What qualities in Esther 2:17 can we emulate in our daily lives? Reading the Verse Together “The king loved Esther more than all the women, and she found favor and kindness with him more than all the virgins, so he placed the royal crown upon her head and made her queen in place of Vashti.” (Esther 2:17) What Made Esther Stand Out? Esther’s rise was not random; her qualities drew the king’s love and favor. Scripture highlights three traits in this single verse that we can imitate every day: • Loving attractiveness — she was “loved … more than all the women.” • Winsome favor — she “found favor … more than all the virgins.” • Overflowing kindness — she received “kindness with him,” implying a character that invited kindness by first giving it (Proverbs 3:3–4). Quality 1: Cultivating a Loving Attractiveness • Inner beauty precedes outer beauty (1 Peter 3:3-4). • Genuine warmth, respect, and a servant heart draw people, whether spouse, friend, or stranger. • Practical step: speak words that build up (Ephesians 4:29). People loved Esther because she likely spoke life, not criticism. Quality 2: Living to Gain God-Given Favor • Favor is God’s gracious gift but is often stewarded through humility and obedience (James 4:6). • Esther had already shown submission when she took only what Hegai advised (Esther 2:15). • Practical step: submit plans to the Lord first (Proverbs 3:5-6). Favor with people often follows favor with God (Luke 2:52). Quality 3: Practicing Everyday Kindness • The Hebrew idea behind “kindness” (ḥesed) carries loyalty, mercy, and compassion. • Kindness is active: small deeds, gentle responses, generous listening (Colossians 3:12). • Practical step: schedule one tangible act of kindness daily—text encouragement, deliver a meal, forgive a slight. Connecting the Dots When loving attractiveness, favor, and kindness weave together, God can position us for influence far beyond our natural reach—just as He did for Esther. The crown came after the character. Putting It into Practice This Week 1. Speak one encouraging sentence to each household member before bed. 2. Pray for God’s favor over a specific task, then work at it with excellence. 3. Bless an undeserving coworker or neighbor with unexpected kindness. These simple, Spirit-led choices echo Esther’s qualities, allowing the same God who crowned her to display His glory through our everyday lives. |
    |