What does the Bible teach us about the power of choice?
In Acts 20:23, the apostle Paul gives us a window into courage, destiny, and unwavering obedience. He knew suffering awaited him, yet he refused to let fear dictate his path. Instead, he chose faith over comfort, mission over safety, and God’s calling over his own convenience.
“Except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me.” – Acts 20:23 (NKJV)
Paul’s awareness of danger did not paralyze him—it sharpened his resolve. He understood that destiny is not about avoiding difficulty but walking faithfully through it.
“But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” – Acts 20:24
Paul chose obedience over safety, mission over comfort, and God’s calling over his own preferences. His focus was unshakable: to do what God called him to do, despite the challenges.
From the start, Paul’s life was defined by purpose.
“But the Lord said to him, ‘Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.’” – Acts 9:15
God’s calling does not remove challenge—it often multiplies it. Yet Paul’s story teaches that when we embrace God’s call, courage rises, distractions fall away, and destiny unfolds.
Order Amanda Grace’s New Book, “Brace For Impact” on Amazon.com!
Jesus modeled this ultimate choice of obedience for us.
“For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.” – John 6:38
Even in the shadow of unimaginable suffering, Jesus surrendered to the Father’s will.
“He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, ‘O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.’” – Matthew 26:39
Obedience unlocked redemption. Destiny was fulfilled because He chose God’s path over comfort, life over convenience.
Esther’s life gives another example of a courageous choice. She was placed in a position of influence—not for her glory, but to save her people. When faced with danger, Mordecai reminded her that inaction was still a choice.
“And Mordecai told them to answer Esther: ‘Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king’s palace any more than all the other Jews. 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?’” – Esther 4:13-14
Esther chose courage. She embraced risk.
“Go, gather all the Jews who are present in Shushan, and fast for me; neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will fast likewise. And so I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish!” – Esther 4:16
Her decision revealed her destiny and unlocked her true power.
The Bible shows us that destiny is not accidental. It is activated by courageous choices. Comfort is not confirmation. Silence is still a decision. The power to fulfill your destiny lies in your choice to follow what God has ordained for you. You are called to step forward, embrace God’s assignment, and rewrite your destiny.
Dr. Michelle Corral is Founder of the Day of Destiny podcast and CEO of Breath of the Spirit Ministries, Dr. Michelle Corral has spent over 45 years spreading the prophetic Word of God worldwide. Through Chesed for Humanity International, she provides global humanitarian aid—most notably to Syrian refugees—and shares destiny-focused principles through her books, broadcasts and outreach.
