What can we learn from Esther's courage in Esther 4:15 for today? Text in Focus: Esther 4:15–16 “Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: ‘Go and assemble all the Jews who can be found in Susa, and fast for me; do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. My maidens and I will fast likewise. After that, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.’” Context and Meaning • A death decree hangs over every Jew in Persia (4:7–8). • Mordecai urges Esther to act, warning that silence is not safety (4:13–14). • Esther chooses self-sacrifice over self-preservation, calling for united fasting before stepping into danger (4:15–16). Timeless Lessons from Esther’s Courage • Courage grows in community – Esther asks her people to fast; bold faith is fortified together (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Obedience may require risk – She approaches the king “though it is against the law.” God’s will can supersede human regulations (Acts 5:29). • True identity must not stay hidden – This moment ends Esther’s secrecy; we, too, are called to public allegiance to God (Matthew 5:14–16). • Submission to God’s sovereignty frees us from fear – “If I perish, I perish” rests on God’s control of life and death (Job 13:15; Philippians 1:20–21). Seeing Jesus in Esther’s Stand • Like Esther, Jesus interceded at personal cost, entering the presence of the King for His people (Hebrews 9:24–26). • Both models teach sacrificial mediation—risking all so others might live (John 15:13). Practical Takeaways for Today • Seek God first in crisis—fasting or dedicated prayer invites divine direction. • Align with fellow believers; shared spiritual disciplines ignite shared boldness. • Step into God-given opportunities even when timing feels dangerous or inconvenient. • Leave outcomes to the Lord; faithfulness matters more than guarantees of safety. • Remember that private faith must become public witness when God opens the door. Supporting Scriptures • Joshua 1:9—“Be strong and courageous…for the LORD your God is with you.” • 2 Timothy 1:7—“God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” • Romans 12:1—Offer yourselves as “living sacrifices.” • Psalm 56:3–4—“When I am afraid, I will trust in You.” • Proverbs 21:1—“The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD…He directs it like a watercourse.” |
    |