In what ways can we prepare for God's calling in our lives? Setting the Scene in Susa “ In the evening she would go in, and in the morning she would return to a second harem under the authority of Shaashgaz the king’s eunuch in charge of the concubines. She would not go back to the king unless he was pleased with her and summoned her by name.” — Esther 2:14 What We Observe • Esther endured a lengthy process before meeting the king (cf. 2:12, 12 months of preparation). • Her return to the harem highlights a season of waiting until a fresh summons came. • Everything happened under strict oversight; nothing was haphazard. Principles for Preparing for God’s Call 1. Intentional Preparation • Esther submitted to “twelve months of beauty treatments” (2:12). • Parallel: spiritual disciplines polish our character—2 Timothy 2:15 “Present yourself to God as one approved.” 2. Willing Submission to Process • She accepted guidance from Hegai and Shaashgaz (2:15). • Hebrews 13:17 reminds us to honor godly oversight in our lives. 3. Patience in Obscurity • After her night with the king, Esther returned to an unseen place, waiting for his voice. • Psalm 27:14 “Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong…” Waiting seasons refine motives. 4. Readiness to Be Summoned by Name • The king called only those he desired. • John 10:3 “He calls his own sheep by name.” Personal relationship fuels readiness. 5. Maintaining Purity and Distinction • Though in Persia’s palace, Esther guarded her Jewish identity (2:10). • Romans 12:2 “Do not be conformed to this world.” Holiness keeps us usable. 6. Trusting Divine Timing • Esther did not manipulate circumstances; God orchestrated the exact night (4:14 hindsight). • Ecclesiastes 3:1 “For everything there is a season.” God’s call arrives right on time. New Testament Echoes • Mary’s hidden years before Gabriel’s visit (Luke 1:26–38) display the same patient purity. • Paul’s three silent years in Arabia (Galatians 1:17–18) underscore purposeful delay before public ministry. Living This Out Today • Set apart daily time for Scripture, prayer, and repentance—spiritual oil that readies the soul. • Seek mentors and accept counsel; iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). • Serve faithfully in small assignments; God promotes the diligent (Luke 16:10). • Guard moral integrity, refusing compromises that dull spiritual hearing. • Hold plans loosely, trusting God’s bigger picture even when you feel sidelined. By imitating Esther’s quiet, steadfast preparation, believers position themselves to hear the King’s summons and step boldly into His appointed purposes. |
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