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Woes of Man to the Ways of God!
Rod ShimabukuroHe was bringing up Hadassah, that is Esther, the daughter of his uncle, for she had neither father nor mother. The young woman had a beautiful figure and was lovely to look at, and when her father and her mother died, Mordecai took her as his own daughter. Esther 2:7
The writer of Esther is not hesitant to describe Esther’s outward appearance. Her entrance being accepted into the King’s harem validates Esther’s outward beauty. For a year, the women chosen to be in this royal group, were given the finest of beauty treatments. I’m assuming many of whom with hopes to be chosen to be with the King.
Hadassah mean myrtle. The myrtle trees flowers were used to create a perfume. Hadassah’s name was changed to Esther, Persian for “Star.” And that she was in the worlds eyes - with seemingly an amazing-stunning beauty. She was certainly created and chosen to be God’s aroma, scented to attract a King, who would be used as God’s “Star” to save His people.
Mordecai is staged in this redemptive story, as Esther’s uncle who is her outside, on the streets advisor. His streets smart involvement was God’s sovereign way of revealing to Esther, the woes of man - to then act in the ways of God.
That’s part of my application!! How God takes the woes of man in my life, to help me walk in the Ways of God! The woes of man has to do with how “others’ act around me, how I’m treated, the sinfulness of others affecting me...etc...
But I cannot allow the woes of man to distract me from living and walking in the Ways of God! In fact, God is Greater than Mordecai! :) God is the wise informant, warning and advising me to get me out of trouble for His glory (not mine!). God is developing, molding me to be used for something greater than myself. It’s not about you, Rod....says the Lord!
The Lord would say - I will advise and guide you into My ways, to help others escape the woes of man. Listen to me and I will give you wisdom and discernment. Some decisions may not be easy - may even seem contrary to your wants and ways. I am Your aroma, people will be drawn to you - and lead them to the Main Star... Jesus!
Dear Lord - I will continue to pray in the Spirit... for I am humbled, honored and fear You! This word is bearable when ”I feel“ like I can handle and control my destiny. But I think Your calling me to WALK IN YOUR WAYS!
