Thursday, April 30, 2026

Alex Buabeng-Korsah

TOPIC: COURAGE WHEN IT COSTS

THEME SCRIPTURE:  "Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish." — Esther 4:16

 

PREPARATORY QUESTION

1. Why was Esther (a queen) willing to take such a dangerous risk that included life or death?

 

Esther’s moment was not convenient— it was dangerous. Approaching the king uninvited could mean death. Yet silence would also carry a cost, not only for her but for others. She stood at a crossroads where safety and purpose could not coexist.

Risk often feels unsettling because outcomes are uncertain. For Esther, it wasn’t thrill-seeking; it was obedience. She did not rush blindly. She counted the cost, clarified her priority, prepared herself spiritually through fasting, and then acted with resolve. Her words, “If I perish, I perish,” were not reckless—they were anchored in conviction.

There are moments when doing what is right may threaten comfort, reputation, or security. Avoiding action may feel safer, but inaction can quietly erode purpose.

Like Esther, you are sometimes placed in situations where your response matters more than your safety net.

Courage does not remove fear; it orders it. Esther feared the king’s power, but she feared neglecting her calling more. She aligned her decision with God’s purpose rather than her personal preservation. Before she acted, she paused to seek God through fasting and unity with others. Preparation strengthened her resolve.

When the moment came, she stepped forward without wavering. Because she knew that she was coming from the presence of God. No overthinking, no nervousness—just a faith-filled step.

You may not face a royal court, but you may face a hard conversation, a defining decision, or a necessary stand. The same pattern applies: weigh the cost, prioritize rightly, prepare your heart, and move forward.

Key Takeaway

Courage is not the absence of fear—it is choosing obedience when the cost is real, and trusting God with the outcome.

Precious one,  remember this: God’s sovereignty does not eliminate risk, but it gives meaning to obedience in the face of adversity and risk. The outcome rests with Him; the step of obedience belongs to you.

Remain blessed.

 

FURTHER READING: Esther 4

 

Call to Salvation: Today is your day if you have not received salvation by turning over your life to Jesus Christ. Click here to do so.

 

QUESTION TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD.

1. What difficult step have you been avoiding because of the risk involved?

 

PRAYER

Lord, give me clarity to see what truly matters and courage to act when the cost feels high. Help me not to shrink back in fear or delay what You are calling me to do. Strengthen my heart through preparation and trust, and guide my steps with Your wisdom. I place the outcome in Your hands and choose to move forward in faith. In Jesus's precious name, Amen.

 

One-Year Bible Reading Plan

Psalm 94, Job 35