What steps can we take to defend the vulnerable, as Esther did? Esther’s Heart for the Helpless “For how could I bear to see the disaster that would befall my people? How could I bear to see the destruction of my relatives?” (Esther 8:6) Listening to the Cry of the Vulnerable • Esther first felt the weight of impending destruction; she did not close her eyes to it. • Proverbs 31:8–9 urges, “Open your mouth for those with no voice … defend the cause of the needy.” • Before we can defend anyone, we must open our ears and hearts to their real condition. Preparing the Heart • Compassion that moves us to action begins in God’s own character (Psalm 103:13). • Ask the Lord to enlarge your heart; refusal to harden it is itself obedience (Deuteronomy 15:7–8). • Regular time in the Word keeps our motives pure and our discernment sharp (Hebrews 4:12). Strategically Using God-Given Position • Esther leveraged her access to the king; God likewise places us where our voice matters. – Home: shaping children’s outlook toward mercy. – Workplace: influencing policies that protect the weak. – Community: serving on boards, councils, or volunteer teams. • “Who knows if you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14). Acting in Faith, Not in Fear • Esther crossed a literal line when she entered the throne room uninvited; risk is often unavoidable. • Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Be strong and courageous … the LORD your God is with you.” • Practical courage today: – Report abuse even if relationships are strained. – Confront unjust practices compassionately yet firmly. – Support crisis-pregnancy centers, foster care, anti-trafficking ministries. Supporting Our Actions with Prayer and Fasting • Esther fasted three days (Esther 4:16); spiritual battles demand spiritual weapons. • Ephesians 6:18 instructs continual prayer for “all the saints,” especially the most endangered. Partnering with Others for Lasting Change • Mordecai and the Jewish community stood with Esther; isolation weakens advocacy. • Ecclesiastes 4:12—“A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” • Join or form alliances: churches, nonprofits, legal advocates, medical professionals. Living a Lifestyle of Advocacy • James 1:27 defines pure religion as “to look after orphans and widows in their distress.” • Isaiah 1:17 commands, “Learn to do right; seek justice, correct the oppressor.” • Ongoing habits: – Budget generosity: set aside funds specifically for vulnerable groups. – Hospitable living: open your home to refugees, foster children, single parents. – Gospel witness: ultimate rescue is found in Christ; share Him while meeting temporal needs. Conclusion: Walking in Esther’s Footsteps Because Scripture is true and authoritative, Esther’s story is not a mere inspiration but a divine pattern. By sensing the need, preparing our hearts, using our positions, acting courageously, undergirding efforts with prayer, partnering widely, and maintaining a lifestyle of advocacy, we actively fulfill God’s call to defend the vulnerable today. |
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