Faith – Faith Requires Courage(365/138)
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Our faith is tested when the stakes are high and the cost is great. Do we retreat in fear and self-preservation or move forward in obedience?
The Bible in Esther 4, tells us that when Mordecai learns of the evil plan to annihilate the Jews, he calls his niece, Queen Esther to action, reminding her of her calling “for a time such as this” (v14). For Esther, remaining silent would mean destruction of her people but approaching the king without invitation could cost her life. Esther chooses to fast and seek God, and then bravely declares “and so I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish!” (v16). Though the stakes were high Esther reflects a heart surrendered to God, choosing obedience over self-preservation.
In 1 Samuel 15, King Saul, received a clear command from God that he was to completely destroy the Amalekites (v3). Instead of obeying God fully, he was selective - he spared King Agag and preserved the best livestock. When Samuel confronted him, he justified his actions, rather than repenting. His rebellious disobedience led to God rejecting him as king (v23).
Esther surrendered her future to God; Saul selected what he would obey. When obedience threatens our comfort, reputation, relationships, or security, do we compromise? Faith is revealed not in what we profess but in how we obey.
Pause and Ponder
Is there an area where I am delaying or modifying God's clear instruction because obedience feels costly?
What fear is competing with my trust in God today?
Who might be impacted for good if I courageously obey God's leading?
Faith does not negotiate with obedience when obedience becomes costly.
Father, forgive me for times I have allowed fear to shape my obedience. Help me courageously and humbly obey You fully. Amen.
Extended Reading: Esther 4; 1 Samuel 15
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