What can we learn from Esther's humility in her request to the king? Verse in Focus “Then Queen Esther answered, ‘If I have found favor with you, O king, and if it pleases the king, may my life be given me as my petition and my people as my request.’” (Esther 7:3) Observations About Esther’s Humility - Acknowledges authority: “If I have found favor with you, O king…” - Requests, never demands: frames her plea around the king’s pleasure, not her position. - Identifies with the powerless: places her own life and her people on the same level. - Accepts dependency: recognizes her need for the king’s grace despite being queen. - Waits on God’s timing: speaks only after two banquets, showing restraint and patience. What Humility Looked Like in Action 1. Respectful speech—no entitlement in tone or wording. 2. Elevated others above self—her foremost concern is the survival of her people. 3. Courage rooted in faith—trusts God’s providence more than royal privilege. 4. Strategic wisdom—humility did not make her passive; it guided her into thoughtful, Spirit-led action. Lessons for Today - True influence flows from humility, not position (cf. Proverbs 15:33). - God honors those who humble themselves under authority (1 Peter 5:5-6). - Advocacy is most powerful when it serves others before self (Philippians 2:3-4). - Timing matters; humble patience allows God to prepare hearts (Ecclesiastes 3:7). Related Biblical Echoes - Daniel before Nebuchadnezzar: “There is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries” (Daniel 2:27-28). - Nehemiah before Artaxerxes: “If it pleases the king…” (Nehemiah 2:4-5). - Jesus, the greater intercessor: “Not My will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Putting It Into Practice - Approach God and people with “If it pleases…” rather than “I deserve…”. - Intercede for others daily, tying your welfare to theirs. - Choose words that respect authority while trusting God for outcomes. - Wait on divine timing; humility is content to let God open the door. Closing Thought When Esther bowed low before an earthly throne, Heaven moved to overturn a death sentence. Humility remains God’s chosen path for bringing life to others and honor to His name. |
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