Rising Above Fear: Drawing Inspiration from the Biblical Story of Esther

The biblical story of Esther has always been one of encouragement to me. Her bravery to go before the king—in spite of being called to him, knowing she could face death as a result—has helped me recognize the power to be found in speaking up in the face of fear.

This past week focusing on her story, I caught another glimpse of truth I hadn’t seen before. Though her voice was heard by her husband, the king, by law, couldn’t change the decree that had already been sent out to destroy her people, the Jews. The only thing he could do was allow another notice to be sent out in his name. So, another one was sent. Only this time, “the kings decree gave the Jews in every city authority to unite to defend their lives. They were allowed to kill, slaughter, and annihilate anyone of any nationality or province who might attack them or their children and wives and to take the property of their enemies.” (Esther 8:11)

What caught me this time around, was the truth that the Jews circumstances didn’t change. THEY changed! Instead of sitting back and being slaughtered, they rose to the occasion and fought back. And in doing so, they saved themselves and their loved ones.

As people-pleasers, I think sometimes we are so consumed with keeping others happy and protecting ourselves, that we succumb to the temptation of doing nothing. Historically for me, when it came to raising a fuss or letting sleeping dogs lie, I allowed them to lie. The only problem in doing this is I remained the one on the slaughtering floor. What I had to learn along the way is that I had the power within me. I just had to be willing to take a stand instead of sitting passively by. 

My circumstances didn’t change, I changed!

And today, I am stronger for it.

Esther’s story continues to encourage me and remind me that sometimes this is what has to happen when we are fighting life’s battles.

How about you? Do you find yourself on the battlefield ready to fight, or ready to die? What keeps you in this place or gives you strength to stand up and fight for yourself? Comment or message me. I’d love to hear from you.

Til next time,