The Courage and Beauty of Esther: A Beacon of Strength for Christian Women
When it comes to amazing Bible stories, few resonate as profoundly with women as the story of Queen Esther. This beautiful young woman was chosen by God for a purpose greater than herself. Esther exemplifies qualities that continue to inspire and guide us today. But what kind of woman was Esther in the Bible and how does she influence us today?
Her journey, from a young orphan to the queen who saved her people, is a testament to courage, beauty, and unwavering faith.
Let’s dive into the characteristics of Esther and explore how we, as Christian women, can follow her example.
What Kind of Woman Was Esther in the Bible?
Esther, originally named Hadassah, was a Jewish woman of extraordinary grace and inner strength. Raised by her cousin Mordecai after the death of her parents, Esther’s upbringing was rooted in the traditions and faith of her people.
Her story begins in the Persian Empire under the rule of King Xerxes, also known as King Ahasuerus. She was selected to be part of King Ahasuerus’ royal harem due to her exceptional beauty.
Yet, Esther was not merely a pretty face. Her true beauty lay in her character and her commitment to her faith and God. Despite the opulence of the palace and the privileges of being queen, Esther remained humble, wise, and obedient to God’s calling.
You may not be a queen, (a girl can dream, right?), but you can learn from Esther’s character and display her wisdom, strength, and faith in your life.
The Story of Esther
The book of Esther in the Bible chronicles her journey, emphasizing her critical role in the survival of the Jewish people. The name of God is never mentioned in the book of Esther. But you can see His fingerprints all over her story.
Only God could take an orphan, turn her into the Queen of Persia, and use her to save her people from utter destruction.
When King Ahasuerus had been on the throne for three years, he threw a party in the king’s palace and gardens. He invited all of the nobles in the kingdom to join in. After seven days of drinking, the king called for his wife, Queen Vashti to come and dance for him and his drunken friends.
When Queen Vashti refused the king’s command, he removed her from being queen and sought for a new queen. He sent his chamberlains out to find the most beautiful young virgins in the kingdom to bring to him. After only one look, he made Esther the queen.
A Hidden Identity
Esther’s wise cousin, Mordecai told her that she should keep her Jewish identity a secret from the other women in the king’s harem and those in the palace. Even though she didn’t understand Mordecai’s instructions, she obeyed.
When Haman, a high-ranking official, plotted to annihilate the Jews, Esther’s cousin Mordecai urged her to speak to the king on behalf of her people. This task was fraught with danger, as approaching the king’s inner court without being summoned could result in death.
Esther was afraid, but Mordecai sent her a powerful message found in Esther 4:14.
For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father’s house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?
Esther’s royal position would not save her. She would be killed along with her people.
Esther’s response to Mordecai’s challenge displays her courage and faith in God. She declared, “Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16, KJV).
This simple statement demonstrates Esther’s courage, faith, and determination to fulfill God’s purpose. After three days of prayer by Esther and the Jewish community, she approached the king. With God’s help, Esther received mercy, and the king invited her into the throne room.
Esther’s Request
Esther invited the king and Haman to a great banquet, but she still didn’t tell him her request. She requested them to return the next day and promised she would tell the king what she wanted.
Imagine Haman’s surprise when the queen begged the king to save her and her people from destruction! Then, she informed the Persian king that it was Haman who wanted to destroy them!
The king ordered that Haman be hung. Esther’s people were saved from death.
Related: The Story of Esther Coloring Pages (free printable)
Characteristics of Esther
You may never be put in a situation like Esther. But you can display her character in your own life. God has created you for a purpose. He has great things in store for you. And He made you to be used right now.
Just like Esther, you were created at the right time and the right place in history.
Let Queen Esther’s characteristics lead and inspire you to fulfill God’s plan for you.
Courage
Esther’s bravery is evident in her willingness to risk her life to save her people. Her famous words, “If I perish, I perish,” reflect a profound trust in God. Esther was prepared to sacrifice her life to save her people if that was God’s will. But Esther also understood that God’s way is often different from our way.
She was prepared to die if that was His plan. You and I know the end of the story. The king welcomed her in.
But Esther didn’t know that would happen. She knew that when she entered the king’s presence, he could order her to be killed.
Hopefully, you will never need the courage to face death. But you will need courage in your daily life as you follow the Holy Spirit and live for God.
Don’t let fear keep you from doing what God called you to do. Whether that’s serving God in ministry, taking care of your family, homeschooling your kids, or something else.
No matter what God called you to do, you can do it when you face it with the courage He gives.
Related: 10 Courageous Women in the Bible Who Inspire Us to Be Brave
Wisdom
Esther approached her mission with careful planning. In the king’s eye, she was the most beautiful woman in ancient Persia. She could’ve put confidence in herself and her own abilities.
But Esther knew that she could not face this great task on her own. She sought God’s guidance through fasting and prayer. She understood that God’s wisdom was essential in navigating the dangers of approaching the king.
Esther was just a young girl when she entered the palace gates with the other beautiful virgins. What she thought was just a beauty contest, was a part of God’s great plan.
But God’s wisdom is not restricted to queens or the smartest or most beautiful women. God’s wisdom is available to everyone who asks for it.
You, dear sister, can ask God for wisdom every day. No decision is too small to ask for His guidance. Whether you’re looking for a good deal on meat to fit your family’s budget, or seeking God’s will for a move for your family, He wants to hear from you. And He’ll give you the wisdom you need.
Humility
Despite her royal status, Esther did not rely on her own strength or beauty. Instead, she humbly depended on God and sought the support of her people through communal fasting.
When Esther became the queen, she did not let her new title go to her head. But when her cousin, a wise man, gave her advice, she listened.
Esther did not depend on herself for wisdom or courage. She asked that Mordecai and the Jewish people pray with her that God would grant her favor with the king.
Pride has no place in the heart of a godly woman. One of the greatest life lessons you can learn is to depend on God and others.
If you have a need, don’t try to meet it in your own strength. Ask God to help you, and lean into the help of others.
Faith
Esther’s faith in God was unwavering. Even though Esther lived in a foreign land, far away from Israel, she was raised with a strong faith.
She believed in God’s sovereignty and trusted that He had placed her in a position of influence for a reason. Mordecai’s words, “for such a time as this,” were a powerful message to her–but they ring true even today.
Esther believed that God would take care of her. Her actions were driven by a deep conviction that God’s purpose would prevail.
Esther’s role in God’s plan wasn’t one she would have chosen for herself. But God used her to save people’s lives.
You may be living a story that isn’t what you would’ve chosen. But you can have faith that the Lord is always working for you. Have faith that He will give you the courage, wisdom, and humility to live for Him.
Beauty
Esther’s physical beauty seems to be the focus of the story. But it is her inner beauty that truly shines.
Her character, marked by grace, kindness, and integrity, made her a vessel of God’s favor. God did not choose to use Esther because she was beautiful. But because she gave her life freely to Him, He used her.
There are so many beautiful women in the Bible, and beautiful women in the world today–including you, dear sister in Christ. But being beautiful in the eye of the king may not be the path God has for you. (I wish it was my path!)
But your inner beauty can shine out in every part of your life. You don’t need royal robes or a royal crown–or months of beauty treatments to become the woman God wants you to be. He created you in His image, forming you in your mother’s womb. You are beautiful to Him, and He has a plan for you.
Following Esther’s Example
As Christian women, Esther’s story offers us valuable lessons in how to live out our faith with courage and grace. Obviously, your story will be different than Esther’s! But every part of the Bible is the inspired Word of God. He gives it to us to teach us powerful lessons about living for Him.
Here are some ways we can follow Esther’s example and allow her life to inspire us:
1. Embrace Your Purpose
Esther was placed in her position for a specific reason. Similarly, you have a unique purpose ordained by God. Embrace it with confidence, knowing that you are where you are for such a time as this. Remember the words of Jeremiah 29:11.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
2. Cultivate Inner Beauty
True beauty in the eyes of God is found in a gentle and quiet spirit as shown in 1 Peter 3:3-4.
Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
Cultivate qualities such as kindness, humility, and faithfulness, allowing your character to reflect God’s love and grace. Outer beauty fades, but a soul that is beautiful in God’s eyes lasts forever.
3. Be Courageous
Life often presents us with situations that require bravery. Like Esther, face challenges head-on, trusting in God’s provision and protection. Remember, courage is not the absence of fear but the willingness to act in spite of it. Remember the promise found in 1 Timothy 1:7.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” As long as you are doing God’s will, you can be brave in Him.
4. Seek God’s Guidance
Before taking significant steps, seek God’s wisdom through prayer and fasting. Esther’s decision-making process was grounded in her relationship with God. Make Him your guide in every aspect of your life. There is no request too large or too small to ask God to help you. He cares about every decision big or small. James 1:5 says it best.
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
5. Stand Up for Others
Esther’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves. Use your voice to defend the vulnerable and stand against injustice, reflecting God’s heart for compassion and justice. Even in Proverbs 31, the writer encourages us to stand up for the weak.
Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.
Esther’s Legacy
Esther’s legacy is one of faith, courage, and unwavering commitment to God’s purpose. Her story encourages us to rise above our circumstances and trust in God’s plan for our lives.
As we navigate our own journeys, let us remember Esther’s example and strive to embody her qualities and character.
Esther’s bravery, beauty, and wisdom made her a beacon of hope for her people. She is still a beacon of hope today. She still encourages us to have faith, trust God, and understand that He created us for a purpose.
In times of uncertainty and challenge, may we, like Esther, find strength in our faith and courage to fulfill our God-given purpose. For we are all called for such a time as this, to reflect God’s glory and make a difference in the world around us.
Esther’s story continues to inspire and encourage Christian women across generations. Her life is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the extraordinary impact of a woman who dares to follow God’s call.
Her life reminds us of the power of prayer, and how that God guides our lives. What Esther might have seen as the end of life as she knew it, was God’s way to save His people. Instead of fighting or trying to escape, she fulfilled the call with confidence.
Let us honor her legacy by living with courage, humility, and unwavering faith in our own lives. Let us embrace the power of prayer, be courageous in the face of difficulty and seek God’s wisdom.
God was with Esther in her life, and He’s with you now. Even in these modern times, you can be the kind of woman Esther was in the Bible.
