Sep 19, 20232 min read

Day 154 - Stand Strong and Bold in Your Faith

How often have you failed or nearly failed to stand strong and bold in your faith?

Then Esther again came before the king, falling down at his feet, and made request to him with weeping, that he would put a stop to the evil purposes of Haman the Agagite and the designs which he had made against the Jews. Then the king put out the rod of gold to Esther, and she got up before the king.

And she said, If it is the king's pleasure and if I have his approval and this thing seems right to the king and I am pleasing to him, then let letters be sent giving orders against those which Haman, the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, sent out for the destruction of the Jews in all divisions of the kingdom: (Esther 8.3-5 Bible in Basic English (BBE))

Mordecai was loyal to King Ahasuerus but even more so to his faith and the Jewish people. He defended the King repeatedly from assassination but would not kneel to Haman, the King's man. Mordecai stood firm in his belief and was willing to risk everything. In the act of love for his people and his adopted daughter, Esther, he enabled her to have an opportunity to become the King's wife. She became Queen and ultimately saved Mordecai and all Jewish people under the King's rule from death. Like Mordecai, Esther was brave and intelligent. She stood firm in her conviction and dedication to her faith. She listened and learned.

How often have you failed or nearly failed to stand strong and bold in your faith? Have you ever not said what you believe in, avoiding rocking the boat or starting a disagreement? Standing strong in Christ can be challenging. It can cause a fear that reaches your core. But you must stand strong and hold on firmly to the example Jesus gave us and to Jesus himself. No matter if you lose a friend or stranger because they do not want to believe. They are not chosen, or they are not ready to pick God. Let that awareness help you be strong and enduring. Employ prayer to help bring them to your Father.

Prayer:

Loving Lord, you are the beautiful King of all. Esther and Mordecai were people I would like to emulate in life. Intelligent and dedicated to you and your people. I want to be like that. I would be pleased if you would help me and use me to help you and your people grow closer to you in mind and heart. I await your call. Please let me see the subtleties in life where the right word or action can change others' lives positively and meaningfully. I know they exist, and I am willing to learn how to best utilize these moments for you. Like Esther and Mordecai, I live to be of service. I am grateful for your love and the opportunity to make a difference. Amen.