Bold Prayer and Courageous Action

Queen Esther, a young Jewish woman, stood firm, positioned in a place of influence in a foreign land, not by her doing, but by God’s design. A crisis moment arose with a decree aimed at annihilating her people. To intervene, she would have to approach the king uninvited, a move that could lead to her execution. She could have opted for silence, hoping to remain safe, but she chose to use her influence and step out in faith.

“Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.”

– Esther 4:16 ESV

Before taking that bold step, Esther looked to God through prayer and fasting for His strength and guidance (Esther 4:16). Her courage rose up, not from her own abilities, but from her reliance on God’s providential grace.

Even in the face of adversity, you can trust in God’s plan for your life!

When you face seemingly impossible situations or actions that could cost you dearly, you are not alone. Like Esther, you can seek God’s guidance and favor in all that you do. But Esther’s prayer goes beyond merely seeking God’s help. She completely surrendered her own will to God’s sovereignty and to His divine will.

Esther’s words, “If I perish, I perish” echo her readiness to submit to God’s plan, regardless of the outcome. It’s a profound demonstration of faith.

Today’s One Thing

Reflect on Esther’s courage and prayer today. When you encounter challenges, remember to seek God’s guidance and strength. Let Esther’s courage inspire you to make this declaration: “Even in the face of adversity, I will trust in God’s plan for me. If I must endure, I will endure, knowing that I am held in God’s providential hand.”

Go Deeper

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