Queen's Advice
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The concept of "Queen's Advice" in the Bible is primarily illustrated through the narratives of influential queens who offered counsel and guidance, often impacting the course of events in biblical history. These queens, through their wisdom and discernment, played pivotal roles in the unfolding of God's plan.

Queen Esther

One of the most prominent examples of a queen providing crucial advice is Queen Esther. Esther, a Jewish woman who became queen of Persia, is celebrated for her bravery and wisdom in advising King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) to save her people from annihilation. Her account is recounted in the Book of Esther. When Mordecai, her cousin, informed her of Haman's plot to destroy the Jews, Esther initially hesitated but ultimately decided to intervene. She instructed Mordecai, "Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish" (Esther 4:16). Esther's advice to fast and pray was pivotal, demonstrating her reliance on divine guidance and her strategic approach to influencing the king.

Queen of Sheba

Another significant figure is the Queen of Sheba, who visited King Solomon to test his wisdom with hard questions. Her visit is detailed in 1 Kings 10 and 2 Chronicles 9. The Queen of Sheba's interaction with Solomon highlights the exchange of wisdom and the recognition of God's blessing upon Israel. She said to Solomon, "The report I heard in my own country about your achievements and your wisdom is true. But I did not believe these things until I came and saw with my own eyes. Indeed, not even half was told me; in wisdom and wealth you have far exceeded the report I heard" (1 Kings 10:6-7). Her acknowledgment of Solomon's wisdom and the prosperity of his kingdom served as an affirmation of God's favor and the importance of wise counsel.

Queen Jezebel

In contrast, Queen Jezebel represents the misuse of influence and advice. As the wife of King Ahab, Jezebel's counsel led Israel into idolatry and moral decay. Her account is found in 1 Kings and 2 Kings. Jezebel's advice to Ahab to seize Naboth's vineyard through deceit and murder (1 Kings 21) exemplifies the destructive power of ungodly counsel. Her influence over Ahab and her promotion of Baal worship brought severe consequences upon Israel, illustrating the dangers of advice that contradicts God's commandments.

Queen Athaliah

Queen Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, also provides an example of negative influence. Her reign as queen of Judah is marked by her ruthless attempt to exterminate the royal line of David, as recorded in 2 Kings 11 and 2 Chronicles 22-23. Athaliah's actions underscore the peril of ungodly leadership and the rejection of divine promises. Her downfall came through the courageous actions of Jehoiada the priest, who preserved the Davidic line by hiding Joash, the rightful heir.

Conclusion

The narratives of these queens demonstrate the profound impact of a queen's advice, whether for good or ill. Their accounts serve as a testament to the power of influence and the importance of seeking wisdom aligned with God's will. Through the examples of Esther and the Queen of Sheba, we see the blessings of godly counsel, while Jezebel and Athaliah remind us of the consequences of straying from divine guidance.
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