Brave

I chose the word brave today for my title because to me that is what Esther embodies. She was a courageous woman of faith. One aspect of courage and bravery that I love is doing things even if you are scared. That’s exactly what queen Esther did. But before I delve into this truth a little deeper, let me give you a glimpse of what brought Esther to say, “And if I perish, I perish.”

I would encourage you to read the full book of Esther. It’s 10 chapters and worthy every minute of your time. It is full of intrigue, a murderous plot, and a surprising twist of fate.

I will begin the story in the kings palace. Esther ends up there because the king is searching for a beautiful virgin bride and is placed there in the best harem. It says that Esther won the favor of everyone who saw her including king Xerxes. He loved Esther and set a royal crown on her head.

Now there was a man name Mordecai who was relative of Esther. He would not kneel down and give honor to one of king Xerxes top men named Haman. Haman didn’t like that he wasn’t honored, so he devised a plan to destroy Mordecai and all of the Jews. Mordecai finds out about this evil plot and warns Esther. Esther responds by asking all the Jews in Susa to fast and pray for her for 3 full days. She in turn fasts and prays too. After that she said she would go and see the king. Though she is afraid that she might be killed because she is going uninvited into the kings presence. She resolves in her spirit that if she should perish, let it be.

Esther was very brave. Where did she get her courage to go into the king’s presence? I believe she got it from the Lord and spending time in His wonderful presence. The King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. She knew her life was in God’s hands. Isaiah 41:13 tells us,”For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” God had taken hold of Esther’s hand and said I will go with you. No matter what you may face, I will be right there with you Esther. Courage is doing things even when we are frightened or afraid.

What things are you scared to face or do right now? What can you learn from Esther today that will help you face your fears? For me the thing I’m afraid and scared to do at the moment is a masters course. It’s quiet challenging and the homework is daunting at times. But I am greatly encouraged that the Lord of compassion and grace goes with me in it holding my hand. I am choosing to move forward each day working towards my goal of fully completing it in 2 year.

How is God calling you to be brave today? What faith steps can you take to conquer your fears and become more like an Esther? I would encourage you to take some time to journal about it and see what the Lord may have you do. We are on this journey of faith together. Where will the Lord take you? What courage is he calling up in you? Go to Him and see. It’s a journey! Let’s choose to be brave!