MESSAGE 5: Justice with Wisdom — Lessons from Esther
Series Title: Justice. Mercy. Humility. — The Way of Jesus
Theme Verse: Micah 6:8
Primary Text: Esther 4–7
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 21:1, Psalm 37:5–6, James 1:5
Big Idea:
Justice is not only about courage—it’s also about wisdom, timing, prayer, and preparation. Esther’s story teaches us that God often uses ordinary people to bring justice in extraordinary ways, through prayerful planning and Spirit-led boldness.
Three Key Lessons from Esther’s Story
- Wisdom seeks God before it speaks up.
Esther didn’t rush. She prayed and fasted. God gave her clarity. - Justice works through strategy, not just passion.
Esther used discernment to approach the king with timing, tact, and truth. - Courage steps forward when the moment comes.
Esther didn’t hide behind fear. She risked everything to do what was right.
Three Key Lessons from Esther’s Story
- Wisdom seeks God before it speaks up.
Esther didn’t rush. She prayed and fasted. God gave her clarity. - Justice works through strategy, not just passion.
Esther used discernment to approach the king with timing, tact, and truth. - Courage steps forward when the moment comes.
Esther didn’t hide behind fear. She risked everything to do what was right.
INTRO: Justice Requires More Than Passion
- Some justice requires fire. Other times, it requires focus and wisdom.
- Esther’s story reminds us: Prayer, planning, and proper timing matter.
POINT 1: Pray First — Wisdom Begins in God’s Presence (8–10 minutes)
One Core Truth: Prayer is the foundation of wisdom, not just preparation for it.
Landing Line: Esther prayed before she spoke. We need to kneel before we step up. > “Go, gather all the Jews… and fast for me…” (Esther 4:16)
Exposition:
- Esther doesn’t rush to speak to the king.
- She first calls for three days of prayer and fasting.
Key Insight:
Prayer is not delay—it’s strategy in the Spirit.
Application:
- When faced with injustice or leadership decisions—start with prayer, not pressure.
- Ask: Have I sought God’s wisdom before acting?
POINT 2: Plan Wisely — Justice Moves with Discernment (8–10 minutes)
One Core Truth: Discernment is not delay—it’s Spirit-led strategy.
Landing Line: Esther’s courage was strategic. Some doors only open through trust and timing. > “Then Esther approached the king…” (Esther 5:1)
Exposition:
- Esther waits for the right moment.
- She builds relationship, prepares banquets, and creates space for favor to grow.
Key Insight:
Boldness without wisdom is noise. Esther’s boldness was strategic and Spirit-timed.
Application:
- Some doors open only through time and trust.
- Ask: Am I acting wisely, or just loudly?
POINT 3: Approach Boldly — God Honors Faithful Risk (8–10 minutes)
One Core Truth: Boldness without wisdom is dangerous. But boldness with God’s favor is unstoppable.
Landing Line: What if your breakthrough is waiting on your boldness? > “If I perish, I perish.” (Esther 4:16)
Exposition:
- Esther chooses courage after prayer and planning.
- She risks her life to stand for her people.
Cross-Text Tie-In:
- Proverbs 21:1 — “The king’s heart is like channels of water in the hand of the Lord.”
- God was already working behind the scenes.
Key Insight:
God doesn’t waste bold obedience. He aligns it with His justice.
Application:
- Where are you hesitating to take a stand?
- Ask: What step of bold faith is God asking of me right now?
Closing Challenge & Ministry Moment
Invitation:
- Are you waiting on justice in your life, family, or community?
- Are you struggling to know when or how to act?
Altar Moment:
- Come ask for wisdom (James 1:5).
- Ask God to give you Esther-like courage, strategy, and clarity.
Challenge to the Church:
- Justice begins in the Spirit, is shaped in wisdom, and moves through bold obedience.
Return to the Theme: For Such a Time as This
- As we close, remember: this isn’t just Esther’s story—it’s ours.
- We are living in a moment that requires people of wisdom, strategy, and courage.
- Just like Esther, you’ve been placed where you are on purpose.
- You’ve been anointed by God for such a time as this.
Commissioning Invitation:
- If you’re sensing God is calling you to stand up, speak up, or step forward—respond today.
- If you’ve been hesitating in fear, this is your moment to trust God’s timing and walk in obedience.
- Come forward. Let us pray over you and declare that you are ready, equipped, and sent—for such a time as this.
Declaration:
“Like Esther, I will seek God first.
I will act with wisdom.
I will speak with boldness.
I am anointed for justice—right where I am, for such a time as this.”
