A Royal Crown
Esther must have made quite an impression on the king because the word says that he was attracted to her more than any of the other women. She had won his favor and approval so he set a royal crown on her head and made her queen.
Many beautiful women were available to please the king, but he chose Esther. Her beauty must have come with something more.
In our culture many young girls want to be princesses just as many women want to be treated like a queen. But there is more to being a queen than just clothing, looks and demands. True royalty is demonstrated through a life devoted to God and caring for others. Those are the real beauty traits to strive for.
The bible tells us that there are five heavenly crowns that will be awarded to believers. They are the Victor’s crown, the Crown of Rejoicing, the Crown of Righteousness, the Crown of Glory, and the Crown of Life.
The Greek word translated “crown” is stephanos (the source for the name Stephen the martyr) and means “a badge of royalty. Each crown has a specific purpose.
The Victor’s Crown. This crown is awarded to those who have faithfully endured. They have lived their lives in such a way as to receive the prize that God has offered. Enduring whatever this life has thrown at them with a mindset that they want their life to bring honor and glory to God.
Think about how you spend your time, money, and talents. Do your habits reflect service to God, or do they indicate other priorities?
The Crown of Rejoicing. This crown is awarded to those who bring others to Christ. It’s often called the Soul- Winners Crown and it’s a reward given to those who reach out beyond themselves and lead others to Christ.
When was the last time you talked to someone about Christ who wasn’t Christian?
The Crown of Righteousness. Many Believers become so caught up with earthly activities that they forget heaven is their true home. This crown is not for those believers. It is for those who long for heaven, their true home, who long to see the face of their Savior when He comes for them in the clouds.
What aspects of heaven do you most look forward to?
The Crown of Glory. This crown is given to faithful shepherds of God’s people – pastors, elders, deacons, Sunday school teachers, ministry team leaders and more. It will reward those who answer the call of leadership. Jesus said to His disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.”
How will you respond to this need?
The Crown of Life. This crown is for all believers who maintain their love for Christ while triumphing over persecution, temptation, and even martyrdom. Many people will receive this crown because they gave their life for their faith, but there will be others wearing this crown too. Any believer who has kept the faith when it was costly to do so – anyone who has suffered, endured, persevered, and encouraged others – will receive the Crown of Life.
Have you suffered for the sake of the Gospel?
The Lord promised these crowns to those who faithfully serve Him on earth and the best part is that when we receive them, we get to lay them at the feet of our Lord Jesus Christ. We will be so overcome with gratitude because of what He has done for us that in an act of worship will willingly and joyfully give them all to Him. Regardless of what we endured on earth, a priceless crown will seem a small offering, but it will be the best gift we can give Him.
In this world full of tiaras and princesses all seeking their own glory, be intentional about seeking what is pleasing to God.
Be Intentional about living for the rewards that God has offered.
Praises & Prayers
Father, thank you for spelling out what it is that pleases You. Help us to live to serve others as we remember what awaits us in our Heavenly home, eternity with YOU. Let our lives bring glory and honor to our Lord, Savior and King. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Messages from His Word
Philippians 3: 13-14
Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.