Esther: Silent but Sovereignনমুনা

Esther was rightly frightened by Mordecai’s instruction to go into the king’s presence and plead with him for the Jews. No-one was allowed to approach the king in his inner court without an invitation. Xerxes was not immune from assassination attempts (Esth. 2:21), so this was partly to protect his life. He would extend his gold scepter only to those he knew and welcomed a visit from. Anyone else entering his presence without being summoned was put to death (v. 11). Esther hadn’t been called into the king’s presence for thirty days (v. 11), so she was not confident that she would be received favorably by Xerxes. 

But Mordecai’s words in verses 13–14 encouraged her to exhibit faith without fear. He reminded Esther of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness. He had promised to deliver His people and He could be trusted to do that. Mordecai also challenged Esther to recognize God’s sovereignty in placing her in the unique position she was now in: as queen with the ear of the king. 

When Esther sent Mordecai her second reply in verse 16, her words revealed her faith. After considering Mordecai’s words, Esther was prepared to speak on behalf of the Jews, regardless of the consequences to her personally. Her hesitation was replaced by confidence and determination. Her fear gave way to faith and courage. Her concern shifted from that of her own safety to the survival of God’s people. Ultimately, Esther demonstrated an eternal perspective: ‘if I perish, I perish.’ She wasn’t afraid to die for her faith. 

It’s perhaps unlikely that we will die for our faith, but it may be that our reputations will suffer as we speak up for Jesus. It is likely that we will lose popularity and friends, maybe opportunities for job promotions, even the love and respect of family members as we demonstrate a courageous commitment to be God’s mouthpiece in our society. But an eternal perspective shifts our focus from these temporary discomforts to the reward that is assured to those who are faithful. 

The deliverance of the Jews wasn’t Esther’s responsibility – that was God’s job. But Esther did have a responsibility to be faithful, obedient, and available to be used by God in the situation He had placed her in. 

Only Esther was in a position to approach King Xerxes and speak on behalf of the Jews as they faced an unjust death sentence. She alone could intercede for them because she alone was both Persian royalty and a Jew. We have a far greater mediator. Only Jesus could intercede on our behalf to God the Father to save us from the just death sentence we faced because of our sin. He alone could sacrifice His life to save us because He alone was fully God and fully man.

Reflection

How is God calling you to be faithful and obedient in your current circumstances? Are you available to be used by Him?