Text: Esther 1:1-22
After the King of Persia had secured his authority, he then displayed his great wealth for six months! After the boasting, he gave an enormous week-long banquet for his people. During that party, the King commanded Queen Vashti to stand before everyone so that he could display her beauty. The Queen was offended, probably because the King treated her as if she were just a possession. So, she refused to attend. The King became very angry, and His counsellors suggested he gets a new queen. Not only would this make the King happy, but they think it will send a message to all the wives of the Kingdom that they must honor their husbands.
What the King failed to acknowledge was that his wealth was from God, as
everything is, including his rise to power (Dan.2:21). He should be glorifying
God, not boasting, as if his reign were by his own strength. The King should also have treated Queen Vashti respectfully. He should realize that he is not better than she is. Before God, she is equal to the King, so she must be treated with dignity. Women will certainly honour their husbands who love them selflessly, as Christ loves His people (Eph.6:25). Regarding redemption, those who humble themselves before the Saviour will be brought into His Kingdom (Mat.5:3).
Meditate on verses 10-11. What are some of the effects of wine in these
verses?
Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, help me to shun wine and alcohol. Amen.