king's attitude toward women

was worse than biased.

5. The officers were against her, because they did only those things that ingratiated themselves with Haman.

6. In one sense, even the fast could be against her; for going three days without food and drink would not necessarily improve her

appearance or physical strength.

Bible Commentary

The Reversal Of Favour

1. The king was pleased with Esther. 5:1-2

2. The king experienced sleepless night. 6:1-2

3. The king patiently waited

4. The king honoured Mordecai. 6:10-11

1. Esther gained the favor of the king. 7:1-2

2. Esther’s requests were granted. 8:3-11

1. Haman was embarrassed. 6:6-14

2. Haman was executed. 7:1-10

1. Israel’s enemies were destroyed by them 9:1-11

2. Israel made a celebration. 8:15-17, 9:18

1. Mordecai became second in command to the king. 8:15, 9:4, 10:1-3

2. Mordecai was highly esteemed by the Jews

3. Mordecai worked for the good and welfare of the people

The Challenge To Esther

Mordecai’s reminders to Esther

1. Being in the palace is not a guarantee that she would escape

from death

2. Being in silence and doing nothing when there is something to be done

3. Being in the palace was not an accident for it had a purpose

The Challenge To Us

1. Being a Christian is not enough for you to be contended

2. Being in silence and doing nothing when there is a need to participate and do something

3. Being in the church is not an accident for there is a purpose why you are here

Conclusion:

In 1946 a group of believers from various denominations gathered together in

San Diego to get more information on the subject of fasting and prayer. Many of them

started a consecrated fast. Some even fasted from 21 to 40 days without any break.

They all cried out in prayer for a world-wide revival, for the salvation and healing of

mankind and an out-pouring of the Holy Spirit with gifts just like at the time of the

apostles.

The result of this convention was marvellous. Many healing miracles occurred in

the name of Jesus Christ, demons were cast out, moonstruck people were healed,

cancer disappeared, the blind could see, cripples could walk again, tumours dried out,

lame people and those with tuberculosis were cured, smoking and drinking addictions

were laid down and all kinds of diseases were removed. Crowds of people came to the

front at the end of the meetings, to be baptised with the Holy Spirit