Courage to speak up

Have you ever considered, “Why am I going through this in my life? Why did I walk through that or go down that road? Is God really paying attention? Does He really care about me? Does God have a plan and purpose for me?”

There may be lots of times in life that we all ask those kinds of questions. The truth is that God is at work in your life in any and all circumstances. 28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

One of the greatest examples of God’s sovereign hand at work in this world is found in the book of Esther. Esther’s story reads like a Hollywood script, full of drama and intrigue! If you haven’t read it, I encourage you to read it! The bottom line is that Esther, a young, beautiful Jewish woman finds herself providentially elevated to queen of the vast Persian Empire and in position to save her people!

The Israelites had been condemned to die by the king. Esther’s adopted father Mordecai challenges her with these words: 14 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. After much prayer and fasting, and a series of providential acts, Esther is able to convince the king to reverse his decree. Now, you really to read this story in Esther to see how this amazing story unfolds.

What do we learn from Esther’s story?

God is at work in all circumstances! God is large and in charge. He is sovereign over all things. Nothing happens by chance… He is moving people and situations to ultimately accomplish His plan and purpose. Do you trust Him?

God has a plan for your life! You may not know what God is doing in your life, but a time may come when it all comes together for you. You may look back and realize that is why you were in that place, went through that trail, encountered that person, walked through that tunnel of chaos… it was all part of God’s ultimate plan. Each moment, each experience, each encounter was “for such a time as this.” Will you trust God’s plan and purpose? Will you look for what He may be teaching you or how He may be using you?

Fasting and prayer brings clarity to His will. Esther had the courage to admit she needed God’s help! She wanted to focus on Him and His will… She needed His divine insight and direction before she spoke up. She gathered people to pray with and for her. Will you ask others to pray with and for you? Maybe you will join a Life Group at Watermark to do that.

God will give you the courage to speak up! “I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” Esther 4:16. Do you need courage to speak up for Christ’s sake, to share your testimony, to encourage someone far from Christ?

For much more, please listen to Courage Part 6: Courage to Speak Up!