Women Champions - 12

The story of Esther ends with this champion of Israel saving the people. Her willingness to enter the race, her obedience to her authorities, her ability to sacrifice and surrender, and her wisdom in dealing with the enemy brought her victory. She was able to triumph in the middle of crisis. The devil lost, and Esther and her people won!

Esther the champion did something we should all do. She planned her strategy and found a course to take so they might win the battle. She knew the cost involved could mean her life.

Good planners make successful leaders. Joseph, through a dream from the Lord, knew he had to plan for seven good years and seven bad years. Noah knew through the Lord speaking to him that he had to plan for a flood. He heard the voice of God who told him how to fashion (plan) the ark. Moses received plans for the tabernacle. David dreamed about building the temple where God could dwell, and his son Solomon continued that dream, planning and completing it.

Champions are rising all over the world today. Champions of righteousness are coming on the scene. Champions are expecting the Lord to work on their behalf. They are delighted to be serving God and His children. Recognizing they have a purpose on this earth, they desire to fulfill the assignments God has entrusted to them.

No matter who you are or where you come from, God desires to make a champion out of you. Take a step of faith and put your scepter out to the King. Ask Him for favor and release your gifts and calling to Him. The King will welcome your presence, hear your request, and grant you your petition.

Lord, make us all champions for You!

Women Champions - 11

Once they pass the contest, champions get a crown. Esther's dream was that she became a queen. In our case, we might become smarter, wiser, or more discerning. When the crowns come after the testing, we move into a new level of authority. Often our anointing increases and our faith reaches for higher goals for the Kingdom of God.

Sacrifice is part of the walk of a champion. People who desire to make a difference in this world quickly discover their life is not their own. Opportunities come to make choices that either benefit society or benefit ourselves. Over the years in ministry, many times my husband and I have had to give things up for others to be helped. More than once we made choices to help others that required the loss of our own desires.

Esther discovered that championship required her having to surrender position, power, prestige, and future plans for herself. She had to choose the safety of her people over her own life. In the process of making such a choice, we discover what life really means to us. The Bible says that the person who lives to save his life will lose it anyway. (Matthew 16: 25)

It is better to surrender to the Lordship of Christ and let Him guide us in these decisions. Esther's position of privilege did not exempt her from God's requirements of her.

Champions face devils, mountains, obstacles, choices, and even their own heart. Just how far will you go to affect your world? Just how far are you willing to surrender? Some people will not surrender their time, money, information they carry, their heart, or their life. A true champion will surrender whatever God requires.

How do you see areas you have surrendered as bringing "championship" into your own life? I'd love to hear from you!