It seems that God accomplishes His good will

even through disobedience and discord in our marital relationship.

King Ahasuerus, who did not hold a banquet in honor of Queen Vashti,

favored and loved Esther even more.

He held a "great banquet" in her honor, inviting all his officials and servants,

declaring the day a public holiday, and sending gifts throughout the provinces of his kingdom

(Esther 2:17-18).

As I reflect on this passage, I think King Ahasuerus did not love Queen Vashti.

Therefore, I believe he did not hold a banquet for her.

Also, I wonder how much he loved Esther, as he went so far as to hold a great banquet

in her honor and declare that day a public holiday.

Perhaps God used even the strained relationship

between King Ahasuerus and Queen Vashti to elevate Esther to the position of queen.

It seems that God accomplishes His good will

even through disobedience and discord in our marital relationships.