Esther 1-4

Esther 1-4

As I read the first part of the story of Esther today, it occurred to me just how socially and politically incorrect the events of this story are in comparison to today's standards (Western standards anyway).

The thing about a kingdom is that the rule of law is the rule of the king. There are no votes. Although a wise king would seek advice, the final authority was his.

I wonder if we could see God as King and respond to Him accordingly in this His Kingdom?

A democratic society has no concept of monarchical rule, but, to understand God's Kingdom one must do so. As far-fetched as the rule of Xerxes in his kingdom seems in our estimation, it does give a clearer picture of God's Kingdom if we will allow ourselves to see it.

Unlike Xerxes however, God is not persuaded by potentially uninformed counsel. We have repeated documentation that God is good, perfect, loving, just, merciful and even kind. He is a healer, provider, shepherd, and, we are told, a friend. His motivation is friendship, fellowship and love. We have every reason to enjoy His Kingdom with Him as King.

However, the proud and arrogant do have something of God's character to dread - His justice. We must not forget that, like we see in Xerxes, the king controls justice. It matters not what Vashti's motivation was, it was outside the will of the king. And so, Vashti's relationship and fellowship with Xerxes suffered eternally. Once Esther was crowned queen, Vashti was not even mentioned again in the rest of the story. There is something to think about!

Father, I want to be in fellowship with You. I want to comply with Your wishes. I want to come to You when You call.