Life Lessons: Move Boldly (Esther)

Reading: Esther 5

By nature, I’m not a risk taker. I can get my bristles up but I’m never going to be excited about heading into the unknown or the hazardous adventure that awaits. However, life is not exactly as we like and the unknown and hazardous come eventually. I hope that when they come, I approach those moments with the same boldness and grace of Queen Esther. In chapter 5 we find Esther heading to meet the king and an unknown future. 

If you look back earlier in her story, you'll notice that she took three days to pray and prepare. She didn’t just rush in with all of her emotions on display. Nor did she go in demanding or even trying to seduce him into her way of seeing things. She was patient and thoughtful as she prepared for the task ahead. She knew this was not something to be rushed into without careful consideration and lots of time spent with the Lord. We should approach our lives in the same way with careful consideration, ample patience and plenty of prayer. 

I love preparation. It makes me feel safe and secure so I totally get Esther's approach BUT eventually you have to move. The question is are we going to move boldly or meekly? This question is even more important when the task is from the Lord. Esther chooses to move deliberately and boldly. She steps forward into the king’s hall steadfast in her mission but without certainty about the outcome. Her faith rested in her Lord and I’m guessing He was what made those last few steps into the sightline of the king possible. 

Once more we see Esther’s wisdom when the king, who is thankfully pleased to see her, offers her anything she wishes up to half the kingdom. Would you have blurted out that you wanted the Jews protected or that you wanted Haman’s head on a plate? It would be tempting no doubt but Esther wasn’t acting on a whim. Remember, she and all those who loved her had been in prayer for three days asking for godly wisdom concerning this event. Esther wasn’t going to waste her opportunity by jumping ahead of herself and she knew that she needed more than just her word to secure the safety of her people so she set her plan in place. More waiting, more praying, more uncertainty. But God…

Today’s Prayer

Lord, help me move boldly when you call me to and to wait patiently when that is Your will, as well. Help me to believe that You can work all things together for the good of those that love you. Help me to always blanket everything I do in prayer and help me to always seek godly wisdom for the challenges of my life.