by Janice Conyers & Tracee Padilla by Janice Conyers & Tracee Padilla
THE STORY OF ESTHER
For Such A Time As This
Today’s Verse:
“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" – Esther 4:14 (NIV)
Reflection
Which one of us would have the courage to wear these shoes; the shoes of Esther? Her story brings to life the statement, “For such a time as this...” From that one moment, everything changed. Esther’s journey is a powerful example of overcoming fear and taking bold steps of faith, even when the stakes were incredibly high Her bravery inspires me to find my own courage and trust in God’s plan, no matter how scary it may seem at times.
The Story of Esther
Esther was a young Jewish woman living in Persia, chosen to be queen by King Xerxes. But her journey to royalty was not a fairy tale it was filled with fear and uncertainty. When Esther became queen, she hid her Jewish identity, not knowing that she would soon face a decision that could cost her life.
The king’s advisor, Haman, devised a plot to annihilate all the Jews in the kingdom. Esther’s cousin, Mordecai, urged her to plead with the king on behalf of her people This was no small request Approaching the king without being summoned could result in death. Imagine the fear and doubt that must have gripped Esther’s heart. She could have easily remained silent, safe in the palace, hoping someone else would step up.
But Mordecai’s words resonated with her: “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14, NIV). Esther knew she had to act. With courage and faith, she declared, “I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16, NIV).
With trembling hands and a brave heart, she approached the king Esther revealed Haman’s evil plan, risking her own life to save her people. Her courageous faith turned the tide and brought deliverance to the Jews, demonstrating the power of stepping out in faith even in the face of great danger.
Practical Takeaway:
Esther faced immense fear and risked her life for her people Her story reminds us that God places us in specific situations for a purpose. When we step out in faith, trusting God’s plan, we can overcome our fears and make a significant impact.
Think About It:
1.
How can we follow Esther’s example and show courage in our lives?
2.
How can we trust God and obey His will, even when it seems impossible or risky?
How can we resist the temptation to take matters into our own hands, and wait for God’s timing and guidance?
4.
3. How can we be humble, patient, and merciful, even when we are wronged or persecuted?
Esther’s story challenges us to consider the moments in our own lives when we’re called to step up, even when it’s scary. We may not be facing a king or risking our lives, but we all encounter situations that require courage and faith. Whether it’s speaking up when something isn’t right, standing up for someone in need, or making a tough decision, God places us in positions for a reason. The key is to embrace the courage to act, because it’s in your actions where faitih is developed.
Bible Study Faith Building:
DISCUSS THE STORY OF ESTHER
How did Esther’s trust in God help her face her challenges?
What are some modern-day “Esther” moments you face, and how can Esther's story inspire you?
REFLECT ON PERSONAL EXPERIENCES
Share a time when you had to act courageously in your faith.
How did God’s presence and promises help you in that situation?
ENCOURAGE EACH OTHER
Share testimonies of how God has worked through your courageous actions. Support each other in prayer, asking God for boldness and faith.
This week, identify one ‘Esther’ moment in your life and take a step of faith to confront it.
THE STORY OF DAVID
What Shoes Will You Wear?
Today’s Verse:
"David said to the Philistine, 'You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.'" I Samuel 17:45 NIV
Reflection
Courage means acting on our beliefs and values, even when we face challenges or difficulties. Fear can paralyze us; courage helps us move ahead. Courage does not erase fear; it makes it insignificant. It fills us with a hopeful confidence that we can overcome any challenge! God gives us an extra source of strength in times of trouble if we ask for it. This should make us bold to face any situation we encounter.
The Story of David
Consider David. His story is told in I Samuel 17 where he showed courage when he killed the bear and lion while tending his father’s flocks of sheep. And of course, everyone remembers David defeating Goliath, but is that all of this story that we remember?
David's courage was not only seen in his victory over Goliath, but also in his preparation for the battle. He had to persuade King Saul to let him face the giant, even though he was only a young shepherd boy He had to reject the king's offer of armor and weapons, knowing that they would hinder him rather than help him. He had to trust in God and his own skill with a sling and a stone, while facing the mockery and threats of Goliath and his army.
David showed courage by being faithful to his purpose and calling, obedient to God's will, and confident in God's power. He did not let fear or doubt stop him from doing what was right.
David's courage was also seen in his escape from King Saul, who wanted to kill him out of jealousy and fear. David had been anointed by Samuel as the next king of Israel, but he did not try to assume Saul's throne or harm him in any way. He respected Saul as God's appointed ruler and waited for God's timing He fled from Saul's pursuit, hiding in caves and wilderness, and sparing Saul's life twice
when he had the opportunity to kill him. He also refused to let his men harm Saul or his loyalists. David showed courage by being humble, patient, and merciful. He did not let anger or revenge drive him to do what was wrong.
Practical Takeaway:
David's courage was a gift from God and a testimony to his faithfulness. The more he practiced courage, the easier it became for him to trust and EXPECT God to move on his behalf. He faced many challenges and dangers but never gave up or compromised his integrity. He was a man after God's own heart, and God blessed him and his descendants David's story is an inspiration and a challenge for us today.
Think About It:
1.
How many different ways did you identify courage in David’s journey?
2
How does David’s confidence in God challenge your approach in difficult situations?
What “Goliath’s” are you facing right now, and how can you rely on God’s power to confront them?
4.
3. How can you cultivate a deeper trust in God’s provision and protection for your daily life?
We all have our own David and Goliath moments, when we face situations that seem overwhelming or hopeless. But we also have the same God who helped David, and who promises to be with us and strengthen us. He has given us his Spirit, His Word, and His Church to equip us and encourage us. He has also given us a greater King than David, His Son Jesus Christ, who died for our sins and rose again to give us eternal life. He is the true source of our courage and our hope.
Bible Study Faith Building:
DISCUSS THE STORY OF DAVID
How can we follow David’s example and sh courage in our lives?
How can we be humble, patient, and merci even when we are wronged and persecute
REFLECT ON PERSONAL EXPERIENCES
How can we trust God and obey His will, even when it seems impossible and risky?
How can we resist temptaion to take matters into our own hands, and wait for God’s timing and guidance?
ENCOURAGE EACH OTHER
Share testimonies of how God has worked through your courageous actions. Support each other in prayer, asking God for boldness and faith.
This week, identify one ‘Goliath’ situation in your life and take a step of faith to confront it.
by Tracee Padilla & Janice Conyers
Introducing our brand-new Bible study, “Courageous Faith: How to Live Boldly for Christ,” launching September 16th.
Are you ready to take your faith journey to the next level? Our “Courageous Faith” series has been a powerful journey of discovering boldness in Christ. Now, we ’ ve compiled it into an in-depth Bible study available for purchase, perfect for both individuals and groups!
What’s Included:
Interactive Flipbook or PDF format for easy access. Weekly Themes with Bible verses, reflections, and practical action points. Personal Stories and testimonies to inspire you. Group Study Structure with discussion questions and prayer prompts.
Join us on this life-changing journey. Strengthen your faith, embrace boldness, and discover how God can use you when you step out in courageous faith.
