Thought

Oils and makeup enhanced Esther’s outward beauty. But her inner beauty captivated the palace workers and even the picky, spoiled King Xerxes. Her good character traits included a calm spirit (she replaced a stubborn woman), a pleasing personality (she won the favor of Hegai, the king’s servant), and a humble respectfulness (she relied on Hegai’s advice and was not greedy for more). In the short term, her hope was to find favor with those around her, but in the long term the hope of Israel would rely on finding favor with God.

Word

Esther 2:15 NIV

Esther won the favor of everyone who saw her.

Question

Who were some of the most festive people in ancient times?

Probably the party-loving Persians, that’s who. King Xerxes once celebrated with other rulers for six months. And one of his banquets lasted a week! The first cake decorated with candles is attributed to the birthday celebration of a Persian ruler thousands of years ago. That tradition became so popular it spread to birthday parties for ordinary people. Hip, hip, hooray!

Challenge

Want to practice having a pleasing personality? Try this: First thing tomorrow morning ask a parent what chores you can do to help, then do them without complaining, negotiating, or stalling.

Prayer

Jesus, help me to be more like You so I can find favor with those around me and so they can see my hope is in You. Amen.