What can we learn from Esther's courage in approaching the king again? Setting the Scene The decree to annihilate the Jews, sealed under Haman’s authority (Esther 3:13), still stands. Though Haman is gone (Esther 7:10), the irreversible Persian law remains. Esther has already risked her life once (Esther 5:1-2); now she must approach the throne again. Esther 8:3 — A Second Risk “Then Esther spoke again to the king. She fell at his feet, weeping and pleading with him to avert the evil plot of Haman the Agagite and the scheme that he had devised against the Jews.” What Courage Looks Like • Continual bravery — “spoke again,” showing faithfulness is lived out repeatedly (Galatians 6:9). • Honest emotion — tears yet unshaken resolve (Psalm 56:3-4). • Humble posture — she bows, respecting authority while appealing to justice (Romans 13:3-4). • Targeted intercession — names the danger and asks for reversal (Exodus 32:11-14). • Identification with God’s people — risks privilege for covenant family (Philippians 2:4). Why She Could Be Brave 1. Providential memory — the king’s prior favor (Esther 5:2; 1 Samuel 17:37). 2. Secure identity — no longer hiding her heritage (Esther 7:3-4; 1 Peter 2:9). 3. Prayer-saturated life — the fast of chapter 4 forged courage (Philippians 4:6-7). 4. Trust in promise — God’s covenant with Abraham stands (Genesis 17:7-8). Courageous Intercession in Scripture • Nehemiah before Artaxerxes (Nehemiah 2:1-5). • Daniel before Darius (Daniel 6:10). • Apostles before the Sanhedrin (Acts 4:19-20). Living the Lesson • Approach the true King: “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence” (Hebrews 4:16). • Persist: one victory is not final (Ephesians 6:13). • Advocate for the vulnerable: “Rescue those being led away to death” (Proverbs 24:11-12). • Blend humility with clarity: respect authority yet expose evil (Esther 8:6). • Expect deliverance: Esther’s plea becomes Purim’s pivot (Esther 9:1). Key Takeaways • God honors believers who press in again when battles persist. • Courage thrives on faith, identity in God, and prayer. • The Lord who guided Esther still invites bold partnership, and His Word never fails (Isaiah 40:8). |
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