The Importance of Courage

Not too long ago after Sunday morning service the pastor at my home chuch approached me to pray. He prayed specifically for me to have the courage of Esther. I went home and read the book of Esther. I don't know about you, but I usually have a hard time understanding bible stories well enough to apply them to my life. This story, however, struck me in such a way that I strongly connected with who Esther was and what she did.

Chapter 4 is my favorite chapter of the book. In this chapter, Mordecai, Esther's cousin, tries to persuade her to help the Jewish people. At this time, Esther was queen and, being in the luxury of the palace, did not know of Haman's death wish for the Jews. Haman was someone the king honored and gave him a seat higher than the other nobles. Mordecai overheard Haman's plan and, with this newfound knowledge, approached Esther for help. Now in Esther's day, even the queen did not approach the king unless called upon. But do you know what Esther's response was?

Esther 4:16 " I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish."

Would you have the courage to do that? I don't know if I would, but I do know there comes a time in our lives when we need to recognize the crisis and meet it head on. Maybe the crisis is as big as the threatened extermination of a race, like in this story, or perhaps it's something we encounter in our own daily lives.

After thinking through and reading this story, I feel renewed. I have a new perspective on why I make music and have gained confidence to allow God to use me as He sees fit.

I pray that you too are encouraged by the story of Esther and her willingness to stand up for what is right.. She trusted God. Have courage and trust God this week!