Defender of the Faith: Lessons from the Queen Part II

To what greater inspiration and counsel can we turn than to the imperishable truth to be found in this treasure house, the Bible?

Queen Elizabeth II

In our last post, we looked at five lessons gleaned from the life of Queen Elizabeth, based on Bryan Kozlowski’s book, Long Live the Queen! and article “Life Lessons from the Queen.” When we examine Scripture that supports the principles guiding her life, the evidence is clear: Queen Elizabeth leads a faith-based life.

This week’s post presents the next five lessons.

Lesson 6: Brush Aside Vanity

Kozlowski titles a chapter of his book, “There is No “I” in Majesty.” The Queen is modest and doesn’t care for the celebrity her position brings.  She’s unself-focused to the point of preferring the pronoun one rather than I or me.

Queen Elizabeth’s sense of humor attests to a lack of vanity. When her scowl was captured in photographs at Charles and Diana’s wedding, she quipped, “Oh Phillip, do look! I’ve got my Miss Piggy face on.”

What are you doing, you devastated one? Why dress yourself in scarlet and put on jewels of gold? Why highlight your eyes with makeup? You adorn yourself in vain.

Jeremiah 4:30 (NIV)

The Queen understands authentic beauty:

Rather, it [beauty] should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.

Peter 3:4 (NIV)

Lesson 7: Never Stop Playing

Queen Elizabeth carried her playful, childlike spirit into adulthood. Family members call her mischievous, and she often places her tongue firmly in cheek when interacting with world leaders. Her childhood passion for horses still brings her joy daily.

The Bible’s instruction regarding fun and play is clear.

I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.

Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 (NIV)

So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun.

Ecclesiastes 8:15 (NIV)

Lesson 8: Keep the Faith

Queen Elizabeth’s faith is the cornerstone on which she builds her life, as was established in Part I of this post.

“I know the only way to live my life is to try to do what is right, to take the long view, to give of my best in all that the day brings and to put my trust in God (183),” Queen Elizabeth is quoted as saying.

For by me your days will be multiplied, and years will be added to your life.

Proverbs 9:11 (ESV)

Dan Buettner’s study of the longest living individuals in the world revealed that a common denominator was “healthy centenarians everywhere have faith.” Trusting that God is in control helps relieve anxiety and contributes to health and wellbeing.

Lesson 9: Be Open to Change

Queen Elizabeth has successfully navigated huge change throughout her monarchy. Although fond of sticking to a daily routine, she embraces change better than any of her predecessors.

Her faith plays a role. The only constant in this life is God. Knowing the One in charge never Himself changes reassures her.

I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed.

Malachi 3:6 (NIV)

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

Hebrews 13:8 (NIV)

Lesson 10: Cherish Your Crowning Years

Research shows the world’s happiest are in their seventies, and their contentment continues to climb into the eighties and beyond. These individuals continue to rejoice as they age. Queen Elizabeth’s attitude mirrors theirs.

They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green.

Psalms 92:14 (ESV)

The Queen asserts there is more to celebrate as the years pass, rather than less. Such belief grows out of her faith and deep-rooted gratitude. The Queen is quite practiced in counting life’s blessings.

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!

1 Chronicles 16:34 (ESV)
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20 Comments

  1. Thank you for researching the history and sharing this Scripture-rich article. What a creative way to combine history and biblical truth.

    1. Thanks, Jeannie. It’s important to get the word out that many successful people and phenomenal leaders depend on our heavenly Father for guidance and living life well. Mainstream media doesn’t make a big deal about their Belief.

  2. Thanks for your devotion. I loved learning more about Queen Elizabeth through all of the lessons. The Bible verses helped to cap each lesson off. Scripture is the key for living our life for Christ through His wisdom and guidance, These lessons were very inspiring and encouraging.

    1. Me too, Barb! It’s easier for me to find time for play now that I’m “retired.” but I still neglect this basic need too often. I have added golf to my list of activities, but I can’t say that it’s fun just yet.

  3. I enjoyed both posts about Queen Elizabeth, I love learning about the lives of leaders and historical figures. I recently read Craig von Buseck’s Victor: The Final Battle of Ulysses S. Grant and learned more about that great man. We can appreciate those who impact the world when we discover more about the real person behind the leadership position they hold. Thanks for sharing this fascinating post, Candyce.

  4. Such a blessing. Makes one want to do an inventory of oneself. Nope, definitely not queen material, yet. 🙂 Thank you Ms. Candyce. Have enjoyed this immensely ma’am.

  5. Another wonderful set of guidelines for faithful living. They are all good (including last week’s), but I am especially fond of maintaining a spirit of play. Being active, joyful, and playful helps us stay young, healthy, and happy. It’s so much easier to share love and happiness with others if we feel those emotions ourselves. Play helps maintain joy in our journey. I’m enjoying this series. Thank you.

  6. I’m currently reading a 31 day devotional- “Daring Devotion” about those who lived God’s promises- living the truth and promises of God in hard times.
    I enjoyed your posts on Queen Elizabeth. – bottom line: faith.

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