hey sis! 🎉 Start studying the Bible with Notion today, sign up for free: ntn.so/melodyalisa03 and today's question is: what is your takeaway from Esther chapter 1?! For me, like I mentioned in the video, it's from verse 19 and it's the reminder that God is truly in control, or everyone and everything. He is making a way even when we don't realize it! this fact and realization calms my heart because transparently speaking, lately i've been experiencing anxiety and i haven't been able to place the origin of it. this truth really helped me see that i can REST in God's sovereignty, for real for real. let us know what stood out to you in the comments below! ♥
I served at Glory Atlanta! I wish we could have connected and said hi. We got a lot of great feedback! Glad you enjoyed it and got the sweatshirt at the event store. I lead the welcome team and worked the door both days so not sure how I missed you?
Ok I am so confused. I am trying to begin my study of the Bible. I saw your video and really like the Notion's idea. How do I get that template. I joined but can't find a Bible study template
Hey Melody! I love your wisdom and teachings of your lifestyle and walking with faith in the lord. I am a new subscriber, and was inspired to use notion and loved your notion set up. I was wondering if you could make a tutorial or provide us with a free template to set up our notion like yours?
Learning to study the Bible for myself as a christian has been the best decision I have made in my spiritual journey! My life has never been the same. It's amazing how a little quest for God opens up a whole new world of purpose to you! I also use the SOAP. Starting with a prayer always before opening the Bible has been a game-changer for me. God bless you so much Melody for this video 🤍
@@madaleinem8109 S for Scripture (that's the Bible verse), O for Observation (what you learned from the verse) A for Application (how you can apply it to your life and P for Prayer(pray to avoid the wrong or for grace to do the right learned from the scripture)
It stood out how wealthy the king was to the point that he could celebrate so lavishly for so long. I note his pride and self-glorification. I also note how the King's advisors used their influential positions to further their own agendas and look out for their own interests - and how laws and policies can be set, not on God's principles or standards, but men's. This happens even today in national governance. I also not how fickle man's affection can be - one day they love you the next day they hate you and cast you away. My lesson is not to depend on or live for men, but rather for God. Please God above pleasing men.
Verse 9 stood out to me "Queen Vashti also gave a feast for the women in the palace that belonged to king Ahasuerus." because I'm happy to see that she was able to include the women in the palace because back in those days women where just an after thought or seen as property so, she created a safe space for them and I love that for her!
What stood out to me is the Queen perhaps did not want to be on display and that instead of the King finding out why she did not want to attend, he chose to issue a decree (recommended by the eunuchs who could have been haters of the queen) that would apply to all women who disobey their husbands. Her refusal mixed in with his anger and embarrassment that his wife would say no to the King, would still be used by God to accomplish His purpose. Thank you "so much" for this study.
I pulled that rejections aren’t always bad. sometimes we have to experience set backs in order for God to set up his will. and that’s okay! also, I kind of looked in the perspective of Queen Vashti. I don’t really know the story of Esther, but this event with the king and Vashti opened the stage for Esther. sometimes when an opportunity is closed for us, we long for it. But that is dangerous because the position was needed for someone else, in this case, Esther. and someone reaping the benefits of your rejection isn’t an attack on you. It can be a blessing for so many people outside of yourself because it’s God’s perfect will. In conclusion, we should pray to be detached from circumstances that we may have placed for ourselves that was out of God’s will. So that we can find more peace when God’s hand switches things around. hope that makes sense.💘
Thank you for going through the bible with u! I recently watched a sermon by Sarah Jakes Roberts where she was discussing the first book of Esther. She said it is believed by many bible scholars that the king requested Vashti to come out in nothing but her crown, and she said no to protect her honor. What stands out to me from this word is how God will call us as women to assert our boundaries, even if it means losing a position. She gave up her queenship, but in the end, it was all part of God's plan. Can't wait to watch part 2!
You are so correct. If you look through hebrew translations like the Complete Jewish Bible it is read "10 On the seventh day, when the king was in high spirits from the wine, he ordered Mehuman, Bizta, Harvona, Bigta, Avagta, Zetar and Karkas, the seven officers who attended him, 11 to bring Queen Vashti before the king with the royal crown, in order to show the people and the officials her beauty, for she was indeed a good-looking woman. 12 But Queen Vashti refused to come at the order of the king, which he had sent through his officers. This enraged the king - his anger blazed inside him." The Jews will even tell you she was ordered to wear nothing but the crown and they were drunk men ready for a good time. -Ayla
This makes a lot more sense but even without the content of knowing the king requested she only wear her crown, i understood that her no means no and she shouldn’t have to obey the kings command at her expense.
I know this is the book of Esther so the focus is normally on how God set the stage for Esther and the great things that came after. Sometimes I wonder about Queen Vashti because that party was 180 days so what if she was tired, is she still not allowed to say no? As I am typing though, the thing that comes to mind is the word "approach." Instead of refusing the King which might have shocked and embarrassed him in front of his guest, she could have come and told him her reason, and the same grace he extended to Esther to hear her out later on in the book, maybe he would have extended it to Queen Vashti as well.
I love using the soap method during Bible Study! It honestly makes me feel like I've done a deep dive on a verse, it has been a complete game changer for me. I've started like last year, I'm still kinda at the beginning of my walk with Jesus and I can see an improvement with reading the Bible. However, it is a commitment and you will still have those days where you're sluggish and don't feel like praying and studying the Bible. Keep praying and keep going, you'll feel accomplished and just full of life. 💗
Hey Melody, first thank you for your content. A lot of verses stood out a totally of 8😭 but the 1:8 stood out the most and that verse basically said that the king let everyone drink their favorite wine with no restrictions. God showed me that a world without restrictions is a dangerous world, and with out God there is no restrictions so everyone is fair game but God pointed out to me Psalms 91:1 “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the most high will rest in the shadow of the Almighty” meaning to me that in a world with no restrictions as children of the most high we have to live with restrictions and boundaries for our safety. We have to abide in him and stay close to him because the world is dangerous. Thank you so much for this video, I look forward to doing more with you, and have encouraged me to do them again on my own💗💗
I’ve had Notion for years and I’ve never even imagined that I could use it for Bible study. I love this so much, thanks for walking through this with us. Please make more ❤ What I pulled from this first chapter was if the eunuchs that summoned Vashti were the same one’s that advised the king, maybe they held contempt for her and used that to their advantage against her in advising the king. All that to say, God can use anything for our favor!
Hey, I learned that things happen for a reason and that god is always in control no matter what. I really enjoyed this video and today was my first time using the SOAP methods. Thank you for this technique. May God bless you❤😊
Not sure if I will make sense but what I learned from the whole chapter especially from the verses that come after Queen Vashti refused the King’d summon is that when one is put in a position of power or of importance how he/she behaves is crucial…when you have people who look up to you as a Christian, they also look up to how we behave our character towards the things of God and the instructions of the Lord it can either bring them closer to God and inspire them to obey the Lord or just simply push the further away from the Lord and make them arrogant towards the instructions of the Lord…the Queen might have had a reason to refuse but she didn’t bother to explain herself but just ‘arrogantly’ refused to obey she could have humbly sent a message back to the King expelling why she couldn’t attend rather she just plainly refused without considering the King’s position even though she had valid reasons she could have communicated them. Bit sure if it makes sense
What stood out to me was how Aharus reacted. V12 says his anger burned within him, then v13 he called his wise men and sought counsel. I think everyone can learn something from that. That is be angry but do not sin in practice and it also highlights the importance of community. He sought counsel, this stood out to me because Im a loner. I like being alone I like doing things on my own. It’s very hard to include my friends in my struggles or tell them what Im going through. I rarely even call my friends, and I know they werent besties with the kings but they were the people he sought counsel from, his community. It makes me think - how do I react in moments of anger? Who do I seek counsel from?
What stood out to me was verse 15 when he asked “According to the law..” which conveyed that when encountering hard situations ask God for guidance or someone you know with wisdom that can help you finna a solution. Also confront the wise (mostly God) before coming to a conclusion.
Hey Melody, thank you for sharing this video with us. For me the verses that stuck out to me were 19-20. I’ve been struggling lately with respecting my husband. God has been dealing with me on this and those verses spoke loud and clear to me. Thank you for showing the SOAP method. I really like it and will continue to use it. Please continue with this series.
SI! Your ministry have been such a blessing to me. The other day, I said, "Lord, whetat's going on eithbmy life and your video on , "The Drlay is strategic" showed up. When I felt withjnnme to go through Esther. I read it but didn't really study. These videos are a year old, but here they are for me to go through on the book of Edther. The other day, I heard in my spirit,, "Haddasah". I looked the other up and recognized it is Esther. Sho but God. This is perfect timing, and I can not run from it. God wants me to study this. Do, Sis, thank you for this Bible study 🙏🏽❤
I am currently reading the book of Esther!! Thank you so much for this! please continue to do this studying this book of the Bible. I’ve been considering starting to take notes at church and for the Bible and will definitely start doing the SOAP method!! 💜
Thank you so much sis. Really loving the SOAP method. Verse 16 spoke to me in a sense that we are letters... known and read by everyone 2Corinth3:2 so my actions either point people to or away from Jesus
Thank you for this! I was studying right with you. Verse 17 stood out to me. It’s speaks on her conduct and how her decision will impact other women. My prayer is that God guides my decision making. 🙏🏽 hope to see more videos like this. 😀
absolutely needed this , appreciation to God for using you to share this method and Bible study !! Chapter 1 has opened my eyes on being a soft and submissive woman to the men God has placed in my life
I love this series so far and hope you do more books of the Bible in the future. Also I found a possible reasoning as to why Queen Vashit did not want to come to the kings banquet. My study Bible said that in other translations and readings of this story Xerxes was commanding Vashti to parade naked around his drunken party. The request was humiliating and so she refused. Between your video on this chapter and the footnotes in my Bible I've learned so much!
The scripture that stood out to me. Esther 1: 19 that Vashti is never again to enter the presence of King XerXes. Also let the king give her royal position to someone else who is better than she. This scripture stood out to me because God moved an obstacle out of Esther’s way. Which made me think about what God has for you is for you, no matter what. I want to thank you for creating this Bible Study video. You are a true blessing.
I LOVE THIS!!! I hope you do more on different books in the bible,this was my first time doing SOAP i have done it before but i was really young and didnt really put my all into it but when i did it with you OMG! i was so happy for my self i like the verse 12 where she refused to the kings order,the application for mine was its okay to say no to people with out a reason behind it. NO is a full sentence i have always been a people pleaser i like making people happy but i have said yes to people and have done things that made me uncomfortable an regret saying yes so i learned that its okay on saying no to people i know we are learning about esther but i wanna have queen vashti confidence on saying no to people. btw thank you alot for making this video you are most definitely doing gods work and helping people please do more videos of the other books in the bible!!!
Thank You Lord, His timing is perfect, this was exactly what I needed. Thank you Melody, please do more Bible study content that feels interactive, sending love and blessings from South Africa 😊❤
Wow. I really loved how you went through all the steps of the SOAP method. Please continue to do more Bible study with us. Also, thank you for informing us about the notion app. I look forward to not only using it for Bible study but for other tasks/goals as well.
What I learned from Esther Chapter 1 is that. Vasthi is an example to all women like us to learn how to say "NO" even though people may hate us for saying that word and how firmly we say it. We rather have friends who delight in the word NO than friends who will be angry when we say NO to them. I just started watching you and I really love your videos so much.
Pls do this again! It was so helpful! ... I have to think on what I just read but its funny GOD sure has been pulling me toward Esther so sitting with GOD on this and then I can get back to u with more feedback
In this chapter, it really helped me realize that God is using me for a big purpose, and although I may not picture it myself or understand his ways, I can always trust him.
For this chapter I more so got, communication with your spouse. I'm not saying the king was justified and as mentioned we truly don't know why the queen refused the king, but i feel like even if she was justified why not still go and like maybe try to talk to him and tell him how you feel and if he isn't respecting it then leave for protection of peace if that makes sense but I also liked your take away from this chapter and i see it both ways! I also love this method and can see myself REALLY learning a lot more using this method!!
It might seem so simple, but just a "NO" set my good sis freeee. And that's on BOUNDARIES! That's one of the things I took from this chapter and that stuck out for me in the place I am in my life right now. I was struggling to read today and randomly came across your page looking for a push and I'm thankful for this video, it helped me press through today.
I've been struggling with bible study in my life, like how to study the bible, what book to study, how can what I'm studying impact in my life. I literally just finished asking for for help, then I came across this video. Thank God for using you.. Please I'd love for you to continue with the series. God bless you
Melody, you're a blessing sis. Thanks for your obedience. God has been taking me through a journey of knowing who I am in him, what my role firstly is as a daughter of the King. This highlighted so much to me, and I'm even more confident in who He is and in my office of being a daughter. God fights for and fiercely loves His children. If he did it for Esther, He'll make a way for us! I'll be back, be blessed 🥰.
I loved studying with you, what stood out for me was that as children of God we are draped in our royal garments for the world to see and our conduct is so important that in all we do we need to honour God in our behaviour towards others so the world can see His beauty in us.
Thank you so much for this new learning style! Verse 5 stood out to me it’s basically a piggy back for give thanks to everyone! Love your neighbor as you love yourself. Don’t be selfish and give. Reminding me of tithing in a sense! Does anyone agree? Everyone be blessed!💗👸🏽
180 days is 1/7 of 3 1/2 years, which is “half a time” it makes me think of the sabbath, resting and thanksgiving, of revelation and also the parable of the bridesmaids with the lamp oil in Luke- we know not the hour but we need to be prepared when called.. and if we’re not prepared we won’t be chosen
This was good! Let’s continue doing these studies! Maybe a monthly live one? What I got from this is that we have to trust everything that God allows - even those difficult situations, hurt and pain - with or without reasons we don’t understand.
yes, every month! we read a chapter in the Bible together and do the SOAP method together and share what we're observing and applying, it's a really great hour spent together.
I learned that i need to grow in mine and dad's relationship,and that will help me with my future husband Thank you so mush for SOAP technique❤ Peaceeee ✌🏻🕊
Good study thank you. Isn't it amazing how no matter how many times the Bible is read, there is always something good and new. Queen Vashti set her boundaries, displayed moral attitude. An expression of her feelings about exposure of her beauty to all these men, she would not, upon her own husband,s request. How brave of her. Wearing the crown of queen, was of no comparative significance to compromise her virtue. Now, what a lesson for beautiful women, refusing to be manipulated, controlled, exploited, used. Her husband had no clue, but it was as you said, God's decision. I think the SOAP format is a good suggestion. Thanks very much.
Loving the Bible study series Melody. For me too I wondered why Queen Vashti said no. I like how you mentioned the hardening of her heart. It worked in God's Favor for Queen Esther.
This was amazing thank you. Im immediately a subscriber now. You are a blessing and I appreciate you sharing your light. I feel like my relationship with God is so intimate and for you to let us see your relationship with Him means so much to me. Thank you for helping me develop my relationship with God.
Had to come check out your SOAP method!! As a nurse, we often use the SOAP method to chart on patients....different words however!! Fun! Love it! Good study
Thank you for the SOAP method sheet , i have been trying to start using it and couldn’t understand quite how , thankfully your video popped up on my home page . You are a great inspiration, i am thankful for you sharing Gods word with us ❤
I really enjoyed your study. I wasnt able to get Notion because it only will work with a 64 bit OS but I did find another program called Loop by Microsoft that is free and looks and works the same way. Thank you so much for leading this study and being a source for us to be in God's word .
Awesome! I would love for you to continue these Bible studies. What I got from this Bible study was that you never know what God has in store. What may seem bad may be a set up for a miracle which is seen later in this book❤
I have always been a "Christian" but never really been a Christian. If someone asks, I say that I am, but I seriously do not know anything and have just went with it. I am really trying to get better and dig into the bible, but its hard to understand and it struggle finding the commitment. This helped me greatly, being able to follow along with what you were saying and being able to add you notes and mine. I like doing this with someone so I am not alone and feeling like what I am thinking or doing is incorrect. Please keep up with these videos, I think this is going to change me life.
Same...something I have been struggling with is reading and understanding the Word. I'm a firm believer of the KJV and if you've ever read it unsimplified, it's really hard to understand. As well as all the random names in the Bible...It gets overwhelming easily...
YES! This video was so helpful and I would love to see more videos like this. This first chapter helped me to see that God even though things may be happening in my life right now that I don't understand I know God has a plan for it down the line and I just need to be patient and trust his process.
I’m currently in college, i have been worrying about my classes and other things. Today I learned that God is in control there’s no need for me to worry, instead i pray about it to God and let him take control. I learned that sometimes when things don’t go as planned God has a better plan, things happens according to his will. The story is not yet over so i should rest in his sovereignty.
I've been using the S.O.A.P. method since last year, and it's really helpful. The thing(s) that I pulled from this Bible Study of Ester to me, is like the saying, "What another woman won't do, another one will". I pulled more things from it, at the same time, it'll take an essay to say it all. LOL! Thank you so much, Mel for this. God bless!
While reading verse 12 it made me think. Her reasons weren’t good enough to the king…. At the same time we make up reasons all the time that arent good enough. And yet, look how faithful our God is…. PRAISE THE LORD🙌🏽🫶🏽🫶🏽
Hey Melody! bought the Mr. Pen highlighters you recommended and I absolutely love them! I’ve been using them for my Bible Study all day long. Something I took away from the 1st Chapter is Always say Yes to God!!Thank you for creating these videos so thoughtfully and intentionally, may the Lord bless and keep your beautiful little family forever 💖
I really believe God is in control of everything and especially things that happen in your life and We all Go threw trials and tribulations but in the end we get out of the lonely dark tunnel and God is with us
Something that stood out to me is that drinking can lead to harsh decisions. Also, as a purposeful woman I can get replaced if I’m not ready to consistently practice my duties and stand in my purpose.
Thank you! I'm trying to walk closer with god and this is helping. Verse 19~ is also the one that stood out a lot, trusting in his timing is some thing I struggle with so it was a great reminder.
What stood out to me was the title “Queen Vashti’s disposal” NIV version- God will never dispose you because he will use any and every aspect of your story for his will. Queen vashti being disposed led to Queen Esther’s arrival so it was not in vain!
This soap method was so helpful I tried it tonite with my teen children we started Acts and it brought so much more out Esther is so good also I have read that but I’m super excited to try it with this method I got the respect for the Queen because she had a certain standard that she wouldn’t entertain these men but also opened my eyes to the men and how they didn’t want this to spread to their women that they could say no thank you so much for sharing this method with us to gleen absolutely everything God is speaking to us
Yes, please 🙏🏽 continue to do these bible studies with us. I truly enjoyed it. I think it was interesting how in verse 20 that this decree was made and because of Queen Vashti disobedience, all woman would be held accountable and must uphold the decree, whereas, the women seemed to must have not been under a strict decree or rule, in order for the King to make it public and unanimous. Great job Melody and I look forward to Chapter 2 of Esther with you.
I just found your channel because I was looking for some way to start doing Bible studies and to really get into my word. I’ve read my word a lot at different times, but I haven’t had a real type of Bible study in a long time and have forgotten how to really Bible study and I’m so glad I found your channel and just subscribed to it and I really do hope that you are continuing to do these Bible studies. I would love to continue in the book of Esther with you and go through the Bible with your Bible studies. Thank you so much for this and I’m definitely going to be using notation and the soap method. I really like that.
Yesss! I loved this idea. I actually got the idea of using Notion from you, and I loved it! I actually watch your videos in the morning to set the tone for the day after I do Bible study in the mornings. This was a quick and simple Bible study that just keeps me still active at night with my faith before going to sleep. I have been following you for a few months, and you are truly an inspiration! Thank you so much!
Thanks a lot Melody After watching your vid and reading the comments, i referred to my Bible because what really stood out to me was the reasons for making the decree. “They were kind of preventing other ladies from being disrespectful to their husbands ”. And also, i noticed in the previous verses that Queen Vashti also threw another party for the women in the King's royal house. Now what I'm trying to understand here is, was it lawful for Queen Vashti to do that? Because what i know is, every verse in the Bible carries a message. And it doesn't matter if your husband is good or bad, you need to respect him. I believe Abigail who was married to Foolish Nabal would have handled the situation well instead of disrespecting him in public smh💔 😊
Hey sis, Thank you for the video i did not know i needed but am glad i viewed ,may the Lord Jesus Christ continue to sustain the works of your hand.For me the takeaway was definetly from verses 17,19 and 22 and i think i take things for granted most of the time but am so blessed to be able to afford school fees , and to have my job i don't know when i began to neglect the position God placed me in , but i can takeaway that God can easily assign your responsability to someone who is more obedient to the King's yes. #priviledgedtobecalledbytheking
I pulled that, our worldly emotions are so in control of us. We tend to believe that what we feel and do solely alone, is enough. But it’s not . God is really in control, if I as a person could grasp that concept of it. Life would be so much easier .
Thank u very much for this amazing video. I was really struggling to find a good a strong sturdy plan but with this video I believe I got an eye opener.Thank u soo much and God bless you🥰💝
I Gleaned from this chapter not to be boastful, 2 Cor 10:13 "let us not boast beyond measure, but within the measure of the limits Elohim assigned unto us." King Ahasuerus was definitely boasting out of measure. 180 days!😩I think that was a bit much. Maybe they didn't have anything better to do back in those days lol.
Just landed on this and !!!! love this notion app! I rarely leave comments but I had to pause and give you props for introducing this on your platform. it got me excited all over again to have a deeper and enriching study time with this template AND the SOAP method! God bless you sister Melody ❤
This book of the Bible is quite interesting, though I am still reading and have only completed the first chapter. This may or may not be a stretch for me to say but, it just feels like King Xerxes loved attention and praise. King Xerxes then gets upset and maybe even embarrassed when Vashti denied his command. Mind you, this was a command to essentially objectify her in public. This brings me back to the times we are currently living in, whereby women are still being objectified by men. I completely understand the need to respect our husbands but, from the perspective of single woman, I find this chapter to be a bit much. I am new to the Bible and just find this to be a bit sad how far back in history the oppression of women goes. I hope the story turns around for the better. Great video Melody! First time I've heard about the S.O.A.P method and will be trying it out.
Love this and much needed!! Please continue this Bible Study❤also was wondering if you could talk about the Esther Fast, that would be great! I read about it on Pinterest and would love a deeper dive into it.
thank you so much!! glad you enjoyed it sis! i'm not very familiar with the Esther fast but if you search for Morgan Tracy J here on youtube, you'll find her videos which are really helpful and in-depth about it!
What stood out to me is how when the king didn’t get his way he resorted to anger. The way he was living created openings that let the enemy control his thoughts which could have resulted in this outburst. God tells us to be sober minded and to not be captured by vanity and material things. These are what the king has so when he was denied he felt rejected and that made him angry. Sometimes when we don’t get our way we become angry because of our personal insecurities that we haven’t allowed God to help us heal.
hey sis! 🎉 Start studying the Bible with Notion today, sign up for free: ntn.so/melodyalisa03
and today's question is: what is your takeaway from Esther chapter 1?!
For me, like I mentioned in the video, it's from verse 19 and it's the reminder that God is truly in control, or everyone and everything. He is making a way even when we don't realize it! this fact and realization calms my heart because transparently speaking, lately i've been experiencing anxiety and i haven't been able to place the origin of it. this truth really helped me see that i can REST in God's sovereignty, for real for real. let us know what stood out to you in the comments below! ♥
I served at Glory Atlanta! I wish we could have connected and said hi. We got a lot of great feedback! Glad you enjoyed it and got the sweatshirt at the event store. I lead the welcome team and worked the door both days so not sure how I missed you?
Hy Melody we as Rapswithrhymes wanted to interview you about your career in Christ and your personal walk with God.Are you keen
Thank you for showing me the SOAP method. I’ve been using it in my journaling time lately. I use the one journal app to do my praying.
Ok I am so confused. I am trying to begin my study of the Bible. I saw your video and really like the Notion's idea. How do I get that template. I joined but can't find a Bible study template
Hey Melody! I love your wisdom and teachings of your lifestyle and walking with faith in the lord. I am a new subscriber, and was inspired to use notion and loved your notion set up. I was wondering if you could make a tutorial or provide us with a free template to set up our notion like yours?
Learning to study the Bible for myself as a christian has been the best decision I have made in my spiritual journey! My life has never been the same. It's amazing how a little quest for God opens up a whole new world of purpose to you! I also use the SOAP. Starting with a prayer always before opening the Bible has been a game-changer for me. God bless you so much Melody for this video 🤍
What do you mean by “SOAP”?
@@madaleinem8109 S for Scripture (that's the Bible verse), O for Observation (what you learned from the verse) A for Application (how you can apply it to your life and P for Prayer(pray to avoid the wrong or for grace to do the right learned from the scripture)
@@roselinededua aww thanks you so much!.🫶🏽
@@madaleinem8109 you’re welcome 🤍
Agree with you
Can we make this a series? I love this. It makes me feel like I truly have a friend Bible studying with me. 😭 friends are hard to come by nowadays.
I can be your’a from Portugal 🇵🇹 ❤, bt we can speak 🗣️ everyday if you want to
Especially friends who would like to engage in the Word with you. I've been dedicated to finding my circle but it's definitely hard.
Yes I need sisters to study and encourage with!
It stood out how wealthy the king was to the point that he could celebrate so lavishly for so long. I note his pride and self-glorification. I also note how the King's advisors used their influential positions to further their own agendas and look out for their own interests - and how laws and policies can be set, not on God's principles or standards, but men's. This happens even today in national governance. I also not how fickle man's affection can be - one day they love you the next day they hate you and cast you away. My lesson is not to depend on or live for men, but rather for God. Please God above pleasing men.
Amen! ❤
Giirlll tha's so good!!!!
same!
Wow!! Amen!!!
The spiritual growth study Bible I’m using has a note on the first chapter. And it’s a note on self indulgence.
Verse 9 stood out to me "Queen Vashti also gave a feast for the women in the palace that belonged to king Ahasuerus." because I'm happy to see that she was able to include the women in the palace because back in those days women where just an after thought or seen as property so, she created a safe space for them and I love that for her!
What stood out to me is the Queen perhaps did not want to be on display and that instead of the King finding out why she did not want to attend, he chose to issue a decree (recommended by the eunuchs who could have been haters of the queen) that would apply to all women who disobey their husbands. Her refusal mixed in with his anger and embarrassment that his wife would say no to the King, would still be used by God to accomplish His purpose. Thank you "so much" for this study.
I pulled that rejections aren’t always bad. sometimes we have to experience set backs in order for God to set up his will. and that’s okay! also, I kind of looked in the perspective of Queen Vashti. I don’t really know the story of Esther, but this event with the king and Vashti opened the stage for Esther. sometimes when an opportunity is closed for us, we long for it. But that is dangerous because the position was needed for someone else, in this case, Esther. and someone reaping the benefits of your rejection isn’t an attack on you. It can be a blessing for so many people outside of yourself because it’s God’s perfect will. In conclusion, we should pray to be detached from circumstances that we may have placed for ourselves that was out of God’s will. So that we can find more peace when God’s hand switches things around. hope that makes sense.💘
You said it all 🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳
this is so real hey
Thank you for going through the bible with u! I recently watched a sermon by Sarah Jakes Roberts where she was discussing the first book of Esther. She said it is believed by many bible scholars that the king requested Vashti to come out in nothing but her crown, and she said no to protect her honor. What stands out to me from this word is how God will call us as women to assert our boundaries, even if it means losing a position. She gave up her queenship, but in the end, it was all part of God's plan. Can't wait to watch part 2!
You are so correct. If you look through hebrew translations like the Complete Jewish Bible it is read "10 On the seventh day, when the king was in high spirits from the wine, he ordered Mehuman, Bizta, Harvona, Bigta, Avagta, Zetar and Karkas, the seven officers who attended him, 11 to bring Queen Vashti before the king with the royal crown, in order to show the people and the officials her beauty, for she was indeed a good-looking woman. 12 But Queen Vashti refused to come at the order of the king, which he had sent through his officers. This enraged the king - his anger blazed inside him."
The Jews will even tell you she was ordered to wear nothing but the crown and they were drunk men ready for a good time.
-Ayla
This makes a lot more sense but even without the content of knowing the king requested she only wear her crown, i understood that her no means no and she shouldn’t have to obey the kings command at her expense.
Obey God before man 🙌🏽
Oh wow, thanks for this!!
I know this is the book of Esther so the focus is normally on how God set the stage for Esther and the great things that came after. Sometimes I wonder about Queen Vashti because that party was 180 days so what if she was tired, is she still not allowed to say no? As I am typing though, the thing that comes to mind is the word "approach." Instead of refusing the King which might have shocked and embarrassed him in front of his guest, she could have come and told him her reason, and the same grace he extended to Esther to hear her out later on in the book, maybe he would have extended it to Queen Vashti as well.
I love using the soap method during Bible Study! It honestly makes me feel like I've done a deep dive on a verse, it has been a complete game changer for me. I've started like last year, I'm still kinda at the beginning of my walk with Jesus and I can see an improvement with reading the Bible. However, it is a commitment and you will still have those days where you're sluggish and don't feel like praying and studying the Bible. Keep praying and keep going, you'll feel accomplished and just full of life. 💗
Hey Melody, first thank you for your content. A lot of verses stood out a totally of 8😭 but the 1:8 stood out the most and that verse basically said that the king let everyone drink their favorite wine with no restrictions. God showed me that a world without restrictions is a dangerous world, and with out God there is no restrictions so everyone is fair game but God pointed out to me Psalms 91:1 “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the most high will rest in the shadow of the Almighty” meaning to me that in a world with no restrictions as children of the most high we have to live with restrictions and boundaries for our safety. We have to abide in him and stay close to him because the world is dangerous. Thank you so much for this video, I look forward to doing more with you, and have encouraged me to do them again on my own💗💗
I’ve had Notion for years and I’ve never even imagined that I could use it for Bible study. I love this so much, thanks for walking through this with us. Please make more ❤
What I pulled from this first chapter was if the eunuchs that summoned Vashti were the same one’s that advised the king, maybe they held contempt for her and used that to their advantage against her in advising the king. All that to say, God can use anything for our favor!
Hey, I learned that things happen for a reason and that god is always in control no matter what. I really enjoyed this video and today was my first time using the SOAP methods. Thank you for this technique. May God bless you❤😊
Not sure if I will make sense but what I learned from the whole chapter especially from the verses that come after Queen Vashti refused the King’d summon is that when one is put in a position of power or of importance how he/she behaves is crucial…when you have people who look up to you as a Christian, they also look up to how we behave our character towards the things of God and the instructions of the Lord it can either bring them closer to God and inspire them to obey the Lord or just simply push the further away from the Lord and make them arrogant towards the instructions of the Lord…the Queen might have had a reason to refuse but she didn’t bother to explain herself but just ‘arrogantly’ refused to obey she could have humbly sent a message back to the King expelling why she couldn’t attend rather she just plainly refused without considering the King’s position even though she had valid reasons she could have communicated them. Bit sure if it makes sense
Loved this! Really made me get in depth, more than I would have if I were alone. Please keep doing Bible studies with us, Melody! I (we) need this.
loved this, hope you do more. My takeaway from this was that Yahweh uses every situation to save. That I should trust that he will do whats best.
What stood out to me was how Aharus reacted. V12 says his anger burned within him, then v13 he called his wise men and sought counsel. I think everyone can learn something from that. That is be angry but do not sin in practice and it also highlights the importance of community. He sought counsel, this stood out to me because Im a loner. I like being alone I like doing things on my own. It’s very hard to include my friends in my struggles or tell them what Im going through. I rarely even call my friends, and I know they werent besties with the kings but they were the people he sought counsel from, his community. It makes me think - how do I react in moments of anger? Who do I seek counsel from?
What stood out to me was verse 15 when he asked “According to the law..” which conveyed that when encountering hard situations ask God for guidance or someone you know with wisdom that can help you finna a solution. Also confront the wise (mostly God) before coming to a conclusion.
Hey Melody, thank you for sharing this video with us. For me the verses that stuck out to me were 19-20. I’ve been struggling lately with respecting my husband. God has been dealing with me on this and those verses spoke loud and clear to me.
Thank you for showing the SOAP method. I really like it and will continue to use it. Please continue with this series.
SI! Your ministry have been such a blessing to me. The other day, I said, "Lord, whetat's going on eithbmy life and your video on , "The Drlay is strategic" showed up. When I felt withjnnme to go through Esther. I read it but didn't really study. These videos are a year old, but here they are for me to go through on the book of Edther. The other day, I heard in my spirit,, "Haddasah". I looked the other up and recognized it is Esther. Sho but God. This is perfect timing, and I can not run from it. God wants me to study this. Do, Sis, thank you for this Bible study 🙏🏽❤
I am currently reading the book of Esther!! Thank you so much for this! please continue to do this studying this book of the Bible. I’ve been considering starting to take notes at church and for the Bible and will definitely start doing the SOAP method!! 💜
Yes please continue the Bible study
Thank you so much sis. Really loving the SOAP method. Verse 16 spoke to me in a sense that we are letters... known and read by everyone 2Corinth3:2 so my actions either point people to or away from Jesus
verse 19 stood greatly out to me because it shows me to trust in gods plan truly! Amen thank you thus video helped me so much !
Thank you for this! I was studying right with you. Verse 17 stood out to me. It’s speaks on her conduct and how her decision will impact other women. My prayer is that God guides my decision making. 🙏🏽 hope to see more videos like this. 😀
absolutely needed this , appreciation to God for using you to share this method and Bible study !!
Chapter 1 has opened my eyes on being a soft and submissive woman to the men God has placed in my life
I love this series so far and hope you do more books of the Bible in the future. Also I found a possible reasoning as to why Queen Vashit did not want to come to the kings banquet. My study Bible said that in other translations and readings of this story Xerxes was commanding Vashti to parade naked around his drunken party. The request was humiliating and so she refused. Between your video on this chapter and the footnotes in my Bible I've learned so much!
The scripture that stood out to me. Esther 1: 19 that Vashti is never again to enter the presence of King XerXes. Also let the king give her royal position to someone else who is better than she. This scripture stood out to me because God moved an obstacle out of Esther’s way. Which made me think about what God has for you is for you, no matter what. I want to thank you for creating this Bible Study video. You are a true blessing.
I LOVE THIS!!! I hope you do more on different books in the bible,this was my first time doing SOAP i have done it before but i was really young and didnt really put my all into it but when i did it with you OMG! i was so happy for my self i like the verse 12 where she refused to the kings order,the application for mine was its okay to say no to people with out a reason behind it. NO is a full sentence i have always been a people pleaser i like making people happy but i have said yes to people and have done things that made me uncomfortable an regret saying yes so i learned that its okay on saying no to people i know we are learning about esther but i wanna have queen vashti confidence on saying no to people. btw thank you alot for making this video you are most definitely doing gods work and helping people please do more videos of the other books in the bible!!!
Thank You Lord, His timing is perfect, this was exactly what I needed. Thank you Melody, please do more Bible study content that feels interactive, sending love and blessings from South Africa 😊❤
Wow. I really loved how you went through all the steps of the SOAP method. Please continue to do more Bible study with us. Also, thank you for informing us about the notion app. I look forward to not only using it for Bible study but for other tasks/goals as well.
What I learned from Esther Chapter 1 is that. Vasthi is an example to all women like us to learn how to say "NO" even though people may hate us for saying that word and how firmly we say it. We rather have friends who delight in the word NO than friends who will be angry when we say NO to them.
I just started watching you and I really love your videos so much.
Pls do this again! It was so helpful! ... I have to think on what I just read but its funny GOD sure has been pulling me toward Esther so sitting with GOD on this and then I can get back to u with more feedback
In this chapter, it really helped me realize that God is using me for a big purpose, and although I may not picture it myself or understand his ways, I can always trust him.
Although I’m not a (sis)! Lol I’m really interested in learning to study the Bible. Your tips were the best I’ve seen! Thx God bless you
For this chapter I more so got, communication with your spouse. I'm not saying the king was justified and as mentioned we truly don't know why the queen refused the king, but i feel like even if she was justified why not still go and like maybe try to talk to him and tell him how you feel and if he isn't respecting it then leave for protection of peace if that makes sense but I also liked your take away from this chapter and i see it both ways! I also love this method and can see myself REALLY learning a lot more using this method!!
Thank you so much for sharing- definitely going to try the method and App to help strengthen my relationship with God.
Keep them coming! Thanks for showing me a different way to study the Bible
Thank you for this breakdown. I love the Notion template and I am looking forward to using it as I study the Bible more!
It might seem so simple, but just a "NO" set my good sis freeee. And that's on BOUNDARIES! That's one of the things I took from this chapter and that stuck out for me in the place I am in my life right now. I was struggling to read today and randomly came across your page looking for a push and I'm thankful for this video, it helped me press through today.
I've been struggling with bible study in my life, like how to study the bible, what book to study, how can what I'm studying impact in my life. I literally just finished asking for for help, then I came across this video. Thank God for using you.. Please I'd love for you to continue with the series. God bless you
It's always needed to know that God is always in control, things happen for a reason. Amen
Melody, you're a blessing sis. Thanks for your obedience. God has been taking me through a journey of knowing who I am in him, what my role firstly is as a daughter of the King. This highlighted so much to me, and I'm even more confident in who He is and in my office of being a daughter. God fights for and fiercely loves His children. If he did it for Esther, He'll make a way for us! I'll be back, be blessed 🥰.
I loved studying with you, what stood out for me was that as children of God we are draped in our royal garments for the world to see and our conduct is so important that in all we do we need to honour God in our behaviour towards others so the world can see His beauty in us.
Thank you so much for this new learning style! Verse 5 stood out to me it’s basically a piggy back for give thanks to everyone! Love your neighbor as you love yourself. Don’t be selfish and give. Reminding me of tithing in a sense! Does anyone agree? Everyone be blessed!💗👸🏽
I agree with you, amen! pray you have a great night!
180 days is 1/7 of 3 1/2 years, which is “half a time” it makes me think of the sabbath, resting and thanksgiving, of revelation and also the parable of the bridesmaids with the lamp oil in Luke- we know not the hour but we need to be prepared when called.. and if we’re not prepared we won’t be chosen
This was good! Let’s continue doing these studies! Maybe a monthly live one? What I got from this is that we have to trust everything that God allows - even those difficult situations, hurt and pain - with or without reasons we don’t understand.
Yes do bible studies!!! Do you do live/zoom Bible studies in your memberships?
yes, every month! we read a chapter in the Bible together and do the SOAP method together and share what we're observing and applying, it's a really great hour spent together.
I learned that i need to grow in mine and dad's relationship,and that will help me with my future husband
Thank you so mush for SOAP technique❤
Peaceeee ✌🏻🕊
Good study thank you. Isn't it amazing how no matter how many times the Bible is read, there is always something good and new. Queen Vashti set her boundaries, displayed moral attitude. An expression of her feelings about exposure of her beauty to all these men, she would not, upon her own husband,s request. How brave of her. Wearing the crown of queen, was of no comparative significance to compromise her virtue. Now, what a lesson for beautiful women, refusing to be manipulated, controlled, exploited, used. Her husband had no clue, but it was as you said, God's decision. I think the SOAP format is a good suggestion. Thanks very much.
Loving the Bible study series Melody. For me too I wondered why Queen Vashti said no. I like how you mentioned the hardening of her heart. It worked in God's Favor for Queen Esther.
This was amazing thank you. Im immediately a subscriber now. You are a blessing and I appreciate you sharing your light. I feel like my relationship with God is so intimate and for you to let us see your relationship with Him means so much to me. Thank you for helping me develop my relationship with God.
Had to come check out your SOAP method!! As a nurse, we often use the SOAP method to chart on patients....different words however!! Fun! Love it! Good study
Thank you for the SOAP method sheet , i have been trying to start using it and couldn’t understand quite how , thankfully your video popped up on my home page . You are a great inspiration, i am thankful for you sharing Gods word with us ❤
I really enjoyed your study. I wasnt able to get Notion because it only will work with a 64 bit OS but I did find another program called Loop by Microsoft that is free and looks and works the same way. Thank you so much for leading this study and being a source for us to be in God's word .
Awesome! I would love for you to continue these Bible studies. What I got from this Bible study was that you never know what God has in store. What may seem bad may be a set up for a miracle which is seen later in this book❤
Thank you. This is comforting ❤
I have always been a "Christian" but never really been a Christian. If someone asks, I say that I am, but I seriously do not know anything and have just went with it. I am really trying to get better and dig into the bible, but its hard to understand and it struggle finding the commitment. This helped me greatly, being able to follow along with what you were saying and being able to add you notes and mine. I like doing this with someone so I am not alone and feeling like what I am thinking or doing is incorrect. Please keep up with these videos, I think this is going to change me life.
Same...something I have been struggling with is reading and understanding the Word. I'm a firm believer of the KJV and if you've ever read it unsimplified, it's really hard to understand. As well as all the random names in the Bible...It gets overwhelming easily...
YES! This video was so helpful and I would love to see more videos like this.
This first chapter helped me to see that God even though things may be happening in my life right now that I don't understand I know God has a plan for it down the line and I just need to be patient and trust his process.
I’m currently in college, i have been worrying about my classes and other things. Today I learned that God is in control there’s no need for me to worry, instead i pray about it to God and let him take control. I learned that sometimes when things don’t go as planned God has a better plan, things happens according to his will. The story is not yet over so i should rest in his sovereignty.
Hey Melody new subscriber here!! Thank you for the motion suggestion I just downloaded it.
Thank you for them words. I'm new to learning about God so this is very beneficial to me!
Thanks for studying the Bible with us
Wow God uses everything even a womans no I like that new perspective from that verse .
Can u show us a step by step on how you added everything bible to notion?
Something about you videos calms my spirit😢😢😢I love you for this....
God was really saying in my heart that sometimes he has to get rid of someone to make way for his plan! 🙏💕
I've been using the S.O.A.P. method since last year, and it's really helpful. The thing(s) that I pulled from this Bible Study of Ester to me, is like the saying, "What another woman won't do, another one will". I pulled more things from it, at the same time, it'll take an essay to say it all. LOL! Thank you so much, Mel for this. God bless!
While reading verse 12 it made me think. Her reasons weren’t good enough to the king…. At the same time we make up reasons all the time that arent good enough. And yet, look how faithful our God is…. PRAISE THE LORD🙌🏽🫶🏽🫶🏽
Hey Melody! bought the Mr. Pen highlighters you recommended and I absolutely love them! I’ve been using them for my Bible Study all day long.
Something I took away from the 1st Chapter is Always say Yes to God!!Thank you for creating these videos so thoughtfully and intentionally, may the Lord bless and keep your beautiful little family forever 💖
sooo glad you are loving your highlighters!! and AMEN to your takeaway!!
Thank you so much. I am starting to get back in the word. I loved how you showed your love of the word and the tools you used. Thank you!
you're so welcome, sis! thank you for being here. love that you are getting back into the Word 👏🏽♥️
I wish I had this tool in seminary! Cant wait to use it in my Christian journey
God is always in control 😊
Please share your template!! I’m brand new to reading and deciphering the Word of God. This template is the cleanest one ever!
I really believe God is in control of everything and especially things that happen in your life and We all Go threw trials and tribulations but in the end we get out of the lonely dark tunnel and God is with us
I loved this! Please keep doing "Bible study with Me". I'm new at trying to learn the Bible more, but this helped me 1000% thank you!
Thanks so much for sharing this. I just learned about the SOAP method and you really made it clear. ❤❤❤
Something that stood out to me is that drinking can lead to harsh decisions. Also, as a purposeful woman I can get replaced if I’m not ready to consistently practice my duties and stand in my purpose.
Thank you! I'm trying to walk closer with god and this is helping.
Verse 19~ is also the one that stood out a lot, trusting in his timing is some thing I struggle with so it was a great reminder.
What stood out to me was the title “Queen Vashti’s disposal” NIV version- God will never dispose you because he will use any and every aspect of your story for his will. Queen vashti being disposed led to Queen Esther’s arrival so it was not in vain!
This soap method was so helpful I tried it tonite with my teen children we started Acts and it brought so much more out Esther is so good also I have read that but I’m super excited to try it with this method I got the respect for the Queen because she had a certain standard that she wouldn’t entertain these men but also opened my eyes to the men and how they didn’t want this to spread to their women that they could say no thank you so much for sharing this method with us to gleen absolutely everything God is speaking to us
Yes, please 🙏🏽 continue to do these bible studies with us. I truly enjoyed it. I think it was interesting how in verse 20 that this decree was made and because of Queen Vashti disobedience, all woman would be held accountable and must uphold the decree, whereas, the women seemed to must have not been under a strict decree or rule, in order for the King to make it public and unanimous. Great job Melody and I look forward to Chapter 2 of Esther with you.
I just found your channel because I was looking for some way to start doing Bible studies and to really get into my word. I’ve read my word a lot at different times, but I haven’t had a real type of Bible study in a long time and have forgotten how to really Bible study and I’m so glad I found your channel and just subscribed to it and I really do hope that you are continuing to do these Bible studies. I would love to continue in the book of Esther with you and go through the Bible with your Bible studies. Thank you so much for this and I’m definitely going to be using notation and the soap method. I really like that.
Please continue I really enjoyed it
will do!! so glad you enjoyed!
thank you for all your videos you are a pure blessing to us ❤
such a sweet comment,thank you so much!
EXACTLY WHAT I NEEDED TONIGHT !!!
Yesss! I loved this idea. I actually got the idea of using Notion from you, and I loved it! I actually watch your videos in the morning to set the tone for the day after I do Bible study in the mornings. This was a quick and simple Bible study that just keeps me still active at night with my faith before going to sleep. I have been following you for a few months, and you are truly an inspiration! Thank you so much!
Thanks a lot Melody
After watching your vid and reading the comments, i referred to my Bible because what really stood out to me was the reasons for making the decree. “They were kind of preventing other ladies from being disrespectful to their husbands ”.
And also, i noticed in the previous verses that Queen Vashti also threw another party for the women in the King's royal house. Now what I'm trying to understand here is, was it lawful for Queen Vashti to do that?
Because what i know is, every verse in the Bible carries a message. And it doesn't matter if your husband is good or bad, you need to respect him. I believe Abigail who was married to Foolish Nabal would have handled the situation well instead of disrespecting him in public smh💔
😊
Hey sis,
Thank you for the video i did not know i needed but am glad i viewed ,may the Lord Jesus Christ continue to sustain the works of your hand.For me the takeaway was definetly from verses 17,19 and 22 and i think i take things for granted most of the time but am so blessed to be able to afford school fees , and to have my job i don't know when i began to neglect the position God placed me in , but i can takeaway that God can easily assign your responsability to someone who is more obedient to the King's yes.
#priviledgedtobecalledbytheking
You just earned yourself a new subscriber, sis; God bless! And I love the notion template, I've been looking for something like this like forever!
I pulled that, our worldly emotions are so in control of us. We tend to believe that what we feel and do solely alone, is enough. But it’s not . God is really in control, if I as a person could grasp that concept of it. Life would be so much easier .
Thank u very much for this amazing video. I was really struggling to find a good a strong sturdy plan but with this video I believe I got an eye opener.Thank u soo much and God bless you🥰💝
i love this!! i was trying to find a way to incorporate notion into my bible study
I Gleaned from this chapter not to be boastful, 2 Cor 10:13 "let us not boast beyond measure, but within the measure of the limits Elohim assigned unto us." King Ahasuerus was definitely boasting out of measure. 180 days!😩I think that was a bit much. Maybe they didn't have anything better to do back in those days lol.
I use u as background noise while I study mine I also love soap method also ..
This piece of text in the Bible has helped me in so many ways.
Thank you for this! Please keep the Bible studies coming! I need this at least once a week!!
Thank you Sooo much, I never knew about Notion, loving S.O.A.P too. Looking forward to studying the book of Esther with you. God Bless you Melody😊
Just landed on this and !!!! love this notion app! I rarely leave comments but I had to pause and give you props for introducing this on your platform. it got me excited all over again to have a deeper and enriching study time with this template AND the SOAP method! God bless you sister Melody ❤
This book of the Bible is quite interesting, though I am still reading and have only completed the first chapter. This may or may not be a stretch for me to say but, it just feels like King Xerxes loved attention and praise. King Xerxes then gets upset and maybe even embarrassed when Vashti denied his command. Mind you, this was a command to essentially objectify her in public. This brings me back to the times we are currently living in, whereby women are still being objectified by men. I completely understand the need to respect our husbands but, from the perspective of single woman, I find this chapter to be a bit much. I am new to the Bible and just find this to be a bit sad how far back in history the oppression of women goes. I hope the story turns around for the better. Great video Melody! First time I've heard about the S.O.A.P method and will be trying it out.
Love this and much needed!! Please continue this Bible Study❤also was wondering if you could talk about the Esther Fast, that would be great! I read about it on Pinterest and would love a deeper dive into it.
thank you so much!! glad you enjoyed it sis! i'm not very familiar with the Esther fast but if you search for Morgan Tracy J here on youtube, you'll find her videos which are really helpful and in-depth about it!
What stood out to me is how when the king didn’t get his way he resorted to anger. The way he was living created openings that let the enemy control his thoughts which could have resulted in this outburst. God tells us to be sober minded and to not be captured by vanity and material things. These are what the king has so when he was denied he felt rejected and that made him angry. Sometimes when we don’t get our way we become angry because of our personal insecurities that we haven’t allowed God to help us heal.