She was an unlikely leader, but her love for Jesus moved her to action. From the beginning of her life, she was not what the world would call “strong.” Born a premature baby, she was an ordinary woman who never married and did not have a college education. For years, she quietly worked in the family business and hosted a Christian club for young girls in her community.
During a time of chaos and distress, her devotion to Jesus sustained her. She was nearing 50 years of age when the Nazi’s invaded her home country. This was when the compassion of her loving God compelled her to step out and sacrifice her own security to provide safe haven for the oppressed Jewish people in her community. Corrie Ten Boom became a leader in the Dutch resistance movement, and her courageous leadership spoke louder than the hatred of her ungodly adversaries. Her sacrificial response saved lives and has left an eternal legacy.
Esther was an unlikely leader. The orphan transformed into queen was a vulnerable woman in a precarious situation. She had not chosen her esteemed position, but rather she was placed in a palace by a dictatorial king who demanded all allegiance. Up to this point in her story, she had submitted to authority in silence. Now the call had come for her to expose her true identity and to speak up for the oppressed.
To the world, she seemed completely powerless to make a difference. Her tiny voice might not even be heard, so why should she even risk it? Perhaps she should just preserve her own life and not plead for her people. The repercussions seemed more probable than a rewarding outcome.
Friend, maybe you have wondered if you should stay silent in a situation you are dealing with because the risk seems stronger than the reward. You may not be the queen of a political kingdom, but I am guessing you have experienced the anxiety and confusion that Esther must have felt on this day. Perhaps you have been compelled to speak or act on behalf of your people — your children, your church community, or your neighbor may need your help. The injustice in this world attacks the defenseless, and the Spirit of God within us calls us to take action and fight for their protection.
Do you feel powerless to make a difference? Remind yourself you are not fighting alone. Greater is He who is in you than the unjust earthly authority that shouts in your world.
Corrie and Esther’s stories should encourage our unsteady hearts to not give way to fear but to trust that God’s faithful love will serve as our sure foundation. Earthly authority may not give an audience to our petitions, but as God’s royal daughters we always have total access to the loving ear of God Almighty. You and I can confidently approach His throne of grace today and find the mercy and help we desperately need for whatever situation we are facing.
God’s loyal love and truth will forever uphold you and provide the strength that you need to speak with courage and step forward with His kindness in this world. Your Heavenly Father has extended an open invitation for you to serve as an unlikely leader who continually advocates on behalf of His children in distress. Take your petition straight to the King of Kings today and know that He will respond with compassion on behalf of you and your people.
