EASTER AT RISE CHURCH!

A Courageous Faith 5-Day Devotions

DAILY DEVOTIONS 
Ready to dig deeper into your faith? Our weekly 5-day devotionals are like a guided conversation with the sermon. We'll ask questions, share Bible verses, and help you uncover amazing things about God and yourself! There is a new set posted each Sunday after the service.


The Book of Esther is a thrilling tale of courage, intrigue, and the hidden hand of God at work. While His name is never mentioned directly in the book, His providence is evident throughout. Esther's journey reminds us that even in uncertain times, God is guiding our steps and empowering us with the strength to act boldly for His Kingdom.

Day 1: When Life Throws Curveballs
Scripture: Esther 3:1-7

Reflection: Life is unpredictable. Esther went from being an ordinary young woman to the Queen of Persia in an unexpected turn of events. Like her, we may encounter curveballs – illness, loss, disappointment – that make us question where God is in our story.

Reflective Questions: What unexpected events have challenged your faith? Can you identify any ways God might be working even in the difficult circumstances?

Prayer: Father, life is full of surprises. Help me to remember that You are sovereign, even when my life doesn't make sense. Grant me eyes to see Your hand at work and the strength to keep walking in faith. Amen.

Day 2: The Power of Prayer & Fasting
Scripture: Esther 4:15-17

Reflection: When faced with the threat of annihilation, Esther and Mordecai turned to prayer and fasting. This powerful spiritual discipline intensified their focus on God, sharpened their discernment, and strengthened them to act courageously.

Reflective Questions: Where in your life do you need a breakthrough? Could intentional prayer and fasting help you gain a fresh perspective or renewed determination?

Prayer: Lord, show me the power of surrendering my desires unto You. Help me prioritize seeking Your presence and direction through prayer and fasting. Grant me a stronger connection to You, particularly when challenges arise. Amen.


Day 3: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Potential
Scripture: Esther 4:13-14

Reflection: Mordecai's words to Esther, "Perhaps you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this," are a powerful reminder of God's purpose for our lives. Esther was simply an orphan, yet God placed her in a position of influence to save her people. We too have a unique role to play in God's unfolding story.

Reflective Questions: Do you ever feel like your life lacks significance? How can you open your heart to the possibility that God has equipped you to make a difference, right where you are?

Prayer: God, forgive me for underestimating my potential in Your hands. Break the lies of inadequacy that hold me back. Help me to recognize the gifts, skills, and experiences You've given me, and embolden me to use them bravely for Your Kingdom. Amen.


Day 4: Fear Doesn't Have the Final Word
Scripture: Esther 5:1-8

Reflection: Even with her unwavering faith, Esther felt fear. Her words, "if I perish, I perish," reveal the risk she embraced. Yet, she didn't allow fear to paralyze her. Trust in God fueled her courageous actions, and ultimately, led to victory.

Reflective Questions: What fears hinder you from stepping out in faith? How could a deeper trust in God's goodness and power override those fears?

Prayer: Father, fear has a way of creeping into my heart and limiting my steps. Remind me of Your steadfast love, and empower me to exchange fear for bold faith in Your promises. Amen.


Day 5: God's Providence at Work
Scripture: Esther 6:1-14

Reflection: The dramatic reversal of Haman's plot illustrates God's unseen hand directing events. Esther's courage, Mordecai's faithfulness, the king's sleepless night, and even Haman's arrogance all played a part in God's plan. In our lives, seemingly random events can be woven into a greater purpose by God.

Reflective Questions: Can you identify moments in your life where hindsight revealed God's guiding hand? How does this knowledge strengthen your faith for future challenges?

Prayer: Lord, open my eyes to see Your subtle workings in my life and in the world around me. Strengthen my faith to believe that You are orchestrating everything for my good and Your ultimate purpose, even when I can't fully understand the path. Amen.


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