The brave intercession of Esther is one of the unique annals of biblical history, where a remarkable story of courage and selflessness inspires us to be more than we thought possible.
Esther, a young Jewish woman, was unexpectedly thrust into the position of queen in the vast Persian Empire. Little did she know that her journey would lead her to a momentous decision, one that would alter the course of history for her people.
Her bravery serves as an enduring example of how one person’s courage can make an indelible mark on the world.
Anchor Bible Verse of the Day on the Brave Intercession of Esther:
Then Queen Esther answered and said, ‘If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it pleases the king, let my life be given me at my petition, and my people at my request.’
Esther 7:3 (NKJV)
Esther 7:3 sums up the defining moment in Esther’s life, where she chose to intercede on behalf of her people, the Jews, before the mighty King Xerxes. This verse emphasizes her extraordinary courage, selflessness, and willingness to risk her own life for the welfare of her people.
It serves as a reminder of the power of intercession and the difference one person can make when they stand up for what is right.
Key Explanations:
- Let my life be given me at my petition, and my people at my request: Esther’s willingness to approach the king uninvited was an audacious act that summarizes her unwavering resolve to stand up for her people, even at the risk of her own life.
Reflection on The Brave Intercession of Esther
Beloved, Esther’s story of brave intercession is not just a historical account but a profound lesson for us today.
It reminds us that we all have a role to play in standing up for justice, even in the face of adversity.
Esther’s journey of courage and intercession can inspire us to make a positive impact on our world, one brave step at a time.
1. The Power of Courageous Intercession:
Esther’s bold approach to King Xerxes, despite the risk to her own life, mirrors the courage displayed by others in the Bible. Consider Daniel, who fearlessly prayed in defiance of a royal decree.
In Daniel 6:10, we read:
Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in his upper room, with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days.
The story of Esther reminds us that courage can inspire profound change, just as Daniel’s courage brought him closer to God. The actions of both of them teach us that sometimes, it takes courage to make a difference
2. The Call to Selflessness:
Esther’s act of intercession stands as a testament to the power of selflessness. Similarly, the apostle Paul, in Philippians 2:3-4, implores us:
Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests but also for the interests of others.
Esther’s selfless concern for her people mirrors Paul’s call to prioritize the well-being of others over personal gain. It challenges us to evaluate our actions in light of this selfless love.
In a world often marked by self-interest, selfless acts of kindness, empathy, and advocacy can create ripples of positive change in our communities and beyond.
3. Standing Up for Justice:
Esther’s courageous intercession for her people echoes the Bible’s call for justice. Proverbs 31:8-9 urges:
Open your mouth for the speechless, in the cause of all who are appointed to die. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.
Esther recognized the moral obligation to stand up for justice, just as this verse exhorts us to advocate for those in dire situations. Her story serves as a vivid reminder that our actions, no matter how small, can contribute to a more just and compassionate world.
We know the Jews faced an imminent threat to their lives, and she recognized the moral obligation to take action. Her brave intercession halted a grave injustice and ensured the safety of her people.
A Call to Action:
Today, let’s take Esther’s brave intercession to heart. Let’s reflect on the areas in our lives where we can make a positive impact through courage, selflessness, and advocacy.
Whether it’s standing up against injustice, advocating for those in need, or simply extending a hand of kindness, we have the power to be agents of change in our world.
Prayer Points for Today:
- Pray for the courage to step out of your comfort zone and advocate for those in need.
- Ask God to cultivate selflessness in your heart, enabling you to prioritize the well-being of others.
- Pray for discernment to recognize situations where you can make a positive impact and advocate for justice.
Let’s Pray
Our Father, we thank You for the inspiring example of Queen Esther and her brave intercession. Grant us the courage to stand up for justice, the selflessness to prioritize the needs of others, and the wisdom to discern where we can make a positive impact in our world.
May our actions be a testament to Your love and compassion. In Jesus’ precious and mighty name, we pray. Amen.
My prayer for you today: As we embrace the lessons from Esther’s brave intercession, may we become catalysts for positive change, bringing light to the darkest corners of our world.
