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A Defining Moment

Most of our lives don’t have that “movie moment.” That instant when everything turns. The do-or-die that everything hinges on. Perhaps we fantasize about it—what we would do in the moment we know will define us. But for the most part, it’s just fantasy.

Mordecai’s words to Esther are among the most well-known lines in all of Scripture. They ring with purpose, urgency, and the unmistakable call to courage. Esther stood at a crossroads—either hide in the safety of the palace, or risk her life by stepping into the dangerous unknown for the sake of others.

Her response is equally powerful: “If I perish, I perish” (v.16). With that statement, Esther embraces a kind of bravery that doesn’t come from confidence in the outcome, but confidence in God. She doesn’t know if she’ll survive. She doesn’t have a guaranteed success story.

What she does have is conviction, identity, and a clear call to act.

As men, we often long for a life of meaning. We want to know that what we do matters. That our actions impact the world, our families, our communities.

The truth is, we all have “for such a time as this” moments. They might not come with the drama of standing before a king, but they do come with decisions that carry weight: standing up for truth when it’s unpopular, protecting the vulnerable when it’s risky, speaking hard words in love, and leading with integrity when compromise is easier.

The temptation to stay silent, to stay safe, can be powerful. But God doesn’t necessarily call us to safety—He calls us to faithfulness. He places us in positions of influence, not for our own comfort, but to reflect His character and carry out His purposes.

Esther shows us that courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s acting in spite of it. It’s trusting that God has placed you exactly where you are for a reason. And even if the cost is high, obedience is worth it.

Look at your life. Your family. Your workplace. Your church. Where is God calling you to speak? To act? To stand?

This isn’t about being reckless—it’s about being faithful. You might be the only man in the room willing to do the right thing.

That might be exactly why you’re there.

Prayer: God, give me the courage to act when You call. Help me not to shrink back in fear or hide in comfort. Use my life for Your purposes, even when it’s hard. May I be faithful in this moment You’ve placed me in. Amen.

Reflection: What is your “for such a time as this” moment right now? Where is God calling you to be courageous, even at a cost?