S) "21 This word pleased the king and the princes, and the king did as Memucan proposed. 22 So he sent letters to all the king’s provinces, to each province according to its script and to every people according to their language, that every man should be the master in his own house and the one who speaks in the language of his own people."
Esther 1:21-22 (NASB)
O) Essentially, Ahasuerus (king) was publically disobeyed by Vashti (queen) and the wives of all the nobles took notice. When all of the other women began to act and speak in their queen's example, the men were obviously upset. So, some nobles came to the king and asked him to establish the law as we read in the above two verses. It is worth noting that this king did not fear the LORD, nor does the Bible commend his actions. This is prime example of people trying to legislate morality.
A) The Bible does teach that I am the head of my wife (see Ephesians 5:23), but also that disciples of Christ are not to lord their leadership over the people under their care (see Matthew 20:25-26). The real issue here, is that I should be loving my wife in such a way that she won't even be tempted to follow bad examples of being a wife. The whole reason that Vashti and these other noblewomen were behaving as they were, is because of the oppression and objectification of women. I also need to be careful not to keep contemptible company. The king obviously could have taken better advice, but circumstances being what they were, perhaps no better advice could be given safely. In the end, I must remember that the leadership I have is about shepherding, loving and protecting, sacrificing myself in service. I am the master of no one, even if I am the leader of many.
P) Father, You alone are master. You alone are sovereign and may establish rule. Keep me humble, Lord, to remember that I am only a steward of Your people. In my marriage, I am a shepherd of Your daughter. In my parenting, I am custodian of Your children. Let me bear that mantle responsibly. Help me to be sacrificial, serving, humble, and loving. Be glorified, as I lead my family. Let others see Your grace, mercy, hope, and love. I want You to receive all honor. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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