Defiant or Humble?

In ancient Persia, men dominated every part of society. It was assumed that women existed to serve men. We see this attitude in the banquet held by King Ahasuerus, where everything was done “according to each man’s pleasure.”

Ahasuerus displayed this attitude toward his wife, Vashti. He assumed that she existed for his pleasure. But Vashti resented this attitude, realizing she was being treated as an object.

The male-dominated attitude was displayed when the king, “merry with wine,” commanded that the queen be brought before him. He wanted to show off her beauty.

But Ahasuerus was stunned when Vashti “refused to come at the king’s command.” He became angry. Then, both he and other leaders realized that other women might follow her example. They agreed that something decisive needed to be done.

It was determined that a new queen needed to be chosen. They decided to choose a queen who would be beautiful, but also understand that she was to be subservient to her husband.

On the surface, they accomplished these objectives, and Esther seemed to be the perfect queen. But these men could not have known that Esther, in fact, was ruled by a higher standard. They did not know that she was Jewish and that she was committed to their tradition, and to God.

In fact, she was willing to stand up to the king. Not with defiance, like Vashti, but in a spirit of humility. Through tact, a brilliant strategy, and God’s favor, Esther influenced the king to reverse the decision to have her people executed.

Esther demonstrated the importance of attitude. In every situation, we are to be humble. Always seeking to serve and sensitive to God’s leading. Always committed to His Kingdom. Regardless of outward appearance, to be beautiful in spirit. But also full of faith and bold.