Read: Esther Chapters 1-2
King Ahasuerus planned a feast for all the officials and dignitaries from the kingdoms over which he ruled. His desire was to show them all the riches of his glorious kingdom. He also wanted to unveil his queen’s beauty before all his guests. Queen Vashti refused to come at the king’s request. She believed what she was currently doing was more important than bringing pleasure to her husband and king.
The king was so angered by Queen Vashti’s refusal that he sought another bride to replace her as queen. Esther, an orphan raised by her uncle, found favor in the sight of the king’s eunuch, who took special care for the preparation to present her to the king. He gave her all the ointments, spices, food, and seven young women to assist her in the year-long beautification process before her presentation to the king.
In similar manner, King Jesus wants to reveal all the riches of His glorious kingdom to the nations of the earth. He is calling His bride to His side to unveil the beauty of His glory to all those around us. The question is,“How will we respond to the call? Will we refuse as Vashti did because we are preoccupied with other things? Or will we say yes, as Esther did, and allow the preparation to start?” The only qualification is a willing heart and submission to the purifying work of the Holy Spirit.
Is it a coincidence that there were seven women to assist in the beautification of Esther? I believe they are symbolic of the seven Spirits of God listed in Isaiah 11:2. They are the bridesmaids and companions who are intent on transforming us into the beautiful bride of Messiah. The maid of honor is the Spirit of the Lord, followed by the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.
Will we awaken out of our slumber? Will we lay ourselves on His heavenly altar as a living sacrifice so the Holy Spirit can burn away all that is self serving? He will replace those ashes with His beauty and glory (Isaiah 61:3). We will become a bride without spot or wrinkle to draw people to the riches of salvation (Ephesians 5:27). This is our reasonable worship (Romans 12:1).
The key is to develop a daily heart of worship, spending time just loving Him and listening to Him. Find a place away from all the distractions of life to focus on Him and His word, having no agenda but to come into His chamber room of intimacy. As we behold His glory, we are wondrously changed, not because we are forced to, but because we want to please Him.
In His presence, we can enjoy the pleasure of the King as He holds out His scepter of authority welcoming us into the secrets of His heart. It’s a place where we can receive the power to influence the salvation of a generation!
Questions to ponder.
- To the best of my ability, am I willing to say yes to Jesus’ invitation of deeper intimacy with Him?
- If not, what are the hindrances to my yes? Lack of trust? Busyness and distractions? Lack of understanding of what to do?
- How can I partner with God to reveal the glories of HIs Kingdom?
~ Larry Mueller
~ painting by Deana Harvey
