A Little Bit of Charisma and A Whole Lot of Courage

Most of us think of charisma as something reserved for politics and executives, or a type of magic your born with. We all know that kid who wins over the crowd with his smile and that successful extravert that leads the company to a big win.

Then there’s the me type – introvert, introspective and put off by the in-your-face types usually associated with charisma.

But after a study of Esther and her oh-so-effective leadership skills, I’ve changed my mind. Maybe I have a little charisma in me. Maybe I influence people more than I think. Most importantly maybe I can learn something that God can use.

Here it goes… how to use charisma to win over kings and change kingdoms. (Or how to win over people and change a little something one day at a time.)

There is a lot of debate about Esther’s moral character, even the historicity of the text. I am going to leave that to those who want to argue their point and focus on a little part that reveals big truth.

Charisma isn’t just for the crooked.

“There must have been a singular grace and charm in her aspect and manners, since she obtained favour in the sight of all them that looked upon her” Esther 2:15 

The Greek origin of the word charisma is kharis, meaning favor and grace. I am not sure when the word charisma started sounding more like a character flaw than something of fleeting beauty, but I am glad to set it straight.

The Urban Dictionary defines charisma as “a beautiful, outgoing ,loving and caring person. She has a huge heart and loves hard.”

Straight from the Word of God and backed up by the Urban Dictionary – Esther had charisma. And we can learn a few things from her.

Consider the culture and proceed with kindness.

And I’m not just talking about another country. Right here in my own community, and yours, there are differing cultures. They may be socioeconomic, religious, age-defined, or something different I can’t put my finger on. The point is, respect differences before diving into conversations. Then proceed with kindness. Eventually, Esther broke through the cultural norms of her time, but it wouldn’t have been possible without the favor she gained.

Listen to others and learn to take advice.

Esther listened to her cousin Mordecai, and she listened to the Eunuch placed over her while in the Harem. She did not claim to know it all or have it all together. She didn’t throw a fit or start figuring her own way out. She listened to the wisdom of others who had more experience and a greater understanding of her situation. And she acted accordingly.

Be courageous and count on God.

Yes. You can be kind, humble and courageous. Our society has convinced us the source of courage is held in our own ability. If the super-hero outfit doesn’t fit, hang it back up. There could be nothing further from the truth! Our source of courage is in Christ. And remember Esther’s story, she was afraid, but she proceeded anyway. Remember, courage is strength in the face of fear, not the absence of fear.

Though God’s name is never mentioned in the book of Esther, he is clearly at work. He is in control of the circumstances. Esther simply honors him with her character, her wisdom and her courage.

God is clearly at work in the lives of his people today. You may not be in line for queenship, but God does have a great plan for your life. Chances are it is going to require a little bit of charisma and a whole lot of courage.

Won’t you join me?