SOAPing Esther- Following those who have authority over me is a good thing

I’m reading and SOAPing my way through Esther. Today I am sharing my SOAP response to chapter two and if you’re looking for a devotional guide or Bible reading plan, I’d love for you to join me. Here’s what stood out to me today:

Scripture:

I chose two rather than just one today.

Esther 2: 10

Esther had not revealed her nationality and family background, because Mordecai had forbidden her to do so.

Esther 2:15

When the turn came for Esther (the girl Mordecai had adopted, the daughter of his uncle Abihail) to go to the king, she asked for nothing other than what Hegai, the king’s eunuch, who was in charge of the harem, suggested.

Observation:

In both instances Esther does as she is instructed by those who have authority over her. In both cases she could have doubted and strayed from what she was instructed, but instead she did as told.

Application:

So often I want to second guess things. And so often I make things more difficult than they need to be because I want to put my own stamp on them. But in so many cases, I just need to listen to those who have authority over me and do as they request or guide. That’s it.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to hear your voice more clearly and follow your lead. And please also guide me as I move into discussing things with my husband more often and more thoroughly, seeking his guidance and then following it. I am learning that he can be a fantastic gatekeeper of my time. He often has better perspective, and talking out my plans with him helps me to see what I really can do and what I might be a tad unrealistic in thinking. It is awkward for me to say this, but I am learning how to be submissive and how to be a better teammate with him. Thank you so much for bringing him into my life and for showing me how to work with him and under his authority. (Ooh, that feels weird to say. But I am finding it to be beautifully true.)

Are you reading alongside me? If so, what grabbed you in today’s passage? How do you feel about submission? Please share in the comments.

If you’d like to join me, tomorrow I will be sharing my SOAP response to chapter three of Esther.

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Wondering what SOAP is? Click over to read What is SOAP?