Your promotion is waiting on you
Dr. Asha Fields Brewer
Queen Esther is a familiar role model. We know her as a beautiful Jewish woman who replaced Queen Vashti. We also know Esther to be the reason the Jews were saved from being killed. Even with this great resume, one thing that really sticks out about her story is her esteem.
Before Esther had a title, she was one of many young beautiful women recruited to replace the queen. Even though she stood next to these women every day, something about her stood out. In fact, a manager was placed in charge of these royal recruits, and Esther became one of his favorites. From then on, the manager “advanced” Esther. He ensured that she received the finest supplies, living quarters, and team of assistants. Esther’s esteem elevated her.
Later, after Esther is crowned as the queen, she learns that the Jews, her native people, are in danger of being mass executed. She is advised by her cousin Mordecai, and she puts her esteem into action. Queen Esther prepares to meet with the king, even though she knows that going to see him without being summoned by him could get her killed! However, Esther’s esteem elevated her once again. Esther 5:2, ESV, records, “And when the king saw Queen Esther standing in the court, she won favor in his sight, and he held out to Esther the golden scepter that was in his hand…”
Just like Esther, there is another dimension of favor waiting for you if you’d esteem yourself well enough to walk into that place. You can’t get a new job still being unsure of your skills and abilities at your current job. You can’t find your spouse while doubting your own value and worth. You can’t expect your children to grow up healthy and value themselves, while you neglect to eat well, drink well, and do well to care for yourself. You can’t expect your mate to appreciate your beauty or handsome appearance, while you nitpick at yours every time you see a mirror. You can’t expect your temple to perform at the highest level, if all you do is criticize it, neglect it, and wish it looked like, sounded like, and functioned like someone else’s.
You must esteem yourself where you are right now as who you are right now, so you can be elevated to another place. Work on your esteem on purpose. Reflect on areas where you doubt yourself; areas where you think you fall short; and areas in which you feel unsure, uneasy, uncertain, or unworthy. Intentionally invest in mending places where your esteem is low or absent. Seek God’s guidance for mentors, role models, and experiences that will help you develop your esteem. Reach out to your Mordecai. Put your esteem into action and walk in your favor.
Dr. Asha Fields Brewer is a creator of healthy conversations. As a national speaker and published author, she teaches the busy and overwhelmed how to live life abundantly. She is the owner of the Temple Fit Co. wellness agency, which is home to 25-plus wellness speakers and fitness instructors. Tune in to “Temple Fit Devotions with Dr. Asha” on Wednesdays at 4 p.m. on Hallelujah 95.3 FM.
