Precious Moments That Count For EternitySample

Taking a Stand for Christ Recently, we have been witnessing the ‘signs of the times’, which implies that we are indeed living in the end times. We are seeing earthquakes, deadly diseases, drastic weather changes and ethnic violence. But above all, persecution of Christians is rising and that’s something that affects us directly. With a change in government, the threat to us is closer home and even more real. What should our level of readiness and attitude be, when our faith is under attack? When Mordecai appealed to Esther for help in saving the Jews, her initial response was guided by fear of authority and a sense of comfort and security because of her position as the queen. When Mordecai challenged her and reminded her of the purpose of her existence in the royal family, she readily accepted her mistake and resolved to do whatever she could to save her people, even at the risk of losing her life. This decision was a major turning point in her life and in the lives of the Jews. Using God-given wisdom and boldness, she not only gained King Xerxes’ approval and saved an entire nation, but also ensured Haman’s destruction. As Mordecai rightly said, Esther was made queen ‘for such a time as this’! Whatever Esther was able to achieve was a result of her firm decision to take a stand for God and His people, perhaps knowing fully well that God Himself would support her in this cause. It is the same faith that saved Daniel from the lions and his three friends from the fiery furnace. It is very evident that God is well able to protect and give victory to those who are willing to take a stand for Him. Such boldness and confidence is a product of a deep relationship with God. Prayer Heavenly Father, give us the boldness and wisdom to be brave in the face of adversity, and help us to overcome the fear of authority or the temptation of an earthly reward, so that we can be used effectively for Your name’s sake. Amen.