Esther Series – part 2

Pastor Eric A. Green

 

“What shall we do to Queen Vashti, according to law, because she did not obey the command of King Ahasuerus brought to her by the eunuchs?” And Memucan answered before the king and the princes: “Queen Vashti has not only wronged the king, but also all the princes, and all the people who are in all the provinces of King Ahasuerus. “For the queen’s behavior will become known to all women, so that they will despise their husbands in their eyes, when they report, ‘King Ahasuerus commanded Queen Vashti to be brought in before him, but she did not come.’ “This very day the noble ladies of Persia and Media will say to all the king’s officials that they have heard of the behavior of the queen. Thus there will be excessive contempt and wrath. “If it pleases the king, let a royal decree go out from him, and let it be recorded in the laws of the Persians and the Medes, so that it will not be altered, that Vashti shall come no more before King Ahasuerus; and let the king give her royal position to another who is better than she. “When the king’s decree which he will make is proclaimed throughout all his empire (for it is great), all wives will honor their husbands, both great and small.” And the reply pleased the king and the princes, and the king did according to the word of Memucan. Esther 1:15-21

Poor Queen Vashti.  She had no idea one rash display of temperament would cost her the crown.  Her decision not to honor the king proved to be a bigger deal than she anticipated, and there was no place left for repentance. 

Regardless of how we feel about the queen's behavior, she did not exercise her prerogative wisely; and her position of influence magnified her action, causing her to be perceived as a major threat in to the king's authority.   This was seen as more than an isolated incident, but a fire that would spread throughout the land.

I'm reminded how important it is that I conduct myself honorably and discreetly before those in authority over me - not only for my own good, but for those I influence.  If the exercise of my rights dishonors those I serve, work for, civic, governmental, or spiritual leaders, I dishonor the God who put all authority in place (Romans 13:1).  In a day when we are taught to promote our own rights at all costs, we saints must remember all our rights were surrendered to Jesus. Even when it's not pleasant, we must walk in humility; remembering that God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).  Think about it.

Love and perfect peace,

Pastor Eric