SOAPing Esther- He can use rash decisions for His purpose

I’m reading and SOAPing my way through Esther. Today I am sharing my SOAP response to chapter one 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: Esther 1:19

Therefore, if it pleases the king, let him issue a royal decree and let it be written in the laws of Persia and Media, which cannot be repealed, that Vashti is never again to enter the presence of King Xerxes. Also let the king give her royal position to someone else who is better than she.

Observation:

There seems to be a lot going on in this chapter, but it all boils down to the fact that King Xerxes requested Vashti’s presence and she said “no,” so King Xerxes consulted his advisors and they told him to replace her so that women would see that it is important it is to respect their husband as rulers of the household.

Commentaries suggest that there was a lot going on than a simple reading of the text may suggest. However the bottom line here is that Vashti was replaced in response to her actions (or inaction) here. And this sets into motion the story of Esther.

Application:

So how can I apply this to my life? I’m not really sure yet. At surface, the message seems to be to respect my husband as ruler of our house, yet I’m sure someone out there will argue with me on that, as Xerxes’ law was made under the influence of rage and probably too much drinking of wine.

I could also apply it by remembering that God is the master planner and he is able to use our actions, both good and bad, for His glory, should we let Him. These rash actions and decisions opened up the opportunity for Esther to shine… and her submission to save her people.

I think my application today is this: Remember that God is the master planner. And by submitting to Him and the authorities He places in my life, His glory will shine and His will be done.

Prayer:

Lord, I think I am getting better at listening and submitting to you and my husband, but I also have a long way to go. Even if I do try to get ahead of myself and you, too, I do know that you are the master planner. You have amazed me as you have revealed so many things to me which show me that. Please keep guiding me to slow down when I get ahead and also to see that you are there in everything. And you can turn sour situations into those which glorify You, if we all just listen and act in accordance with your will.

I love you, God. Thanks for always being there. And thanks for using even rash decisions for your purpose.

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

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

If you disagree with something I’ve shared or another commenter shares, please remember to be respectful in your response back. You might even want to remember the old adage that you ‘catch more flies with honey than vinegar.’ Please use kind, respectful words or your comment may not remain.

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