In what ways can we act courageously like Esther when seeking justice today? The Scene in Susa: Esther 8:8 “‘You may therefore write in the king’s name whatever pleases you concerning the Jews and seal it with the king’s signet ring. For a decree that is written in the king’s name and sealed with the king’s signet ring cannot be revoked.’” Haman’s death did not erase his murderous edict, so Esther and Mordecai had to act. God placed them exactly where they needed to be; their obedience turned royal authority toward justice. Why Esther’s Courage Matters for Us • Scripture presents Esther’s actions as real history, showing how God works through willing people. • Her courage demonstrates that seeking justice is not optional for God’s people—Psalm 82:3–4; Micah 6:8. • The Lord who guided Esther still rules; therefore, bold obedience remains possible today—Hebrews 13:8. Ways to Act Courageously Like Esther Today 1. Recognize God-Given Position and Influence • Esther realized her royal standing was providential (Esther 4:14). • Ask, “Where has God placed me—workplace, community, online—to speak for the vulnerable?” • Proverbs 31:8–9 urges us to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.” 2. Act Promptly, Not Passively • Esther risked her life before the king (Esther 5:1–2). • Courage often means initiating hard conversations, drafting letters, or testifying in court or school board meetings. • James 2:17 reminds us faith must show itself through action. 3. Use Lawful Channels Wisely • Esther and Mordecai wrote a new decree instead of ignoring legal structures. • Today: – Vote for policies that protect life and religious liberty. – Support biblically sound legislation. – Engage attorneys or advocacy groups when injustice surfaces (Romans 13:1–4). 4. Pair Boldness with Humility • Esther fasted before acting (Esther 4:16). • Dependence on God keeps courage from becoming arrogance—1 Peter 5:6–7. 5. Stand Firm When Opposition Persists • Even after the second decree, enemies still attacked (Esther 9:1). • Expect resistance when confronting evil—Acts 4:19–20; 2 Timothy 3:12. • Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous… for the LORD your God is with you.” 6. Celebrate God’s Deliverance Publicly • Purim commemorated God’s justice (Esther 9:26–28). • Share testimonies, highlight answered prayer, and give God glory so others gain courage—Psalm 105:1–2. Practical Starting Points This Week • Identify one injustice in your sphere (human trafficking, abortion, racial prejudice, religious persecution). • Gather accurate information; truth grounds righteous action—Ephesians 4:25. • Pray and, if possible, fast for clarity. • Speak to someone in authority or write a respectful, fact-based letter. • Invite fellow believers to partner; courage multiplies in community—Ecclesiastes 4:9–12. The Encouragement of God’s Promises • “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7) • “Let justice roll on like a river, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” (Amos 5:24) Following Esther’s pattern, we trust the unchanging Word, step into the moments God arranges, and watch Him turn courage into justice. |
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