Leading With a WhisperSample

When God Calls You into Hard Places

I used to think that saying yes to God would lead to ease and open doors. But I quickly learned that obedience often leads to difficulty—at least at first. Like Esther, I found myself in places I never expected. She was called into the palace, yes—but it was a palace filled with political manipulation, sexual exploitation, and fear.

God didn’t call her there for comfort. He called her there to be a deliverer.

When we say yes to God, we don’t get to choose the setting. We just choose obedience. Over the years, I’ve walked into nations and rooms that carried real cost. And yet, each step I took, I knew the Spirit had gone before me.

If God is calling you into a hard place—a place of uncertainty or sacrifice—know this: He is already there. He doesn’t promise comfort, but He does promise presence. And sometimes, the darkest spaces are where His light shines the brightest.

Discussion Questions:

• Has God ever called you into a place that felt uncomfortable or unsafe?
• How can you trust His presence even in difficult environments?
• What do you think God might be doing through your obedience right now?

Prayer:

Father, I choose obedience—even when it’s hard. Go before me, stay beside me, and use me in the places You’ve called me.