Be Graceful (Ahasuerus and Esther)
Now the king was attracted to Esther more than to any of the other women, and she won his favor and approval more than any of the other virgins. So he set a royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti.
READ Esther 2:1-18.
Esther was beautiful. However, her beauty was more than that drop-dead gorgeous image you see on the television or in a magazine. Everything about Esther was beautiful, inside and out; so much so that she won the favor of everyone who crossed her path. The way she carried herself, how she walked, the way she dressed, and the way she talked - everything exuded an attractive gracefulness.
When Ahasuerus first laid eyes on Esther, he knew she was the one to be the next queen. What was it that stood out? Did she smell good? Was her hair laid? Maybe her outfit was the perfect balance of fashion and simplicity. Or was it the colors in her dress that brought out the glimmer in her eyes?
What if it was more? Being externally beautiful is not hard to do. Thousands of tutorials on Youtube can help you do that. Nightly beauty routine? Check. Concealer and foundation? Check. Lashes? Check. Clips-in for extra fullness and length? Check. That’s not the hard part - but inner beauty? Now that’s another conversation.
Something about Esther made people respect her instantly. Maybe she had a way with words and manners. Perhaps it was the way she paused to let someone step in front of her. Possibly she responded gently when someone snapped at her. Whatever it was - in the end, Esther’s gracefulness saved a nation!
The Bible makes it clear that our words, as well as our actions, have power. How will you use them today? As you contemplate, consider the gracefulness of Esther. Choose to carry yourself in such a way that others turn their heads and pay attention. More importantly, begin your day with grace in your home. After all, you never know, you too may save a generation with your actions and words.
Thought Questions
- Ahaseurus was surrounded by the worst friends. Too many times they led him to make poor decisions. How are your friends? Are they helping or hurting you as you grow closer to God?
- Esther on the other hand made Ahaseurus look good. Are you doing the same for your spouse? If no, take a moment to think of ways that you can help your spouse make better decisions both now and for eternity.
Life Lessons
- Graciousness cannot be bought. It is a gift that only God can give. Pray daily to ask God to help your inner beauty to shine.
- Believe it or not, the company we keep drastically impacts our character. Friends, lifestyle and the way you use your time are excellent ways to evaluate your inner health.
Further Study
Read Colossians 4:6. The image provided in this verse makes your mouth water - “seasoned with salt”. Are you leaving a good taste in the hearts of the individuals you encounter on a daily basis? If not, how can you improve your interactions with others?
