Anyone can act with “courage” when there is no personal risk involved! So, how did Esther find the courage to risk her life before the king? What is the key that unlocks the mystery of courage?

Sometimes the fear of man, fear of death, or fear of conflict stifles you. You shrink back defeated, afraid, and wonder if you lost your last chance to act. Esther certainly felt the fear of man, and she may have given in to it when she came face to face with Haman, the one who wanted to exterminate all of her Jewish tribe!

People have forever relied on “false gods” whenever they cease to trust in the Savior. False gods take many forms. Haman trusted in the idols of position, power, and influence. He worshiped the gods of happiness and honor, coveting them alongside his love for riches and glory. Haman is an example of what a lack of humility ultimately cultivates — a heart puffed up with pride, a foolish confidence in ourselves and others, and a life that teeters on the balance beam of ruin. All who lean on false gods or self sufficiency, walk in darkness (Ephesians 5:3-8) and eventually will fall (1 John 2:11).

Esther was first a heroine who saved her people from genocide and secondly, an imperfect example of humility, wisdom, and courage for us! The Jews celebrate the Feast of Purim to celebrate Esther their redeemer, but some choose not to imitate her. Humility comes before courage. This is why you need humility to cultivate courage.

Since Jesus has already accomplished our salvation, Christians must humbly rely on the Savior’s strength to call upon courage when the “hour of decision” arrives, or trust God for another opportunity if momentarily overwhelmed by fear, and guard against the pride that often ends in a painful loss.

Only people who rely on Jesus the Savior in humility, will develop the courage to follow and obey him. God the king extends his scepter today to you. That scepter is the cross of Christ. Jesus is the only way for you to gain God’s favor. Won’t you humble yourself, reach out, and take hold of him? May God give you courage to do so!

And be encouraged! God is in control of our weaknesses and is able to strengthen us again!

~ Mary Lindow ^©

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” THE MESSENGER ” ~ Mary Lindow
www.marylindow.com
Global Prayer Rooms

Mary Lindow has a passion for encouraging others in all generations and careers or vocations to live and express excellence through personal integrity, healthy accountability, and wise management of talents and skills. She is a sought after keynote inspirational and humorous speaker and teacher throughout the United States internationally in Ministers conferences, International Spiritual leaders Conferences, and in National and International training seminars for various organizations.

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