FAITH IN THE FACE OF FEAR AND ADVERSITY

February 26, 2025

TEXT: “Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish.” (Esther 4:16)

Today’s discussion centers on maintaining strong faith even in the midst of great adversity. In the passage from which our text is taken, Esther found herself in a situation where she had to either stay put and enjoy her newfound status as a queen in a foreign land or take action. Her uncle, Mordecai, had a superiority-based clash with Haman, who had just been promoted by King Ahasuerus. Haman had then sought the king’s permission to wipe out all the Jews, who were Esther’s people. Esther was the only one who could save them.

Unfortunately, there was a custom that unless summoned by the king, no one could enter the king’s bedchamber to beseech him or take any action. Failure to comply could result in death. The challenge was daunting, but Esther was under immense pressure. Even her uncle urged her to act, saying that if she didn’t, someone else would. However, Esther remained unperturbed. She embarked on a risky adventure, starting with declaring prayers and fasting, and then planned to go into the inner court of the king, expecting the worst (death) to occur.

This singular act of the queen remains heroic to this day and ultimately saved her people from untimely death.

KEY DEDUCTIONS

Fear may be palpable in some instances, but faith can propel us to take the right and courageous decision. (Hebrews 11:1)
Prayer and fasting can move mountains. Esther believed in the power of prayer and fasting, and it eventually led them to victory. (Matthew 17:18-20)
Esther believed that God had control over every earthly king. Despite the strict rules governing entry into the king’s chambers, she took a bold step of faith and actualized her dreams.

In summary, Queen Esther used her position boldly to solve her people’s problems.

SEARCHLIGHT: Without boldness, it may be impossible to move some mountains.

PRAYER: My Father, embolden me to face my fears, in Jesus’ name.

BIBLE READING: 1 Samuel 11-13, 1 Corinthians 4

PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE