What Ruth, Esther, and Deborah Teach Us About Being Fearless Leaders

Dive into the inspiring stories of Ruth, Esther, and Deborah—three fearless women of the Bible whose faith and courage offer timeless lessons for us today. Whether you’re navigating uncertainty, stepping into a bold new calling, or juggling the challenges of leadership, their stories remind us that God equips us to lead with faith, wisdom, and strength. Join us for a heart-to-heart about trusting God, embracing your purpose, and living fearlessly as the woman He created you to be.

Coach Dee

11/22/20243 min read

Hey, girlfriends! Let’s grab our Bibles, our coffee (or tea), and have a heart-to-heart about three incredible women: Ruth, Esther, and Deborah. Their stories are packed with lessons that hit home for us as women navigating work, family, faith, and those moments when life throws us curveballs.

These ladies weren’t superheroes. They were just like us—facing uncertainty, fear, and moments of “Lord, are You sure about this?” But here’s the thing—they trusted God, stepped out in faith, and left a legacy of fearless leadership. Let’s unpack their stories together and see how their examples speak to us today.

Ruth: The Power of Staying Faithful

Let’s talk about Ruth. This girl left everything behind—her family, her culture, her comfort zone—to follow Naomi into the unknown. Ruth’s faithfulness wasn’t loud or flashy, but it was powerful. She said:

"Where you go, I will go; where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God my God." (Ruth 1:16)

Ruth’s faith and work ethic caught the attention of Boaz, and their union not only blessed her life but made her a part of Jesus’ family line. Think about that: God used her humble obedience to accomplish something huge.

What does this mean for us?

  • Sometimes life will ask us to step out of our comfort zones—whether it’s moving to a new place, starting a new job, or leaving toxic relationships. Ruth teaches us to trust God in the process.

  • Faithfulness in the little things matters. Whether you’re raising kids, showing up at work, or just trying to stay on track with life, God sees your faithfulness.

Meditate on: “The Lord blesses the work of your hands.” (Deuteronomy 28:12)

Esther: Brave Enough to Say “Yes”

Esther is one of my favorites. She didn’t ask to be queen, but when God placed her in that role, she embraced it. When her people faced annihilation, she risked her life to approach the king and advocate for them.

"If I perish, I perish," she declared. (Esther 4:16)

Wow. Talk about courage! Esther could’ve stayed silent, but she chose to act, knowing God had placed her in that position “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14).

How does this speak to us today?

  • Maybe you’re in a position where you feel inadequate—at work, in your family, or even in ministry. Esther reminds us that God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called.

  • Being brave doesn’t mean being fearless. It means trusting God when your knees are shaking.

Meditate on: “God is within her; she will not fall.” (Psalm 46:5)

Deborah: Leading with Wisdom and Strength

Now, Deborah—what a powerhouse. She was a judge, a prophet, and a warrior. When Barak hesitated to lead Israel into battle, Deborah stepped up and said, “I’ll go with you” (Judges 4:9).

Deborah’s leadership wasn’t about ego; it was about obedience to God and a willingness to use her gifts for His glory. Through her guidance, Israel won a great victory, and peace followed for 40 years.

What can we take from Deborah’s story?

  • Leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being willing to say, “God, use me however You want.”

  • As women, we often juggle so many roles—mom, wife, friend, boss—and it can feel overwhelming. Deborah reminds us to lean on God for wisdom and strength.

Meditate on: “The Lord goes before you and will be with you.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)

Girlfriends, This Is Our Time

Ruth, Esther, and Deborah weren’t perfect, but they were fearless in their faith. Their stories are reminders that God can use any of us—right where we are—to make an impact.

  • Are you in a season of waiting, like Ruth? Trust that God is working behind the scenes for your good.

  • Are you being called to take a bold step, like Esther? Don’t let fear stop you from saying “yes” to your purpose.

  • Do you feel the weight of leadership, like Deborah? Lean into God’s strength and know you don’t have to do it all alone.

Ladies, God has equipped each of us to be fearless leaders in our own right. Whether you’re leading a team at work, raising your kids, or simply showing up for yourself each day, He’s with you every step of the way.

Meditate on this: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

Let’s go out there and lead with faith, courage, and wisdom—just like Ruth, Esther, and Deborah.

Love you, ladies! Let’s keep encouraging each other to be bold, fearless, and uniquely who God made us to be.

– Coach Dee