Walking Like Esther

Scripture: Now Esther was winning favor in the eyes of all who saw her. Esther 2:15

Observation: The Persian king has divorced his wife for not obeying his command to come to him. Now, he is looking for another woman to be his bride. He has brought to him a group of virgins, who are treated to a 12 month beauty regime. Out of this group, he will choose Esther. This selection quickly proves wise, as her cousin Mordaci is able to uncover and foil a plot against the king.
There is much that disagrees with me in this story—the casual dissolution of a marriage, the forced enslavement of young women. But in spite of the circumstances, one thing shines through: Esther. She is determined to willingly serve in tough circumstances. She is wise in her ability to listen and follow the advice of others. Slowly she is winning over all those around her, including the king himself. And as we will see, it is for such a time as this that Esther sits on the throne.

Application: Sometimes in the worst of circumstances, we have to continue to do what is right. We have to continue to serve, continue to get back up, continue to fight for the cause. Esther determined that she would not change who she was, but would continue to let the favor-winning grace of God shine through her life. Who knows, perhaps the situation that seems so bleak and helpless, is merely God setting the stage for a huge reveal of His deliverance? Ester could not have known her selection would assist in the saving of the king’s life.
It can be hard in trying times to give in, give up. But the smart money is on continuing to do what is right, and trust that God has a plan. Until that plan becomes clear, we walk in and by his favor-winning grace.

Prayer: Today, God, I trust that you are working behind the scenes. Just like you are present, but not named, in Esther’s life, I know that you are behind the scenes in my life. You are using all kinds of circumstances for your good and your glory. Help me keep my chin up and walk with grace in such a way that I am winning favor among all whom I serve.