21 Days of Prayer - PersevereSample

When You Feel Like You’re the Only One

If you’ve ever felt like you were the only one, Esther can relate.

Esther was a woman of Jewish descent in a palace filled with people who weren’t like her. As a matter of fact, other people in the palace were trying to destroy the people like her. It wasn’t just an “underlying issue;” it was visible, tangible hate.

When Esther was made aware of the plot to kill all the Jews, she made the bold decision to approach the king about it, even though he hadn’t summoned her. If he didn’t appreciate this act, the law required that she be put to death.

Esther was faced with a difficult choice, literally a matter of life or death; still, she had to be the one to do it because she was the only one in her position. Now, we do read in Esther 4:14 that if she chose not to approach the king, “liberation and rescue…would arise from another place.” This reminds us that even if we feel like we’re the only one in our position, the world and its fate don’t rest on us. God is still in control; He desires to use us, but if our disobedience or stubbornness stops us, He will accomplish His purpose through another channel.

Even so, Esther believed that God had put her in the palace for a time like this. She made the bold decision to approach the king, and the plot to destroy all the Jews came to ruin when they were made aware of the plan and allowed to defend themselves. The Jewish people were victorious against the attacks.

If you feel like you’re the only one, it’s not always a bad thing. Pushing forward may be lonely and challenging, but that’s why perseverance is so important. You may be the “only one” in your workplace that believes in Jesus. You may be the “only one” in your family who attends church. You may be the “only one” in your friend group who desires to live a godly lifestyle.

However, you’re never the “only one” on earth experiencing hard things. You’re never the “only one” who believes in God. Just because you can’t see other believers doesn’t mean they don’t exist. They may not be in your proximity, but trust me, they’re there! There is a church family for you, and most importantly, there is a God who is for you and always with you.

If you’re the “only one,” don’t give up. Keep persevering, knowing that you’re never alone!

Emily N. Green

Prayer Point: Where do you feel like you’re the only one? Ask God for perspective and pray that He will empower you to continue in your calling, even when you feel alone.