In what ways can we seek God's guidance when facing challenges like Esther? Facing the Challenge—Esther 9:13 “Esther replied, ‘If it pleases the king, may the Jews in Susa also be allowed tomorrow to carry out today’s edict, and may the ten sons of Haman be hanged on the gallows.’ ” (Esther 9:13) Seeing Esther’s Heart • She discerns that the threat is not yet fully removed. • She speaks plainly but respectfully. • She trusts that God, who orchestrated her rise to queenship, will finish what He began (Esther 4:14). Ways We Can Seek God’s Guidance When Challenges Arise • Depend on Prayer and Fasting – Esther’s earlier call: “Go, gather all the Jews... fast for me” (Esther 4:16). – Philippians 4:6-7—prayer replaces anxiety with peace. • Search the Scriptures – Psalm 119:105—“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – God’s revealed Word filters emotions and opinions, grounding decisions in truth. • Ask for Wisdom Directly – James 1:5—“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given to him.” – Esther’s strategy shows that God answers the plea for insight. • Seek God-Fearing Counsel – Proverbs 11:14—“With many counselors there is deliverance.” – Mordecai’s earlier counsel (Esther 4:13-14) sharpened Esther’s resolve. • Weigh Motives Honestly – Psalm 139:23-24—invite the Lord to examine heart and motives. – Esther’s aim is protection of God’s covenant people, not personal revenge. • Wait for God’s Timing – Ecclesiastes 3:1—“To everything there is a season.” – Esther does not rush; she petitions at the right moment before the king (Esther 5:1-8; 9:13). • Act in Courageous Obedience – Joshua 1:9—“Be strong and courageous… for the LORD your God is with you.” – Guidance becomes evident as we step forward; clarity grows through obedience, not passivity. • Trust God with Outcomes – Proverbs 3:5-6—“Trust in the LORD with all your heart… and He will make your paths straight.” – Esther requests bold measures, then leaves the outcome to God’s providential hand. Living It Out Today • Present every decision—large or small—to the Lord first. • Immerse your mind daily in Scripture, tuning your ear to God’s voice. • Surround yourself with believers who prize biblical wisdom over mere opinion. • Move ahead when God gives peace and confirmation, confident that He rules over kings and circumstances alike (Proverbs 21:1). |
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