5 Ways Modern-Day Esthers Choose Gratitude

"Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

As Modern-Day Esthers, we live in a world that is undeniably broken—politically, emotionally, and spiritually. Yet, even in this wreckage, God calls us to cultivate a life of gratitude and to make choices that honor Him. Gratitude and godly choices are not mere feelings or fleeting decisions; they are disciplines that reflect the depth of our character, the breadth of our influence, and the strength of our commitment to Christ.

1. Gratitude Shapes Our Vision of God

Gratitude begins when we see that God is good. In Psalm 34:8, we are called to, "Taste and see that the Lord is good." When we focus on God’s faithfulness, even amidst life’s messes, our hearts naturally overflow with thankfulness.

Yet, the enemy seeks to distort this truth. As Romans 1:21 warns, "Although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him." Ungratefulness leads to spiritual darkness, but gratitude opens our eyes to God’s abundant goodness.

• Begin a gratitude journal and list three ways you’ve seen God’s goodness daily.
• Meditate on Romans 8:28, remembering that God works all things for the good of those who love Him.

2. Choices Reflect Our Character

Our choices reveal who we truly are. Eve and Adam chose disobedience, introducing sin into the world (Genesis 3:1-7). In contrast, Abraham chose faithfulness, even when it meant offering Isaac as a sacrifice (Genesis 22:1-12).

Each decision we make, big or small, engraves the story of our character. As Romans 6:13 reminds us, "Do not offer any part of yourself to sin... but rather offer yourselves to God."

• Reflect on the choices you’ve made this week. Are they leading you closer to God?
• When faced with temptation or fear, ask yourself, "Does this choice honor the Lord?"

3. Gratitude Fuels Service

Gratitude isn’t passive; it moves us to action. Hebrews 13:15 tells us to, "Offer a sacrifice of praise to God." True thanksgiving leads to serving others with joy. The Greek word for thanksgiving, eucharisteo, emphasizes this connection between gratitude and action.

Israel provides us with a beautiful example. Recently, they connected Gaza’s desalination plant to their power grid, providing clean water even amid conflict. Gratitude in action reflects God’s heart, showing love even to those in need.

• Ask God to show you where you can serve. Maybe it’s volunteering at your church, donating to help Israel, or mentoring someone in need.
• Thank those around you who serve, no matter how small their role may seem.

4. Choices Determine Our Influence

Our influence is a powerful tool. Lot’s selfish choices led his family astray (Genesis 13:9-11), while Joshua declared, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15).

As Esthers, your influence ripples outward. This year, your efforts have amplified the message of End Jew Hatred, spreading awareness about antisemitism. Esthers around the world are wearing yellow ribbon pins to advocate for the hostages still held in Gaza. Your prayers, giving, and service make an eternal impact.

• Use your words and actions to bless others. Share God’s goodness with someone this week.
• Remember that your influence is never neutral. Choose to build up rather than tear down.

5. Gratitude Anchors Us in God’s Purpose

In a broken world, gratitude reminds us of our true purpose: to glorify God and love others. As Philippians 2:14-15 encourages, "Do everything without grumbling or arguing... then you will shine among them like stars in the sky."

When we choose gratitude, we align our hearts with God’s will. When we choose to act, we honor Him with our lives.

How Modern-Day Esthers Live in Gratitude and Choices:

• Pray Daily: Offer prayers of thanksgiving as part of your routine. "Let your requests be made known to God with thanksgiving" (Philippians 4:6).
• Speak Gratitude: Share stories of God’s goodness with your family, friends, and community.
• Serve Joyfully: Find your place in God’s kingdom work, whether it’s through giving, volunteering, or prayer.
• Resist Grumbling: When challenges arise, respond with trust in God’s plan rather than complaints.
• Lead Boldly: Use your influence to stand for Israel and against hate.

Today’s Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your goodness and faithfulness. Help us to cultivate hearts of gratitude and to make choices that honor You. May our lives reflect Your love, and may our influence lead others closer to You. Strengthen us to serve with joy, speak truth with courage, and act with faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.