Courage in Our Faith Walk

Courage in Our Faith Walk: Lessons from Esther

The story of Esther, a significant account in biblical history, is a testament to faith, courage, and divine providence. Esther's journey from an orphaned Jewish girl to the queen of Persia is not just a tale of personal triumph, but a profound lesson for all believers. It underscores the pivotal role of courage in our faith walk, especially when we are faced with tough choices for God.

The Call to Courage 

The Jewish girl Esther's background was lowly, having been named Hadassah. Her rise to royalty is purely coincidental. We know, however, that it was actually the Lord working behind the scenes. It is said that when King Xerxes wanted to choose a new queen, Esther was chosen. What the king did not know was that she was a Jew. This would prove to be most critical later on.

The ultimate test of Esther's courage came when Haman, one of the highest ministers in the court of Persia, plotted to destroy the Jews. Mordecai convinced Esther to intervene with the king, exhorting her with the famous words, "And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this? " (Esther 4:14). This was a dangerous decision—brave, yet dangerous. To go into the king's presence unsolicited would mean certain death to her. 

But the Lord saw things another way, and Esther's faith won over her fear.

Doing the Hard Thing for God

Esther's response to Mordecai's plea is a shining example of her bravery and unwavering faith. She calls for a three-day fast among all the Jews in Susa, declaring, "If I perish, I perish" (Esther 4:16). This bold move epitomizes the essence of making hard choices for God, even in the face of extreme risks.

Wise and tactful, Esther invited him and Haman to a series of banquets when she stood before the king. At the second banquet, she would tell of being Jewish and turn in Haman's plot. Her bravery turned the tables on him, bringing about his ruin, but saved her people.

Lessons for Our Faith Walk

1. Divine Purpose: Esther's story is a powerful reminder that God places us in specific situations for a reason. Whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, our roles are part of a larger divine plan. We should be alert and full of faith, knowing that our position may be for a significant purpose, just like Esther's was for "such a time as this."

2. Courage in the Face of Adversity: Like Esther, we are often called to stand firm in our faith, even when it means facing extreme risks or making difficult decisions. Courage doesn't mean the absence of fear, but rather the ability to act in the face of fear, knowing that God will provide and protect us.

3. Esther's call for prayer and fasting during a time of crisis is a powerful demonstration of faith in action. It serves as a compelling example for believers, reminding us to seek God's guidance in distressing times. When we make decisions based on faith and with the support of fellow believers, we become instruments of God's grace and justice.

 4. The Power of Influence: Esther's story is a testament to the power of influence when used wisely and strategically. As believers, we are called to use our God-given positions and resources to advocate for righteousness and compassion, becoming change agents in a world that desperately needs this kind of change.

Esther's story teaches us that we are often called upon to make tough choices for God. Esther challenges us to be bold, trust God's plan, and act with wisdom and integrity. And so, looking at Esther, let us be inspired to have the same boldness and faith as she in the presence of challenges laid before us in life, believing that we, too, are here for a divine purpose. In times of uncertainty, let us fall back upon the lesson from Esther, moving forward with the assurance that God is with us and leading the way. Our steps will be rewarded for our commitment to faithfulness. "For such a time as this," we are summoned to stand firm in our walk of faith, making decisions that illustrate God's love and truth to the world.