Guided by Grace: Vision Casting With Purposeنموونە

Esther – Pursuing Spiritual Goals with Courage and Faith

Some would think that writing out spiritual goals is one of the easiest tasks. For some, that might be the case. What is important throughout the process is to be diligent about seeking God's guidance, commit to growing in faith and trust, as well as aligning your actions with His will. The Book of Esther teaches us about stepping into God’s purpose with courage and reliance on Him. Hadassah, a young Jewish woman, whose name was changed to Esther to protect her family, had a spiritual assignment that was personal for her and her people.

The Book of Esther recounts the journey as a woman who, among many well-qualified contenders, is granted favor among everyone and rises to the role of Queen in Persia in chapter 2. So much favor that when it was time to be presented before the King, he knew immediately, who was to replace the previous Queen.

Chapter 2: 17 Now the king was attracted to Esther more than to any of the other women, and she won his favor and approval more than any of the other virgins. So he set a royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti.

The favor and influence afforded her the opportunity to save her people from a genocidal plot orchestrated by one of King Xerxes' advisor Haman. Guided by her cousin, Mordecai shares the plan with her in Esther 4:14 (NIV)

"For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?"

This conversation caused her to seek God for wisdom and strengthened her through prayer and fasting. This became a spiritual goal, which in turn allowed her to bravely approach the king to expose Haman's plan of destruction, despite the risk to her own life.

The story unfolds as a testament to God’s providence, showing how He orchestrates events to protect His people, even when His name is never explicitly mentioned. Esther let her prayer life and connection to God give her courage, faith, and willingness to act. It highlights the importance of trusting God and embracing one’s divine purpose in Esther 4:14 "For such a time as this.”

It is key to understanding this woman of profound faith and courage, shows us how pursuing spiritual goals requires stepping out in trust and obedience. Her life highlights several key principles for spiritual growth:

1. Embracing God’s Purpose:

In Esther 4:14, she is reminded that her position as Queen is not by chance but part of a divine plan set by the Father. There will be unique roles or opportunities God will place in your life to fulfill His greater plan.

2. Relying on Prayer and Fasting:

Before taking action, Esther made a sound decision. It was crucial to the outcome. She called for a time of prayer and fasting (Esther 4:16). This demonstrates the importance of seeking God’s guidance and strength when pursuing spiritual goals. Incorporating prayer and fasting enhances focus and dependence on the one true living God.

3. Acting in Faith and Courage:

Esther’s bold decision to approach the king, despite the risk to her life, required tremendous faith and confidence in God to direct the outcome. Spiritual goals often involve stepping into the unknown and trusting God to lead and provide. It will never be a comfortable place it will be God calling you to act boldly in faith.

We don’t know what will happen when we carefully walk out our spiritual goals. What has maintained consistency throughout this plan is being led by the Holy Spirit so that you know that you are walking in the direction God granted you with favor not only with him but with others as well.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of favor and unwavering faith to trust You with what seems impossible through Esther. Help us to recognize the divine opportunities You place before us and respond with courage and obedience. Teach us to seek You through prayer and fasting, knowing that You will guide us every step of the way. May the spiritual goals you help us identify reflect a heart that is completely surrendered to Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.