Esther, a remarkable woman from the pages of the Bible, offers us valuable insights into achieving success, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Her story, found in the Book of Esther in the Old Testament, is a testament to strength, wisdom, prayer, strategic planning, and unwavering persistence. In this article, we’ll delve into these success secrets, supported by the corresponding verses in the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible.
1. Strength during times of adversity. (Esther 4:16)
One of Esther’s defining moments occurs when she faces the daunting task of approaching King Xerxes to intercede on behalf of her people, the Jews, who are facing imminent destruction. In Esther 4:16 (NIV), she says, “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”
Esther’s unwavering resolve to confront adversity head-on serves as a powerful lesson in facing challenges with strength and determination.
2. Seek wise counsel. (Esther 4:8)
In Esther 4:8 (NIV), Mordecai, Esther’s cousin and mentor, advises her regarding the dire situation facing their people: “He also gave him a copy of the text of the edict for their annihilation, which had been published in Susa, to show to Esther and explain it to her, and he told him to instruct her to go into the king’s presence to beg for mercy and plead with him for her people.”
Esther’s willingness to listen to the counsel of Mordecai underscores the importance of seeking wise advice and guidance when making crucial decisions.
3. Fast and pray for divine intervention. (Esther 4:16)
Esther recognized the significance of seeking divine intervention through prayer and fasting. In Esther 4:16 (NIV), she calls for a three-day fast among her people before approaching the king, acknowledging the spiritual dimension of their plight.
Fasting and prayer can provide clarity, strength, and a deeper connection with God when facing challenges in our own lives.
4. Strategic planning. (Esther 5:4-5)
Esther’s approach to her mission involved strategic planning. In Esther 5:4-5 (NIV), we see how she strategically invites the king and Haman to a banquet. “If it pleases the king,” she says, “let the king, together with Haman, come today to a banquet I have prepared for him.” This careful planning allowed her to address the issue at the right moment.
Esther’s strategic thinking teaches us that success often involves meticulous planning and timing.
5. Persistence. (Esther 5:4)
Esther’s unwavering persistence is evident when she extends her invitation to the king and Haman not just once, but twice. In Esther 5:4 (NIV), she says, “Let the king and Haman come tomorrow to the banquet I will prepare for them.” Her determination pays off as she eventually reveals the wicked plot against her people.
Esther’s persistence serves as a reminder that success often requires us to persevere, even when faced with setbacks or initial rejection.
Incorporating these success secrets from Esther’s life into our own journeys can help us overcome adversity, make wise decisions, seek divine guidance, plan strategically, and persist in our pursuits. Esther’s story is a timeless testament to the power of faith, courage, and determination in achieving success even in the most challenging circumstances.