Duniya: Being a Catalyst for Change
Esther 4:14
In the last devotional, we learned the importance of discerning the times, of recognizing the spiritual climate of our generation and responding to it with urgency and sensitivity. But discernment alone is not enough. Once we see the need, we must respond!
In this devotional, we’ll delve into how God uses ordinary people to spark extraordinary change. We’ll look at how one person’s obedience can shift the destiny of nations, the role of discipleship in creating lasting impact, and how you can overcome the fear that often holds believers back from sharing their faith.
In every generation, God raises individuals who dare to say yes to Him, people who become catalysts for transformation in their families, communities, and even nations.
They don’t have to be the loudest or most influential. Many times, they are the ones who simply yield and obey. Whether in a classroom, corporate setting, or creative industry, these individuals carry a burden that goes beyond themselves. They are moved not just by what they see, but by what God sees.
Esther was one of those individuals. When her people were threatened with extinction, she didn’t remain silent. Though fear gripped her, she chose to act. She understood the urgency of the hour and embraced the reality that she had been placed in her position “for such a time as this.” As it is written:
Esther 4:14
New King James Version
14 For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?
Her obedience didn’t just spare her life, it preserved an entire nation! Through one act of courage, generations were saved.
This is the power of one life fully surrendered to God. Like Esther, you may not feel prepared. You may question your qualifications. But God is not looking for perfection, He is looking for obedience.
True change happens when we commit not just to preach the gospel, but to disciple those we reach. Many believers stop at evangelism, but the real fruit is seen in follow-up and intentional discipleship. Paul highlights this in his letter to Timothy:
2 Timothy 2:2
New King James Version
2 And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.
This is how the gospel grows and spreads! What God gives you is not just for you, it is meant to be poured into others who will pour into even more. Discipleship is God’s long-term strategy for transformation. When we disciple others, we build strong foundations that can endure trials, multiply influence, and bring sustained revival.
We see this principle in action in the Thessalonian church. Their faith wasn’t confined to their city. It spread across regions. Paul testified of their influence in his letter:
1 Thessalonians 1:7-8
New King James Version
7 So that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe.
8 For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out, so that we do not need to say anything.
What started as a local transformation became a regional impact. Their lives spoke so loudly that others were stirred to faith. You too can have that kind of impact. God desires to use your obedience to awaken faith in others, far beyond your current reach.
To be a catalyst, you must also be strategic. You don’t have to wait for a stage or a special calling. Your daily routine is your mission field. Begin by identifying the people around you who need Jesus: friends, colleagues, classmates, neighbours. Build relationships with them. Show them God’s love through your actions.
Speak with boldness, sharing the message of the gospel when the opportunity comes. And when they respond, walk with them—teach them, pray with them, and help them grow. The gospel was never meant to be a momentary message. It’s a lifelong journey.
Barriers will come. Fear, self-doubt, and feelings of inadequacy often keep us from stepping out. But throughout scripture, we see that God doesn’t call the qualified—He qualifies the called. Even the great Apostle Paul admitted to his own weaknesses when preaching to the church in Corinth:
1 Corinthians 2:3
New King James Version
3 I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling.
Yet, through his obedience, countless lives were changed. If Paul could be used in fear and trembling, then you can be used too. Don’t let fear silence your testimony. Let love for the lost compel you forward.
Finally, understand that what you do today matters tomorrow. You are planting seeds that can grow into movements. Your obedience could affect families, churches, cities, and generations. That is legacy. That is what it means to be a catalyst for change.
God has placed you where you are for a reason, and just like Esther, you have been positioned for such a time as this.
Prayer Point:
Lord, make me a vessel of lasting change. Give me boldness to obey, wisdom to disciple, and sensitivity to recognize every opportunity You give me. Let my life be a seed that multiplies, a voice that points to Christ, and a light that cannot be hidden.