Purpose Study Bible 315: Preparing for Purpose

In Esther 1, Esther’s name isn’t mentioned yet, but God was already setting the stage for her—and for her cousin Mordecai—to enter the kingdom. We read,

Then the king said to the wise men who understood the times (for this was the king’s manner toward all who knew law and justice, those closest to him being Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, and Memucan, the seven princes of Persia and Media, who had access to the king’s presence, and who ranked highest in the kingdom): “What shall we do to Queen Vashti?" (Esther 1:13-15).

Queen Vashti had snubbed the king's invitation so she was removed from her position, and the king summoned his wisest men for a consultation. These men had distinguished themselves and thus had been promoted. The first lesson is clear: don’t wait until you’re promoted to learn and grow. Prepare now so that when opportunity comes, God can trust you with it.

Second, Mordecai and Esther would soon join and surpass these wise men in wisdom and insight, for we know that the wisdom of God surpasses the wisdom of the world. Therefore, your job is to grow in that wisdom and knowledge and God will certainly use you, perhaps even bringing you before powerful people and significant leaders. Of course, the areas of greatest growth for you involve your gifts and creative purpose.

What are you doing to increase your knowledge and wisdom? Are you getting ready to stand before kings and queens? Are you even interested in serving God at higher levels of the church, business, or society in general? The only way for God to reach the world is through His people, so it doesn’t serve His cause for you to stay unprepared or uncertain of who you are. Determine to play your part faithfully, and be ready—He may be preparing to promote you far beyond what you’ve imagined.