Choosing The Eternal Over The Temporary
Sunday, August 24
Esther 5:3-6 (NIV)
“Then the king asked, “What is it, Queen Esther? What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be given you.” “If it pleases the king,” replied Esther, “let the king, together with Haman, come today to a banquet I have prepared for him.” “Bring Haman at once,” the king said, “so that we may do what Esther asks.” So the king and Haman went to the banquet Esther had prepared. As they were drinking wine, the king again asked Esther, “Now what is your petition? It will be given you. And what is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be granted.”
Devotion
Imagine the weight of this moment, Esther could have chosen wealth, influence, or security for herself. But she looked beyond temporary reward and chose something eternal: the deliverance of her people. Her request was not for her own advancement but for the salvation of the nation God had placed in her care.
This mirrors how God deals with us. Our Heavenly King is ready to bless us abundantly. He tells us in His Word that He is able to do “exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20). Yet, there is a deeper favor released when we align our requests with His purposes. Like Esther, when our desires move beyond self-gain to Kingdom impact, we touch eternity.
The king of Persia was willing to give Esther half the kingdom, but our God is willing to give us the fullness of His Kingdom. Jesus said, “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32). When we live in obedience to Him, He not only blesses us with good gifts but also uses our lives to bring lasting change in the lives of others.
Today’s Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your unending favor and for the assurance that You delight in blessing Your children. Help me not to settle for temporary comforts when You are calling me to impact eternity. Give me wisdom and courage like Esther to align my desires with Your Kingdom purposes. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
Examine your prayers and desires this week. Are they focused mostly on temporary rewards, or do they carry eternal significance? Ask God to shift your heart toward Kingdom-centered prayers that bring glory to Him and lasting impact to others.
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