I’ve never considered myself brave. In fact, I’m often the one who shies away from confrontation or anything that makes me uneasy. I’d wait for the “right moment” or for courage to show up. But what if I told you that courage isn’t always the key? What if it’s obedience that holds the real power?
The Story of Esther: A Lesson in Obedience
Esther was an orphan who found herself chosen as the queen of Persia. But her story takes a turn when she learns of a plot to destroy her people, the Jews. Her cousin Mordecai urges her to go to the king and speak up. But there’s a catch: approaching the king uninvited is a crime punishable by death.
Imagine her fear. She could have easily backed down. But instead, Esther chose obedience. In one of her most powerful lines, she says, “If I perish, I perish.” She didn’t wait for bravery to show up—she obeyed, trusting that God would lead her through. Her transformation from fear to obedience is a beacon of hope for us all.
Obedience Over Bravery
What struck me most about Esther was that she wasn’t waiting to feel brave. She wasn’t even sure what would happen if she obeyed. Yet, she moved forward because obedience, not bravery, was the key.
It made me realize that I don’t need to feel brave to step forward. I just need to be obedient. It’s not about waiting for courage to strike—it’s about trusting God and doing what He’s calling me to do, even if it’s scary.
Why Obedience Is More Powerful Than Bravery
Obedience doesn’t rely on our emotions or how brave we feel in the moment. Bravery often depends on our ability to overcome fear, but obedience is about trusting a higher purpose.
In my own life, I’ve learned that obedience isn’t about feeling fearless—it’s about choosing to trust and act, even when fear is present. And sometimes, those seemingly small acts of obedience open doors I never imagined. It’s a reminder that even the smallest acts of obedience can have a powerful impact.
Taking Action, Even Without Bravery
So, the next time you’re faced with a decision or a challenge, remember Esther. You don’t have to be brave to do the right thing—you just need to obey. Obedience is what opens the door for God to work in your life. This truth should reassure you and give you confidence in your faith journey.
Personally, I’ve started taking action, even when I don’t feel brave. Because I know that obedience, no matter how small, is enough. Whether it’s speaking up in a difficult conversation or taking a step of faith in my career, I’ve seen how God can work through my obedience.
