Winning Favor

When the king had issued his new proclamation and many young women were being brought to Susa, Esther was among them. She too was put in the royal palace in the care of Hegai, who had charge of the harem.  Hegai liked Esther, and she won his favor. He lost no time in beginning her beauty treatment of massage and special diet. He gave her the best place in the harem and assigned seven young women specially chosen from the royal palace to serve her. (Esther 2:8-9)

Hegai had hundreds of women all vying for the King’s affection. It was like a modern day “Bachelor” contest. Can you just imagine the day to day struggle of managing that many women who are all trying to out do one another! But something about Esther set her apart and won her favor with Hegai.

Winning favor with people means that your disposition and demeanor is one of getting along with others. That means that you don’t merely look out for your own personal interest but also for the interest of others. While Jesus was on earth, He gave personal attention to people – their needs, desires and ambitions.

Another key in having favor with people is being cheerful. Esther had been taken from her home and family not likely to ever return. Instead of wallowing in her new reality she chose to make the most of it and have an attitude of joy that made her stand out in the midst of her circumstances.

It’s no wonder that Esther pleased Hagai and won his favor. Her teachable spirit and willingness to obey instructions showed wisdom and because of her choices, a connection was made and Godly favor was granted.

Be Intentional about getting along with others.

Praises and Prayers

Father, thank you for opportunities to put others before myself. I want to be a woman that is known by her Godly character. Help me to follow Your example and to make the most of each and every situation that may come my way. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Messages from His Word

Philippians 2:1-4 (MSG)

If you’ve gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care—then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.