Women of the Bible…then & now

Reflecting on the story of Esther reminds me of how powerful faith and courage are in facing our own life challenges today. Esther was an ordinary woman placed in extraordinary circumstances—raised by her cousin Mordecai, hiding her identity, and ultimately risking her life to save her people. Her willingness to fast, pray, and bravely approach the king despite the danger teaches us that obedience and faith often require stepping outside our comfort zones. In my own experiences, I've found that embracing courage like Esther means acknowledging my fears but choosing to act on trust and faith anyway. Whether it's speaking up for what I believe in or supporting someone in need, Esther’s example encourages me to remember that God often works behind the scenes, turning risky situations into moments of deliverance and peace. The reflection questions from Esther’s story are especially meaningful: Where is God asking me to be courageous? What fears am I letting hold me back? Through prayer and introspection, I’ve learned that faith deepens when we move from hesitation to action, just as Esther did. She was not perfect, but her faithfulness made a difference “for such a time as this.” This narrative resonates with women today, reminding us that our purpose may not be glamorous or famous but significant in the grand story. Like Esther, each of us has a role and a calling, often in the positions we currently occupy. Trusting God’s plan, seeking strength through prayer, and embracing our unique gifts can empower us to overcome fear and contribute meaningfully to our communities. This story also invites us to a lifestyle of reflection and dedication. Esther’s three-day fast before approaching the king is a call to prepare our hearts and minds seriously before making bold decisions. It’s a spiritual discipline that many women find useful even now, creating space to listen for guidance and build inner peace. Overall, revisiting women of the Bible, especially Esther’s story, enriches our faith journey. It challenges us to integrate courage, prayer, and purpose into daily living, reminding us that God uses ordinary women to accomplish extraordinary things, even in modern times.