Esther 1:10-11

New International Version

On the seventh day, when King Xerxes was in high spirits from wine, he commanded the seven eunuchs who served him… to bring before him Queen Vashti, wearing her royal crown, in order to display her beauty to the people and nobles, for she was lovely to look at.

For Meditation

I do not know about you, but I am so glad I quit drinking when the Lord took hold of me and turned me away from the things that do not promote righteous living. Some of these things may not be sinful, but they can be weights that hinder the child of God from running the race well (Hebrews 12:1). They could also eventually lead to sin. A typical example is alcohol intake, and I want us to consider the story of King Xerxes for some helpful insights.

The man celebrated his third year for one hundred and eighty days (Esther 1:4). According to the king’s generosity, everybody could drink without limit (7-8). You can imagine the atmosphere in the city. 

The story continues with Xerxes high in spirit from wine. He called for his wife, Queen Vashti, to come and display her beauty before his people and the nobles (11). Now, what was that? How could anybody in his right senses want to subject his wife to such public ridicule before a bunch of drunk men? 

Unfortunately, the king was not in his right mind. Alcohol had taken captive of his senses, using him for its pleasure. 

Thank God for women who will not allow men to treat them as mere objects of pleasure but stand up for their dignity and self-respect. For all such women like Vashti (12), God bless you. 

Furious at Vashti’s non-compliance, King Xerxes sought counsel, and guess where he looked for it—from his drunk advisors (13). What kind of advice did he expect, but the self-centered, inconsiderate, and male chauvinistic counsel from Memucan (16-20)? 

When a person is under the influence of alcohol, any foolish idea, advice, decision, or action sounds good to them (21-22). Does it sound familiar? Please, pause here and think about all the poor decisions and actions you have engaged in when you were under the influence. King Solomon was right.

Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler;

     whoever is led astray by them is not wise (Proverbs 20:1).

Paul adds to this discussion with a better alternative for the believer.

Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesian 5:18). 

Maybe this reminder will stir some sanctified thinking about the whole subject of drinking for someone before it turns him into a mocker and a brawler. If not for your sake, your weak brother or sister could use your encouragement from your abstention (1 Corinthians 8:14).