Exceptional Bible CharactersSample

Remarkable in her beauty, Esther was thrown into prominence and the public eye without her consent, or any control over her situation. This lack of control over her own life could have defined her whole character and actions. She had beauty, and intelligence. But it is her bravery that I most admire her for. Esther chose to rise to the challenge of coming before the king on behalf of her people, the Jews, when they were threatened. I have always felt an overwhelming dread for Esther at the point in her story when Mordecai challenges her to step forward in defense of her people. She had been through so much already: pulled away from her family because of her beauty, added to the king's harem, even chosen as a bride for the king. Yet it was this choice, when she risked her life to stand up for her people, that I most admire. Instead of maintaining the status quo, remaining safe within the position her beauty had both forced her into and which sheltered her in relative safety, she used her beauty, her brains, and her bravery to do the right thing.

Question: Are you ever tempted to remain in relative safety when God may be calling you to step out for Him? Can you think of a situation in your life where this might be the case?