Crushed To Purpose

Bible Passage: Es 2:1–18

Supporting Scriptures: 2Co 4:7-17; Ro 8:28-39; Jas 1:2-8

OPENING

How many of you are familiar with Napa. Napa is known for producing the best wines in the nation. I remember one year for my birthday my husband and I along with another couple took trip to Napa to explore the history of how wine is produced. We went to a place called “The Castle” where we had a sommelier (a individual trained and knowledgeable in all aspects of how wine is made, the best ways to pair it with foods).

Imagine this: a cluster of grapes, full of life, hanging from the vine. It’s ripe, it’s whole, it’s beautiful. But then, it’s plucked from its comfort, placed in a crushing vat, and pressed under great pressure. What was once whole and unblemished is now seemingly broken. The crushing released something deeper, something more valuable that couldn’t be seen with the natural eyes.

In the same way, life sometimes in our lives we feel or have crushing moments, pressing us beyond our limits. Just like those grapes, our crushing is not for destruction but for transformation? God uses the pressure, the pain, the pressing to bring out of us what He already put in us that will bless and transform the lives of others and bring glory to Him.

TRANSITION

Ladies, today I want talk about a women who I believe demonstrated how we as believers should posture ourselves during the crushing moments as we thrive this year. is crushing necessary, yes, and here’s why: it reveals what we draw from during tough times, it reveals the areas where growth is needed in our lives, it develops a dependency on God, and prepares you for greater purposes.

Let’s talk with our sister Esther to see what we are able to extract from her life of crushing.

MESSAGE

Esther

Four Things Esther Did During the Crushing Process:

Embraced Her Identity and Purpose Scripture: Esther 4:14 - "And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" Application: During her crushing moment, Esther recognized that she had a divine purpose. She embraced her identity as a queen chosen by God to save her people. In our lives, we must understand and accept that even in difficult times, we have a purpose. Trusting in God's plan for us helps us navigate through challenges.

Sought Spiritual Guidance Through Fasting and Prayer Scripture: Esther 4:16 - "Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do." Application: Esther turned to fasting and prayer for strength and clarity. This teaches us the importance of seeking God’s guidance and support during our trials. When we are crushed, turning to spiritual practices can provide us with the strength and direction needed to endure and overcome.

Displayed Courage and Took Action Scripture: Esther 4:16 - "When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish." Application: Despite the risk to her life, Esther displayed remarkable courage by approaching the king without being summoned. In our crushing moments, we are often called to act courageously. Even when fear threatens to paralyze us, stepping forward in faith can lead to breakthrough and victory.

Used Her Influence Wisely Scripture: Esther 7:3 - "Then Queen Esther answered, 'If I have found favor with you, Your Majesty, and if it pleases you, grant me my life—this is my petition. And spare my people—this is my request.'" Application: Esther wisely used her influence and position to advocate for her people. This reminds us that even in tough times, we have the power to influence situations positively. We can use our voice, resources, and networks to bring about change and help others, even while we navigate our own challenges.

These four actions—embracing purpose, seeking God, acting courageously, and using influence—can help us endure and grow through our own crushing processes, turning trials into transformative experiences.