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Approved and verified accurate by the Local Outreach Coordinator of the Department of Spiritual Life on July 14, 2025.
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"And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?"
— Esther 4:14, NIV
Esther’s life was turned upside down when she was taken from her home and chosen to be queen in a foreign place. She never asked for the role she was given. She likely felt powerless and afraid, but God had a plan for her — a plan to help protect His people.
When the time came to act, Esther risked it all to speak up. This could have led to her death, but she chose courage over fear, trusting in God’s plan and purpose for both her life and the lives of His people.
College life can be overwhelming at times — new environment, people, pressures and uncertainty about the future. There have likely been times you’ve felt out of place, unsure of God’s plan for you or why He has you in your current situation. But like Esther, you’ve been placed here for a reason, one you likely won’t understand for a while. Your particular courage might look like standing up for a friend, sharing your faith or making a hard but right choice.
Esther didn’t know how it would all turn out. She decided to trust God and stepped forward in faith and God took control from there.
Esther’s story begins in a time of exile when the Jewish people were living under the rule of the Persian Empire. She was a young woman who had lost both of her parents and was raised by her cousin, Mordecai. From the outside, Esther’s life seemed very ordinary: an orphan, a foreigner, a girl with no status or power in the kingdom. But through a series of unexpected events, Esther was chosen to become queen of Persia. The king, after dismissing his former queen, selected Esther for her beauty, unaware of her Jewish identity. Overnight, Esther was elevated from obscurity to royalty.
You might not feel equipped, but God can use you in many unexpected ways. From your house to the classroom, God can and will use you right where you are. The small acts you choose to do, showing integrity, kindness and courage, can make more of a difference than you realize. You aren’t in this current position by accident. Ask God how He can best use you in this time and keep listening for His answer.
Think of one situation this week where you can choose courage over comfort, big or small. Write it down and ask God to help you follow through.
At Grand Canyon University, we strive to help you grow in both faith and courage through Christ-centered community, purposeful learning and opportunities to live out your calling. Explore more at GCU’s Spiritual Life.
Courage in the Face of Fear
Step out in courage today and trust God’s purpose for you here at GCU.
