Why do we seek Favour?

Meditation from Esther Chapter 7

God makes a nobody into somebody and that somebody becomes instrumental in saving the lives of everybody - this is the story of Esther. The Lord takes us from humble backgrounds and transforms us, what for?

Esther's life teaches us that it is not for our personal benefits, but for the larger good.

1. Petition: The second time the King asks Esther her petition and request; that it will be granted to her, even half of his kingdom (7:2).

Esther does not request for personal matters nor uses the opportunity for greed.

What is our petition and request before God? It's not wrong to go before God for personal needs, but if we stop only with that, we have failed to be a true Christian.

First, God is not a genie who is at our disposal to fulfil our commands.
Secondly, it is not about what we want or desire, but about what God wills.

The Lord is looking for people who are selfless in their petitions, prayers; who pray for the people, the nation and the world.

"And I sought for anyone among them who would repair the wall and stand in the breach before me on behalf of the land, so that I would not destroy it; but I found no one."
Ezekiel 22:30 NRSV

Ask yourself, "Will I be that one who will stand in the gap (intercede) for others?"

2. Favour: Esther found favour in the eyes of the king. That's why her life was spared (5:2).

Esther did not use that favour for her own personal benefits, but for the people, to save them (7:3).

She asked for her life because it would mean more serious to the king. She used that favour to save the people.

Another woman found favour.

"The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God."
Luke 1:30 NRSV

Mary found God's favour, not for her benefit, but for the salvation of all mankind.

The mother of James & John came to Jesus and asked Him a favour, “Declare that these two sons of mine will sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.”
Matthew 20:21 NRSV

Jesus tells her that she doesn't know what she was asking.

Why do we seek favour? When we receive favour from someone what do we use it for - our profit or for people?

3. Influence: Esther through her character and hospitality had influence on the king. The king was so pleased with her that twice he accepted her invitation.

She could have influenced for her personal or for Mordecai's welfare. She used her influence in two ways,

a) To expose the wickedness & evil act (of Haman)
b) To save the people from destruction

Haman tried to use his influence on the Queen to save his own life, but ended up losing his life for his wickedness (7:8,10)

Everyone of us have our own circle of influence.

How do we use our influence? Do we expose wickedness (because it puts many in danger) or we just overlook it? Do we use the influence for our personal profit or for the people?

Paul writes, "All of them are seeking their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ."
Philippians 2:21 NRSV

Only when we seek the interest of Christ, His kingdom and that of people, our petitions, favour and influence will be pleasing unto God and our life will be meaningful.

Have a blessed day!