The Book of Esther

In my devotional time, I've been studying through the Old Testament book of Esther, and I must confess that its message has really gotten my attention. It is only one of two books that are named after women, the other of course being the book of Ruth. The book of Esther is a love story much like the story of Cinderella, a story about a beauty pagent, a royal wedding, a king, and an evil enemy. Esther has the unique characteristic of being the only book in the Bible that does not mention the name of God. Not even one time. And yet one cannot help but read the story of Esther and see God behind every word. It shows us how the providence of God is at work behind the scene, how God has a real purpose and intention behind the events that take place in our lives.

The story begins in chapter 1 with the Persian king Ahasuerus and his glorious royal throne room. All of the lords and lordesses are gathered for a banquet, and all of the nobles of the kingdom are present and accounted for. Verse 4 says, "And he displayed the riches of his royal glory and the splendor of his great majesty for many days, 180 days." Evidently, he was proud of all his accomplishments. How true it is that we often brag about what we have, when in reality the Bible says that all that we have is a gift from the Lord. He alone deserves glory and credit for the things in our possession. We must recognize that we are stewards of everything, and owners of nothing. Well, the story continues in chapter 1 as we're told of the lavish and extravagant lifestyle of this king as seen in the decoration of his banquet hall. There were tapestries of fine linen, held up by cords of royal purple, with silver rings and marble columns. It was all so very extravagant, to say the least.

Based on what he boasted of, it would seem that the king had it all. He had power, wealth, fame, and the respect of those within his kingdom. However, things were not so well behind the scenes. For we are told that his queen, Vashti, refused to come when he called for her. Desiring to show off her beauty before those who were gathered, the king calls for his wife and intends on making her a public display. Her refusal to come is taken as disrespect, and the king looses face in the eyes of his subjects. No matter who we are or what we have, we never have the right to exploit and take advantage of others. A man can have all the respect in the world, but if he doesn't have the respect of those closest to him, such as his children and his wife, what then does he have? Don't depend on wealth and riches to the exclusion of your family.

So many in our generation are pursuing material success, but they don't realize the true cost. My idea of success is a wife who loves me, and a home that honors the Lord Jesus. Money cannot buy the true wealth that King Jesus gives! Today on my birthday, I consider myself to be the richest man in the world.