Warning

  

For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?

Esther 4:14

Our children are in a crisis. It's not a virus, it's not a lack of education, it's not a lack of food. It's danger. Danger from sexual predators, sex traffickers, and exploitation.

But what are we supposed to do? How do we as Christians confront this evil? 

God knew you before you were born. He had a plan for you then and He has one for you now. You were born for such a time as this. 

"I don't know what I'm supposed to do," we say.

"I'm afraid I may be making the wrong judgment," we say.

"If I say something I may be risking my life," we say

Esther had the same reaction when Mordecai asked her to plead for her people before King Ahasuerus. She was so much safer in the palace, staying quiet, hiding her identity. Besides, if she went before the king she could be killed! Would we have felt differently?

Mordecai's answer to Esther was that God would deliver His people with or without her help but if she refused she and her father's house would be destroyed. He reminded her that she was in her position for such a time as this. So here you are, born within the last 100 years. Why? What's God's purpose for you since you are right here, right now?

Esther sent word back to Mordecai. She told him to gather everyone in Shushan. Then fast and pray for her for three days. She and her maidens would do the same. Then she would go before the king saying, "If I perish, I perish." 

There are ways to help. Operation Underground Railroad has some ways to protect our personal children and recognize others in need of help.

1. We need to accept the reality that it isn't a matter of if a predator will reach out to my child, but when. 
2. Recognize my role as a parent in protecting my children 
3. Understand the tactics predators use. 

We may not recognize the signs that are right before our eyes of others in need of help.

1. Does the person seem disconnected from family, friends, and community?
2. Is their school attendance erratic?
3. Does the person seem timid or fearful or hiding in full view?
4. Does the person show signs of deprivation of sleep, food, or medical attention? 

These are just a few of the signs to be aware of. 

These are things school counselors and law enforcement should be made aware of. 

So what can I do personally? 

1. There is power in the name of Jesus. Pray for the children
2. Report what you see.
3. Be wary of play dates and sleepovers, even for the youngest children. 
4. Be involved in your church, school, community, and support of local law enforcement. 

We are here for such a time as this. How will we answer? 

Our children are born with so much of what they will need throughout their lives but the one thing they all need is protection. 

Heavenly Father, help us to pray, be watchful and speak up for the defense of our children. In Jesus's name. Amen.