May 20 : For His Glory

 

by Dr. Terry-Ann Robinson

Key Text: “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pleases the king, let him issue a royal decree and let it be written in the laws of Persia and Media, which cannot be repealed, that Vashti is never again to enter the presence of King Xerxes.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.” — Esther 1:19

Queen Vashti had it all, stunning beauty, royal status, and the resources of the Persian Empire at her fingertips. She didn’t have to chase trends or prove her worth with outward enhancements; her place as queen was secure. When King Xerxes threw a lavish seven-day feast for the men of Susa, Vashti hosted one for the women, each party pulsing with the opulence of the palace.

At this party it was not BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle), just endless royal wine, all on the house. After few days, the wine began to consume the men more than they consumed it. In a haze, King Xerxes demanded Queen Vashti’s presence, wishing to display her beauty before his intoxicated guests. It’s a scene that echoes across generations, how often do we see prominent men parade their wives or partners for show? Even in our churches and communities, the temptation to make life a spectacle is ever-present.

How we you know when it’s all about the show?

When we compare ourselves to others. When encouragement for a friend comes wrapped in stories about our own achievements. When we feel resentful if someone else gets the spotlight and we don’t. If these ring true, perhaps we’re more invested in the show than we realize.

But Vashti wasn’t. With courage and dignity, she refused the king’s summons. Ellen White wrote, “Vashti refused to obey the king’s command, thinking that when he came to himself, he would commend her course of action.” (CC 243.4)

Instead of praise, Vashti lost her crown. Imagine her confusion. She had acted with integrity, yet was punished.

Have you ever done right and faced only ridicule or loss in return? Have you expected a reward for your faithfulness and received anger instead?

Vashti couldn’t see the end of the story, but God did. Behind the scenes, He was orchestrating something greater, for His glory, not for the world’s applause. Vashti was not mentioned anywhere else in the bible. Yet, today we speak about how she stood up to a King and refused to be a “show girl”. Are you willing to stand for what is right or be a part of the show?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, give me the courage to honor You above all else. Help me to seek Your approval, not the applause of others. When my acts of faithfulness go unnoticed or are misunderstood, remind me that You see my heart and my story. Strengthen me to stand firm in integrity, trusting that You are working for my good and Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.