15 : Esther - Myrtle - Never Waning

Esther 4:1

Esther was a Jewish orphan - raised by her cousin Mordecai.
The account contained in this book unfolds as God prepares the
way for Esther and for all who will keep His priorities.

In the presence of recognition, success, wealth, and luxury - an
environment many may covet, but proves to destructive to spiritual
commitment -Esther retained her sense of perspective and integrity.

Esther's Hebrew name was "Hadassah", which means "Myrtle",
the well-known beautiful evergreen shrub. Just like an evergreen,
which never wanes in color, her courage and obedience was the
same never waning, even when she was faced with death!

"Esther" in Persian means "star".
Her beauty, grace and character shone bright and unwavering against the
darkness threatening the Jewish people.

It is noted for our growth to see how quietly she served the living God.
1) Her response to Mordecai's call, to recognize God's providence in her
placement on the throne, was belief that God had put her there. (4:14)

2) Her respect for the power of prayer and fasting was evident as she saw
the reality of the spiritual realm and the Holy Spirit. (v.16).

3) Her unswerving will to lay down her own life for others and her
practical good sense and patience in pursuing the call God placed upon her life.

May it be that we can heed the call God has placed upon our lives and
walk as Esther did, with integrity, beauty and grace, that we too would
shine brightly in the darkness of the world.

God's blessing be upon our unity!
Psalm 133:1
Behold! How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity

14 : Abigail - A Woman of Understanding

1 Samuel 25:2-35

Abigail's life was difficult.
Her husband was" harsh and evil in his doings".
Yet Abigail was a "woman of good understanding" (vs. 3).
She was wise and respectful, and obviously kept her heart right before the Lord.

When her husband Nabal played the fool (vs.25), she did not
try to change his behavior, but she did intervene. She went directly to
David and he interceded for the lives of her people.

So struck by her courage and wisdom, David not only spared her people
but with great respect he also heeded her counsel, which had eternal consequences for his own life. (vs 32-35).

Abigail knew and trusted God and His ways.
As a result, God could use her to powerfully influence others - even a king.


This is one of several instances in Scripture where women who where called of God
are used by God in crucial situations.
Abigail shows herself worthy to be a queen.

Understanding, wisdom, respectful, courageous, heart right before the Lord, are these characteristic ones that describe the life we have before our lord?
May it be that we strive toward serving our Lord as Abigail - a powerful influence to those around us.

God's blessing be upon our unity!
Psalm 133:1 Behold! How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell in unity together.