Favour with men.
We read of Esther that "the maiden pleased" the custodian, and that "she obtained kindness of him;" that she "obtained favour in the sight of all them that looked upon her;" that she "obtained grace and favour in the sight of the king more than all the virgins." Thus she obtained the influence which she used to so good and benevolent purpose in after years.
I. THERE ARE CERTAIN QUALITIES BY WHICH THE FAVOUR OF OUR FELLOW-BEINGS IS GAINED. Natural endowments are the easiest passport to general favour. A handsome presence, beautiful features, a winning voice, natural and graceful manners, all have great immediate influence with society generally. Genius and heroism, learning and accomplishments, birth and station, all these contribute to popularity. It seems a very easy thing for some persons to become general favourites; yet many of the qualities which secure favour are the result of painstaking and study. In the case of Esther, her extreme beauty, and the simplicity and humility of her demeanour, and the modesty and integrity of her character, all contributed to make her the favourite of the king, and the court, and the people.
II. GENERAL FAVOUR SECURES REMARKABLE INFLUENCE. Men will listen to the counsels or the requests of those who enjoy their affection and esteem. In all stations of life there are those who, being in favour, are therefore in power. Esther used the influence—which another in her position might have employed for selfish ends—for the public good. But had she not won esteem and confidence she would have been without the power to do the great service she rendered.
III. THOSE WHO ENJOY FAVOUR WITH MEN ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ITS WISE EMPLOYMENT. How often have kings' favourites treed their influence for sordid and vile purposes! And how often is popularity prostituted to base ends l Like other "talents," the favour a Christian enjoys should be used for the promotion of the cause of righteousness and human happiness. For the employment of this, as of other sources of influence, men must give at last an account to God.
Practical lessons:—
1. The young should cultivate qualities and habits which may give them favour with men. There is a foolish notion that moroseness is usually associated with independence and integrity. But we have the Scriptural admonition, Be courteous. And we read that the Lord Jesus "grew in favour with God and men."
2. Those who enjoy favour should endeavour, with watchfulness and prayer, to use the gift for the good of their fellow-men and the glory of God.