Esther: Silent but Sovereignনমুনা

In these verses, the humble, godly leadership of Mordecai stands in stark contrast with the proud, ungodly leadership we saw earlier in Haman. 

Mordecai had been given the king’s signet ring two months earlier. He had been working closely with the king since the demise of Haman. But it was only after he had secured salvation for the Jews that he left the palace wearing his royal robes and crown (v. 15). It was as if he could only be comfortable in his new, exalted position once he knew that his people were safe. Like Esther, Mordecai’s humility remained intact despite his elevated status. 

Haman had reveled in his high position and used it to accomplish his own vengeful purposes. He had been given the king’s signet ring – the power to make decisions on his behalf. But he used that power to issue a death sentence against the people of God. He was dispassionate and merciless. His subsequent plan to kill Mordecai immediately on the pole he had built was born purely out of pride and malice. 

In contrast, Mordecai used his influence with the king for the good of God’s people. He wasn’t content to enjoy comfort and wealth while his fellow Jews remained under the threat of death. He used the power of the king’s signet ring to reverse Haman’s death sentence. He was compassionate and full of mercy. His actions were motivated by a desire to protect and honor the Jews. 

Haman’s leadership had brought fear and desperation to the Jews living in Persia. Mordecai’s leadership brought peace and rejoicing. Once Mordecai’s edict was made known, the city of Susa held a joyous celebration. Verse 16 tells us: ‘For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor.’ 

In the two months of Mordecai’s influence at the palace, the fate of the Jews had been completely reversed. God had placed both Esther and Mordecai in positions of influence so that His people would be delivered. In addition to that, verse 17 records that ‘many people of other nationalities became Jews because fear of the Jews had seized them’. God’s mercy wasn’t limited to the Jews; He used the reversal of Haman’s edict to attract people from other nations to Himself. 

Mordecai was a strong, godly leader. His priority was the honor of God’s name and the deliverance of God’s people. His motives were unselfish: he used his position to achieve God’s glory in delivering His people rather than his own exaltation. His attitude was humble: he shared in the sufferings of the Jews and identified with them in their distress. He trusted in God’s character: he believed that God was faithful and powerful to fulfill his promises to His people. 

Reflection

Consider the challenges that face church leaders today. Pray for strong, godly, faith-filled leaders who are passionate about God’s kingdom and willing to sacrifice for His glory. 

Consider where you might be in a position of influence, with either believers or unbelievers. How can you demonstrate a humble, godly attitude that is motivated by a desire to honor God’s people?