Living Sacrificially in a Selfish World | Esther 4:1-17
Unwanted Situations Are a Test of the Heart
Pastor Jim began with a personal story. Having served in church leadership for over 45 years, in roles ranging from deacon to senior pastor, he recounts a particularly defining experience at a church he was called to shepherd. This church, well-versed in biblical knowledge and theology, was renowned for its academic approach to worship, hosting prestigious speakers—including the president of Dallas Theological Seminary. Yet, something vital was missing: a meaningful ministry to the surrounding community.
While the church excelled in teaching, it struggled to reach out, to get involved in the messiness of real life beyond its walls. Pastor Jim noticed that God often places us in “unwanted situations,” moments where we feel out of place or conflicted, precisely to test and transform our hearts. Drawing a parallel to Esther 4, Jim describes how Esther herself was thrust into a deeply uncomfortable situation, forced to choose between self-preservation and risking her life for her people:
“Don’t think you will escape the fate of all the Jews because you are in the king’s palace. If you keep silent at this time, liberation and deliverance will come…from another place. But you and your father’s house will be destroyed. Who knows, perhaps you have come to your royal position for such a time as this.” (Esther 4:13-14)
The lesson: God puts us where we are—not always where we want to be—to challenge us, change us, and see if our hearts are ready to make a sacrifice.
The Challenge to Get Involved
After the departure of a teaching pastor, Jim finds himself in a pivotal position. The church leadership, rather than reevaluating their direction, simply seeks to replace one teacher with another, keeping comfort and tradition intact. “Let’s get another teacher from the Bible Institute,” they suggest, glossing over the concerns of congregation members—young and old—who struggle to connect with the new teaching style.
Jim patiently listens but knows something is not right. The reluctance to adapt, to sacrifice comfort for real ministry, echoes a common problem in churches everywhere: “We want churches to be the way we want them,” Jim says, “but the day is coming when we won’t be able to sit in comfortable pews.”
The turning point comes when younger families, college students, and even seniors approach Jim, voicing their struggles and urging him to intervene. The board, however, remains unmoved—highlighting the reality that in every church, “there are either several people or a handful of people who are used to getting their way.”
Esther’s call mirrors this challenge. Despite her royal status, she cannot ignore the impending destruction of her people. God challenges her—not just to be aware—but to get involved, even when the risks are high and the outcome uncertain.
Courage When It Counts
Living sacrificially requires more than good intentions—it calls for actual courage, especially when standing alone. Jim shares how the pressure mounted: board members opposed him, some wanted him out, and he risked being fired. He admits his fear of persecution but ultimately chooses to “take the hit no matter what,” following the example of Esther, who declares, “If I perish, I perish.”
This isn’t just church business—it’s spiritual warfare. The cost of real sacrifice is often high. Jim describes how one young father told him, “PT, you’re it. For such a time as this, you’re it.” Realizing this was why God had placed him there, Jim bravely withdraws his support for the board’s direction, setting in motion the changes the church desperately needed.
The story ends redemptively. Through connections in the community, the church eventually finds a new, young pastor who invigorates the congregation so much that they need another pastor to handle growth. “I want to thank you for having the guts,” an elder tells Jim later. The impact of his sacrifice echoes on, but Jim humbly reflects, “If I would have spoken up sooner, it would have made things so much easier.”
Defining Moments—Where Is Your Heart?
What do these experiences mean for us today?
Jim’s sermon challenges each listener to face a profound question: “When’s the last time you made an unselfish, sacrificial decision in order to help fellow believers who couldn’t help themselves?” The challenge is personal and immediate: now that it’s been raised, “God’s going to do something in your life. Guaranteed, that you’re going to be challenged with that.”
Sacrifice is painfully tough in this selfish world. Many people, even those exposed to faith, may never come to Christ precisely because “they want to live their lives the way they want. They’re selfish.” But for followers of Jesus, the call is clear. Quoting Dr. Paul Tripp, Jim sums it up: “A disciple is willing to make sacrifices and suffer for the sake of his Lord.”
Practical Application: How Can We Live Sacrificially?
Based on Esther 4 and Pastor Jim’s story, here are steps you can take to honor God in a selfish world:
Recognize Unwanted Situations as Opportunities
Instead of resisting uncomfortable circumstances, ask what God might be teaching you or how He might use you.Listen to Others and Get Involved
Sacrificial living means putting aside personal preferences and listening to the needs of those around you. Respond with involvement—even when it’s costly.Have Courage When It Counts
Standing up for what is right, even alone, is the essence of sacrifice. Trust that God honors courageous faith, as He did with Esther and Jim.Allow God to Define Your Heart
Moments of decision—large or small—can reveal selfishness or openness to sacrifice. Ask God to search your heart and give you the grace to act sacrificially.Commit to Helping Others Sacrificially
Whether it’s time, resources, or emotional energy, be willing to support those who cannot help themselves.
Conclusion
Living sacrificially is the way of Christ and the call upon every believer’s life. “Where’s your heart today?” Pastor Jim asks. Are you willing to make the sacrifice God asks of you?
As you reflect on Esther’s story and Jim’s honest testimony, remember: you may be in your current position “for such a time as this.” Don’t let comfort or fear keep you from the calling God has placed before you. Step forward in faith, sacrifice willingly, and discover the joy and growth that only God can bring.
If this post has challenged you, share it with someone who needs encouragement to live courageously and sacrificially. And remember, the world may be selfish, but God’s grace empowers us to make a difference—one sacrifice at a time.