““Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.”” Esther 4:16
Fast. Pray. Plan.
I love the story of Esther. A woman perfectly placed in a bizarre situation who saves an entire nation through her courage and conviction.
Who wouldn’t want to be that girl?
Terrified
She had to be absolutely petrified with fear. She knew she had to approach the king. Without his invitation, she knew that entering his presence could mean a death sentence for her.
Fast and pray while I plan
What does she do? She asks for the help of all the Jews. She requests that all the Jews in Susa fast and pray for three days. Then, she plans.
What does this have to do with me?
Sometimes things in my life feel like life or death. Maybe they are actually life or death in yours. When life gets completely overwhelming or there is a huge scary risk that I know I should take, when fear is knocking at my door, I should take a page out of Esther’s book.
The trick for overcoming fear is taking action. Part of that action is to fast and pray to seek the Lord’s direction. Plan to do something – then DO IT before you can chicken out.
Action Step:
Our Focus today is FASTING!
Fasting: giving up or skipping something in favor of spending time with God. Traditionally, not eating, but can be a fast from social media, television, books, or certain types of food or drink.
What can you fast today? What decision do you need guidance on? Pray about it today. Plan a step you can take action on. Do it right now. Follow the example of the savior of a nation – Esther.
Prayer:
Dear God, thank You for inspiring characters in the Bible that we can learn from. It is awesome to see people of faith, men and women, who follow You and make a real difference in the lives of others. Help us to follow their example. In Jesus’ name, amen.
