Faithful Heroines: Trusting God's Purpose and Timing
Summary
Esther and Corrie ten Boom are two remarkable heroines of faith whose stories inspire us to trust in God's timing and purpose. Esther, a Jewish orphan living in the Persian Empire, became queen and was instrumental in saving her people from annihilation. Her story, celebrated during the Jewish festival of Purim, highlights her bravery and faithfulness to God. Despite the danger of approaching the king without invitation, Esther fasted, prayed, and courageously revealed Haman's plot to destroy the Jews, leading to their salvation. Her life exemplifies how God places us in specific situations for His divine purposes, even when we face persecution or fear.
Similarly, Corrie ten Boom, a Dutch Christian during World War II, risked her life to hide Jewish refugees from the Nazis. Despite the immense danger and the eventual arrest of her family, Corrie's faith remained steadfast. She survived the horrors of Ravensbrück concentration camp and later shared her story of faith, forgiveness, and God's love through her book, "The Hiding Place." Corrie's life teaches us that God's love is deeper than any pit of despair, and her willingness to forgive her captors demonstrates the transformative power of faith.
Both Esther and Corrie were ordinary women who did extraordinary things through their faith in God. Their stories remind us that our lives are not random but orchestrated by God for His purposes. We are called to step out in faith, trusting that God has placed us in the right place at the right time. By studying the Bible and building relationships with mature Christians, we can grow in wisdom and be ready to fulfill God's calling. Ultimately, we are enough through Christ, and our lives can have a profound impact on others, even if we don't see it immediately.
Key Takeaways:
1. Divine Placement and Purpose: Esther's story illustrates that God places us in specific situations for His divine purposes. Even when faced with fear and uncertainty, we can trust that God has orchestrated our lives for a reason. Our challenges are opportunities to fulfill His plans. [12:26]
2. Faith in the Face of Persecution: Corrie ten Boom's life teaches us the power of faith amidst persecution. Despite the immense danger, she remained faithful to God's calling, demonstrating that His love is deeper than any pit of despair. Her story encourages us to trust in God's sustaining love. [17:34]
3. The Power of Community: Both Esther and Corrie had support systems that helped them navigate their challenges. Building relationships with mature Christians can provide wisdom and encouragement, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey of faith. [23:21]
4. God's Orchestration of History: The stories of Esther and Corrie remind us that our lives are not random acts of chance. God orchestrates history and our personal stories to fulfill His purposes. Trusting in His plan allows us to see our lives as part of a greater narrative. [20:48]
5. Being Enough Through Christ: We may feel inadequate, but through Christ, we are more than enough. God uses us just as we are, placing us in the right place at the right time. Our lives can have a significant impact, even if we don't see it immediately. [30:59]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:30] - Introduction to Heroines of Faith
- [01:15] - Historical Context of Esther
- [03:00] - Esther's Story and Purim Celebration
- [05:45] - Esther's Courage and God's Timing
- [07:30] - Introduction to Corrie ten Boom
- [09:00] - Corrie's Story and Faith
- [11:00] - Corrie's Survival and Forgiveness
- [13:30] - Lessons from Esther and Corrie
- [15:00] - God's Orchestration and Our Role
- [17:00] - Building Faith and Community
- [19:00] - Trusting God's Plan
- [21:00] - Being Enough Through Christ
- [23:00] - Encouragement to Step Out in Faith
- [25:00] - Conclusion and Call to Action
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Esther 4:14 - "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?"
2. Romans 8:28 - "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
3. Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all this through him who gives me strength."
#### Observation Questions
1. What was the significant risk Esther took when she approached the king without an invitation, and how did she prepare for it? [10:05]
2. How did Mordecai support Esther in her mission to save the Jewish people? [10:05]
3. What actions did Corrie ten Boom and her family take to help Jewish refugees during World War II? [12:26]
4. How did Corrie ten Boom demonstrate forgiveness after her experiences in the concentration camp? [17:34]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does Esther's story illustrate the concept of divine placement and purpose in our lives? [10:05]
2. In what ways did Corrie ten Boom's faith sustain her during her time in the concentration camp, and how can this be applied to modern-day challenges? [17:34]
3. How does the sermon suggest that God orchestrates history and personal stories for His purposes? [20:48]
4. What role does community play in supporting individuals like Esther and Corrie in their faith journeys? [23:21]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt placed in a specific situation for a purpose. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? [10:05]
2. Corrie ten Boom's story emphasizes the power of forgiveness. Is there someone in your life you need to forgive, and what steps can you take to begin that process? [17:34]
3. How can you build a support system of mature Christians to help you navigate your faith journey? What steps will you take this week to strengthen these relationships? [23:21]
4. Consider a current challenge you are facing. How can you trust in God's orchestration of your life to see it as part of a greater narrative? [20:48]
5. Identify one area in your life where you feel inadequate. How can you rely on Christ to feel "enough" in that area? [30:59]
6. What practical steps can you take to study the Bible more effectively and grow in wisdom? Consider trying a new method or resource this week. [28:07]
7. Think of a situation where you might need to step out in faith. What is one action you can take this week to prepare for that moment? [25:22]
Devotional
Day 1: Trusting in Divine Placement
Esther's story is a powerful testament to the belief that God places us in specific situations for His divine purposes. As a Jewish orphan who became queen in the Persian Empire, Esther found herself in a position of influence at a critical moment in history. Her courage to approach the king without invitation, risking her life, was driven by her faith in God's plan. Esther's actions led to the salvation of her people, demonstrating that even in the face of fear and uncertainty, we can trust that God has orchestrated our lives for a reason. Our challenges are not mere obstacles but opportunities to fulfill His plans. [12:26]
"For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14, ESV)
Reflection: Consider a situation in your life where you feel uncertain or fearful. How might God be using this situation for His divine purpose, and what step of faith can you take today to align with His plan?
Day 2: Faith Amidst Persecution
Corrie ten Boom's life is a profound example of unwavering faith in the face of persecution. During World War II, she risked her life to hide Jewish refugees from the Nazis, demonstrating a deep commitment to God's calling despite immense danger. Her faith remained steadfast even through the horrors of Ravensbrück concentration camp. Corrie's story teaches us that God's love is deeper than any pit of despair, and her willingness to forgive her captors showcases the transformative power of faith. Her life encourages us to trust in God's sustaining love, even when we face persecution or trials. [17:34]
"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:10, ESV)
Reflection: Think of a time when you faced opposition or hardship for doing what you believed was right. How can you draw strength from God's love to remain faithful in similar situations today?
Day 3: The Strength of Community
Both Esther and Corrie ten Boom had support systems that played crucial roles in their journeys. Esther had Mordecai, who guided and encouraged her, while Corrie had her family and fellow believers who supported her mission. Building relationships with mature Christians can provide wisdom and encouragement, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey of faith. Community offers strength, guidance, and accountability, helping us navigate challenges and grow in our spiritual walk. [23:21]
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)
Reflection: Who are the people in your life that provide spiritual support and encouragement? How can you invest in these relationships to strengthen your faith community?
Day 4: Recognizing God's Orchestration
The stories of Esther and Corrie ten Boom remind us that our lives are not random acts of chance. God orchestrates history and our personal stories to fulfill His purposes. By trusting in His plan, we can see our lives as part of a greater narrative. Esther's rise to queenship and Corrie's survival and testimony are examples of how God weaves our experiences into His divine tapestry. Recognizing God's hand in our lives allows us to embrace our roles in His story with confidence and purpose. [20:48]
"The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps." (Proverbs 16:9, ESV)
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you saw God's hand at work in your life. How does recognizing His orchestration change your perspective on current challenges or decisions?
Day 5: Embracing Our Identity in Christ
We may often feel inadequate, but through Christ, we are more than enough. God uses us just as we are, placing us in the right place at the right time. Esther and Corrie were ordinary women who did extraordinary things through their faith in God. Their stories remind us that our lives can have a significant impact, even if we don't see it immediately. Embracing our identity in Christ empowers us to step out in faith, knowing that we are equipped for the tasks He has set before us. [30:59]
"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Corinthians 12:9, ESV)
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you feel inadequate? How can you rely on Christ's strength to step out in faith and make an impact today?
Quotes
"Esther was a Jewish orphan and she was raised by her cousin Mordecai. And when Queen Vashti fell out of favor with the king, he instructed his officers to gather beautiful young virgin women from across his kingdom to become part of his harem. And this is how Esther finds herself at the king's palace. So can you imagine that as a as an ordinary Hebrew girl suddenly finding yourself rounded up taken out of your home and finding yourself in the harem of the king following Mordecai's advice Esther does not reveal that she is Jewish." [00:00:52] (41 seconds)
"Esther was afraid no one could see him without being invited so she fasted and prayed for three days to build up her courage to see the king Esther asked the Jewish people to fast and to pray with her too it was very dangerous for Esther to approach the king without his permission but Mordecai told her she had been put close to the king by God especially to save the Jewish people Esther came up with a plan and invited the king and Haman to a banquet the next day." [00:06:40] (43 seconds)
"Esther's life was probably not what she dreamt of. She found herself in a strange place and in a dangerous situation. If she spoke to the king without being asked, she was in danger of losing her life. Yet, she was willing to be faithful to God and follow his leading. God had put Esther in exactly the right place at exactly the right time. And Mordecai tells Esther in chapter 4, verse 14, That's the most well-known verse in Esther, for a time such as this." [00:10:34] (59 seconds)
"Corrie ten Boom was a Dutch Christian woman who during World War II helped Jewish people escape Nazi persecution. She was born in 1892 and she grew up in a devout Christian family. In 1940, as the Nazis invaded the Netherlands, the Ten Boom family hid Jewish refugees in their home. Eventually, they were betrayed. And in 1944, Corrie and her family were arrested. Most of her family died. But Corrie and her sister were sent to the Ravenbrook concentration camp." [00:12:30] (41 seconds)
"But I'm sure they were absolutely terrified. But they were still willing to be faithful to God's calling, whatever the cost, despite the cost. And they truly believed that his love was so great that it could sustain them through all things. As Corrie's sister said, there is no pit so deep that God's love is not deeper still. And you can imagine the atrocities of the Ravensbrook concentration camp and how deep that pit was there." [00:17:52] (31 seconds)
"Sometimes it's hard to think of biblical characters and big, famous historical figures as being ordinary people. But they were, at their time, they were ordinary people who were able to do extraordinary things through God. They were willing to step up to the challenge when it presented itself. Or rather, when God presented the challenge to them. They were willing to step out in faith." [00:20:11] (31 seconds)
"And as Christians, we sort of believe this too, don't we? That there's no such things as a coincidence. Things don't just happen by random chance. They're not coincidences. They are God incidences. When we were in lockdown, I had this beautiful picture of an orchestra. And it was in MGM Technicolor and surround sound. It was absolutely amazing. And I had this picture of God as an orchestra. And every instrument that you could ever imagine was there was in the orchestra." [00:21:28] (33 seconds)
"He has it all in control. And we've sung today, even when we can't see it, he's working. Even when we can't feel it, he's working. And sometimes in the midst of our situation, it's difficult to see it and it's difficult to hear it. But trust him, he's working. He's working. Our life, our situation is not just a random act of chance. The God who created the universe and everything in it put you here for a reason." [00:22:43] (31 seconds)
"God has placed us where we are just as he placed Esther and Corrie. He has things for us to do. And he has placed us in just the right situation at just the right time to do them. Like Esther and Corrie, our lives may not be what we dreamed of. My life is certainly not how I would have planned it. And along with many, many good times have been disappointments and sacrifices and heartache along the way." [00:23:58] (33 seconds)
"We may not know the impact we have on other people as we move through our life following God's lead in. Julie Jones shared with us a few weeks ago about a young man that she'd shared the gospel with. And she was privileged to know a short while later that that young lad had accepted the gospel and come to faith. And that's not a privilege we may have. We may not know the ripples that our life have on other people until we get to heaven." [00:24:38] (30 seconds)
"Get a glimpse of how God has orchestrated history through the Old Testament. You may think that the stories of the Old Testament are not relevant to us now. It's all about tradition and it's all about law and what you have to do and what you can't do. But they are so relevant to us because they give us a glimpse of how God organized and orchestrated history to bring things about." [00:26:08] (22 seconds)
"Get to know how much Jesus loves you by reading the stories of the New Testament. This will build wisdom. It builds wisdom. And knowing how much he loves you will cause your love for him to grow too. We love because he first loved us. This will help you hear the leading of the Holy Spirit more easily. And it will help build the strength of faith that you will need if you are required to step out in faith. Know your Bible." [00:27:47] (34 seconds)
Chatbot
-
I'm an AI bot trained only on this specific sermon. Do you have any questions about it?