The Greatest Influence

Exploring the Influence of Queen Vashti and Christ in the Scriptures

In a society filled with judgment, even as Christians, the characters in scripture offer valuable insights into the human experience. Yet, we sometimes rush to judge these figures, missing the important lessons their stories provide. As Apostle Paul writes in 2 Timothy 3:16-17,

2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness...”

The characters in the Bible encourage reflection and growth in our spiritual journeys rather than serving as mere subjects of critique.

One character whose story is frequently overlooked is Queen Vashti, the wife of King Ahasuerus. Her brief but significant story offers insights into the kind of influence she could have brought into the kingdom and the consequences of her actions.

The Story of Queen Vashti

An elegant throne representing the status and influence of Queen Vashti.

Queen Vashti's legacy begins in the Book of Esther, where her beauty and royal role set the stage for her act of defiance. The king commanded her to appear before his guests to showcase her beauty; however, she refused. The Book of Esther 1:12 records:

"But Queen Vashti refused to come at the king’s command delivered by the eunuchs. At this the king became enraged, and his anger burned within him. "

This pivotal moment illustrates how Vashti’s decision not only ignited the king's fury, but could have led to profound consequences throughout the kingdom. The king's advisers jumped into action, as they saw the potential chaos from Vashti's refusal. In Esther 1:17, they pointed out:

"For the queen’s behavior will be made known to all women, causing them to look at their husbands with contempt..."

Due to this realization, they advised the king to remove the queen and replace her with another. This highlights just how much influence people have on others, and how their actions can either inspire people in a good way or stir up trouble.

The Power of Influence

A beautiful castle interior that mirrors a royal setting.

Reading the Book of Esther and the story of Queen Vashti made me realize how easily one's actions, especially those in significant positions, can impact others. These impacts can be either positive or negative.The wise men were certainly wise enough to understand this.

Given the Queen's position, many people, particularly the women in King Ahasuerus's kingdom, could have easily been swayed or influenced by her actions. In today's world, we indeed have many "Queen Vashti's" who hold significant positions and have their own spheres of influence.

While some individuals we admire in their spheres of influence may lead us away from the teachings of Christ, others can guide us closer to Him. Those who could lead us away from His teachings, may appear intelligent and articulate, yet their words, which are alien to the scriptures, gradually steer us away from God. As believers, we must evaluate and reflect, much like the wise men did, the negative impact these individuals might have on us and distance ourselves from them if their influence steers us away from God.

Our Impact on Others

Furthermore, while these influencers could be people who hold high positions in the society, we also have to be conscious and cautious of the influence we have on those around us. Queen Vashti, might have forgotten her significant influence on the people, hence her reaction. But we on the other hand, must always keep in mind the different ways we can positively influence others.

Queen Esther, who succeeded Queen Vashti, is an example of someone who understood that her decision to speak up or stay silent could impact the lives of others, particularly the jews she spoke up for. She is an example of someone who was conscious enough to be a positive influence.

Christ the Greatest Influencer

As previously mentioned, we as believers are to positively impact the lives of others in the way of the Lord. But to do this effectively, Christ must have the primary influence on our lives. He led a life worth emulating. He showed us how to live—by walking in love, forgiveness, giving hope to the hopeless, and being compassionate, amongst others. So, to positively influence those around us, we must first reflect Christ. Romans 13:14 states,

“But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.”

Therefore, to influence others in the path of the Lord and be influencers of Christ, we must learn to put on Christ daily and embody his teachings at all times. Indeed, It might not be easy, but the Holy Spirit makes it possible to do so. Let us rely on Him.

Learning from the Errors and Successes of others

Finally, it is wisdom for us to see the errors of others and learn from it. But it is also wisdom to see the good of others and learn from it. Queen Vashti’s actions might not have been a good influence on the women in the kingdom, but we can learn from her, to be cautious of the kind of influence we want to have on others, and lean towards being good influencers.

Christ, our greatest influencer, offers a perfect life worth emulating as we guide others through Him. By recognizing the power of our choices and the far-reaching impact they can have, we embrace our role as influencers aligned with God's purpose. Through the lens of scripture, may we continually find guidance and encouragement as we journey together in faith.