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Esther — Woman of Courage
Esther’s Story: The Book of Esther
In the Word
Then Esther told them … “I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:15a, 16b).
Of the Word
Like a TV drama, Esther’s story had a beauty contest, sinister plots, betrayal, and courage. Esther, a Judean, was taken captive by an edict of the king because he was looking for a replacement wife. From all the women in the king’s harem, beautiful Esther was the one chosen. God had a plan for her!
An evil plot had been laid to destroy all the Jews of the kingdom. Esther, being a Jew, would not have escaped. After three days of praying and fasting she summoned the courage to go before the king unannounced, which could have resulted in her death. Esther was not turned away. The king learned of the evil plot, and the Jews were saved.
Confronting problems isn’t easy but ignoring them can cause serious consequences. Where can we find courage to say what has to be said or do what has to be done? … fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10). Our God is bigger than any problem we will ever face. We can rely on God’s promise to always be with us.
Walking with my Lord
Holy Spirit, embolden me with courage to do what I must. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Mustard Seed: Daughters of the King. Marcia Gomulka and Myrna Lou Meyer, authors. 18/34 ©2013 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from the ESV Bible® (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers.
