STAND FIRM IN THE FAITH 1
Esther 3:1-8
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 1 Peter 5:8
The enemy hates it when we take a stand for God. The moment you decide to live differently, you become a target for his attacks. Just like Haman had it out for Mordecai and the Jews, the enemy is always out to attack believers. The good news is, God’s got a plan, way better than anything the enemy can cook up. Mordecai stood for God, but instead of getting a gold star, he got a death threat. Sometimes, standing firm in faith may not necessarily give you the desired outcome or immediate reward. But in the end, God’s ultimate plan prevails.
Have you ever felt like life is out to get you just because you’re trying to do the right thing? Have you ever faced opposition or threats for rejecting bribes, compromising your values, or standing up for the truth, etc.? Just like Daniel and the three Hebrew brothers who refused to bow to any other god, all Mordecai did was refuse to bow to Haman because of his strong faith in God, and suddenly, he wanted to take out an entire nation. The enemy doesn’t only attack you most of the time; he tries to shake your family, your faith community, and everything connected to you. No matter how intense the attacks get, God already has the victory in motion. This week, stand strong in an area where you’re being tempted to compromise.
Prayer
Dear Lord, help me to stand strong even in the face of opposition and attacks. Amen.
One Year Bible Reading
DAY 186 Job 31-32; Act 13:1-23
STAND FIRM 2
Esther 3:1-8
Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13
Everyone was bowing to Haman, but Mordecai stood firm even when faced with the pressure to conform to societal norms. He knew that bowing was an act of worship, and his faith in God wouldn’t allow it. He knew that honouring God was more important than pleasing people. That took a lot of courage. The world today pushes us to compromise all the time. Pressuring us to act, talk, or live in ways that don’t align with God’s standard. But like Esther, we have to stand firm. Even when it’s uncomfortable. Even when it means standing alone. Standing firm doesn’t mean being stubborn; it means being anchored in God’s truth. When you know who you are in Him, you won’t be shaken by the world’s expectations.
Maybe you’re pressured to compromise your beliefs, go along with what’s popular, stay silent when you should speak up, etc. Mordecai’s story reminds us that faith isn’t about convenience; it’s about commitment to God. When we stand firm, we may face opposition. But standing firm in faith means choosing God, even when it’s hard. It means trusting Him, even when others mock or ridicule you. It’s being brave and being strong in the face of opposition, knowing that God’s approval is what truly matters. Are you in a situation where standing up for your faith is hard? Stand firm in your faith! Don’t be afraid to say no when something goes against God’s truth. Even when it’s uncomfortable, choose to honour God over pleasing people.
Prayer
Lord, give me the courage to stand firm in my faith, just like Mordecai. Help me to trust You even when it’s tough and to never compromise my relationship with You. Amen.
One Year Bible Reading
DAY 187 Job 33-34; Act 13:24-52
FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS
Esther 4:5-14
For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this? Esther 4:14
Esther was just a young woman who found herself in a position of power and influence as queen, not by accident, but by divine appointment. When Mordecai told her, “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14b), He was reminding her that God had placed her there for a purpose. Despite her initial hesitation, she ultimately chose to risk her life to speak up and make a difference for her people, showing great courage and faith in God’s plan for her life.
Have you ever wondered why you’re in that position or situation? It may be that, like Esther, you are there for a specific purpose: to make a difference in the lives of others. Maybe you feel stuck, unqualified, or unsure of what God is doing in your life. Whatever season you’re in, whether it’s a time of waiting, a challenge, a period of uncertainty, or an opportunity, God has a reason for it. Even when things don’t make sense, He is positioning you for His plan. It’s so clear that “…God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them” (Romans 8:28 NLT). What season of life are you in right now? What might God be using this season to prepare you for? What is one thing you can do today to step into your God-given purpose?
Prayer
Lord, give me the wisdom and courage to see Your purpose in my current season. Amen.
One Year Bible Reading
DAY 188 Job 35-37; Act 14
FAITH WITH WORK
Esther 4:9-16
Go, gather all the Jews who are present in Shushan, and fast for me; neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will fast likewise. And so I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish! Esther 4:16
Faith isn’t just about believing; it’s about taking action and stepping out in obedience to what you believe. Sometimes we wait for everything to be crystal clear before we act, but that’s not how faith works. If Esther had waited for a guaranteed “yes” from the king before going to him, her people might not have survived. She had to step out even when she didn’t know how it would turn out. She knew approaching the king uninvited could mean death, but she also knew doing nothing wasn’t an option because “…faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead” (James 2:17 NLT). So what did she do? She took a deep breath, trusted God, and took a bold step of faith.
God calls us to do the same. He’s asking you to step out in faith in that situation where the outcome seems so uncertain. Today, talk to someone about Jesus, apply for that job, start that business, or just trust Him in that tough situation. You may not have all the answers, but if you take that step of faith, God will guide you and make the necessary provisions for you along the way. Faith is trusting that if God brought you to it, He’ll bring you through it. What is one thing God might be calling you to step into right now? Stop overthinking and start moving!
Prayer
Dear Lord, give me the courage to walk in faith, knowing You are with me every step of the way. Amen.
One Year Bible Reading
DAY 189 Job 38-39; Act 15;1-21
POSITIONED TO BRING CHANGE
Esther 5:1-10
‘Now it happened on the third day that Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the king’s palace, across from the king’s house, while the king sat on his royal throne in the royal house, facing the entrance of the house.’’ Esther 5:1
Queen Esther bravely went to King Ahasuerus’ inner court on the third day, dressed in her royal garments. The king signalled his favour by holding out his golden sceptre, pleased to see her. Haman and the king were invited to a feast that Esther had arranged. At the meal, the king asked her what she wanted and said he would give it to her. Esther asked everyone to attend another luncheon the next day, when she would make her request known. Haman departed in a positive mood but was furious when he saw Mordecai, who did not stand or shudder in his presence. Keeping his temper in check, Haman bragged to his family about his wealth, his numerous children, and his special invitation to Esther’s feasts.
Today’s memory verse shows us a powerful moment when Esther steps into her role, “putting on her royal robes,” to approach the king. Though fearful, she was positioned for such a time as this. Her bold action brought about the change that saved her people. Like Esther, we are often placed in unique positions—whether in the workplace, community, or family—not by accident but for a purpose. You may not always feel ready, but your courage and willingness to step forward can bring about the change needed. When you embrace your position and act with purpose, you become a catalyst for transformation. Trust that God has positioned you, and with faith and boldness, you can change the course of events.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, help me to always bring positive change wherever I find myself. Amen
One Year Bible Reading
DAY 190 Job 40-42; Act 15;22-41
THE KING’S HONOUR
Esther 6:1-11
‘So Haman took the robe and the horse, arrayed Mordecai and led him on horseback through the city square, and proclaimed before him, “Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king delights to honor!’’ Esther 6:11
The king, unable to sleep, orders the chronicles to be read to him. He discovers Mordecai’s unrewarded loyalty in uncovering a plot against his life. Surprised by this revelation, the king proposed to honour Mordecai. Not knowing the king’s decision, Haman came to request Mordecai’s execution, but he was rather tasked with honouring him. Haman must parade Mordecai on the king’s horse, dressed in royal robes, proclaiming his accolades throughout the city. This twist shows how a king’s honour can unexpectedly elevate one man while bringing embarrassment to another.
Today, the Lord God is our King who grants us favour according to the riches of His grace. When He honours a person, it’s a moment of divine elevation that transcends human expectations. Mordecai, once overlooked, is suddenly lifted by the king’s decree, and Haman, in his pride, must proclaim his enemy’s honour. This powerful reversal shows that no act of righteousness goes unnoticed by God. It’s a reminder to remain faithful and patient, even when recognition seems delayed. Trust that God’s timing is perfect—He sees your efforts, and when the moment is right, He will elevate you in ways you never imagined. Like Mordecai, your honour will come, not by your own striving, but by the King’s favour. Stay humble, stay faithful, and trust in His perfect plan.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You because I believe that my time of honour is coming. Amen.
One Year Bible Reading
DAY 191 Psalm 1-3; Act 16;1-15
GOD CARES
Esther 7:1-5
And on the second day, at the banquet of wine, the king again said to Esther, “What is your petition, Queen Esther? It shall be granted you. And what is your request, up to half the kingdom? It shall be done! Esther 7:2
At Queen Esther’s second banquet, King Ahasuerus again inquired about her request, promising to grant it. Esther courageously pleaded for her life and that of her people, revealing that they had been sold for destruction. The king, shocked, asked who would dare commit such an act. Esther identified Haman as the adversary behind the plot. Overcome with rage, the king stepped into the palace garden. Haman, realising his fate, begged Esther for his life. Upon returning, the king found Haman falling on the couch where Esther was reclining, which further incensed him. Consequently, Haman was executed on the gallows.
The question “What is your request?” reminds us that God cares deeply about our needs and aspirations. Just as Queen Esther found the courage to speak out for her people, we can trust that when we bring our requests to God, He listens. Every prayer, every desire matters to Him. Life’s challenges may seem overwhelming, but we are never alone; God is faithfully present, ready to guide and support us. Embrace the belief that He is attentive to our hearts, providing strength in vulnerability. When you voice your hopes and struggles, remember that God is behind you, ready to intervene in powerful ways. Your requests matter—share them, for God cares deeply and desires to uplift you.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you for always caring for me, Amen.
One Year Bible Reading
DAY 192 Psalm 4-6; Act 16;16-40
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