Esther's Journey to the Crown: Beauty Treatments Are for the Kingdom of God
Have you ever wondered if beauty treatments align with a Christ-centered life? As women of God, we are encouraged to question whether certain activities bring glory to Him or if they disrespect His creation in us, denoting that we must not proceed that way. Queen Esther's story may provide some clarity for you.
Esther was a beautiful young woman who had been adopted by her cousin, Mordecai, after her parents passed away. As part of a royal search to replace Queen Vashti, King Xerxes selected Esther among many women to participate in a beauty contest. Before meeting the him, Xerxes had each woman undergo 12 months of beauty treatments: 6 months of oil of myrrh and 6 months of perfumes and cosmetics.
Preparation for Meeting the King
These beauty treatments were more than just about outward appearance; they were a preparation to present herself in a way that would honor her calling. Over the course of her treatments, something special about Esther’s presence caught the attention of Hegai, the king’s eunuch in charge of the women.The entire preparation period Esther underwent was a testament to God's timing. It wasn't rushed, and it wasn't a quick fix. Sometimes in our lives, we, too, might go through lengthy seasons of preparation that seem to take longer than we’d like. But as with Esther, the result is always worth the wait. When we are in alignment with God’s plan, He will open doors of favor at the right time.
The scripture notes that Esther found favor with Hegai, who went out of his way to ensure she had the best possible care:
Esther 2:9 (NIV):
"She pleased him and won his favor. Immediately he provided her with her beauty treatments and special food. He assigned to her seven female attendants selected from the king’s palace and moved her and her attendants into the best place in the harem."
This part of the story shows that while Esther was already physically beautiful, it was her humility, grace, and wisdom that set her apart. Her character gained her favor with Hegai, which ultimately contributed to her selection by the king. Her favor came not because she was forceful, but because she was patient, humble, and kind. The favor she received from everyone around her, especially the king, was a direct result of her character and how she carried herself, not just her appearance.
Preparation for Yahweh's purpose may involve taking care of ourselves, but ultimately, Yahweh's favor and our obedience to Him will open doors.
Esther’s Grace and Favor
As she continued through the beauty treatments, it was not just her beauty that drew the king’s attention, but the favor of the Lord on Esther’s life. King Xerxes was so taken by her that he chose her over all the other women. She found favor not only with the king, but with everyone who saw her, and this culminated in her being crowned queen.
Esther 2:17 (NIV):
"Now the king was attracted to Esther more than to any of the other women, and she won his favor and approval more than any of the other virgins. So he set a royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti."
The king’s favor was a direct reflection of her heart, character, and the way she carried herself, which makes it clear that preparation for our purpose isn't just about physical appearance but about strengthening and refining our hearts and minds as well.
What Can We Learn from Esther?
Esther's story shows that beauty treatments, while part of her external preparation, were not the focus of her selection. Instead, her inner beauty, humility, and favor with God set her apart. In the same way, our beauty, whether physical or spiritual, should be an outward expression of God’s grace and goodness in our lives. Beauty treatments, like those Esther received, can be part of our overall care and preparation, but they will never overshadow the importance of being aligned with God’s will. Like with Esther's treatments using oil of myrrh for healing and purification, we, too, should undergo spiritual "bathing" to align ourselves with God’s will. This is also a reminder that both inner and outer beauty matter, but inner beauty and purity are paramount. Twelve months of beauty treatments (6 months with oil of myrrh and 6 months with perfumes and cosmetics) were a symbolic preparation for Esther's role as queen. The time she spent being prepared physically, emotionally, and spiritually reflects how we, too, go through seasons of preparation before stepping into our purpose or destiny.
Whether you're stepping into a new calling or progressing through your established journey, Sweet Life Skincare and Beauty Treatments is here to support you with the best skincare and spa treatments.
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