Trusting God's Plan When You Don't See Him: Lessons From the Book of EstherSample

Have you ever watched a movie or read a book with a subplot that left you wondering, "Why is that there?" Today’s reading is just that. And let me tell you, this subplot will have major consequences later on.

Esther’s cousin Mordecai is sitting outside the King’s gate. I can only guess he’s trying to catch a glimpse of Esther to see how she’s doing; after all, she’s like a daughter to him. As he sits there, he overhears two officers arguing about the king and plotting to kill him. This must have been a huge shock. What if they were also planning to kill Esther? Since he happened to be there to witness their conversation, he quickly informs Queen Esther, who in turn tells the king. She gives all the credit to Mordecai. After an investigation, the two conspirators are found guilty and hanged. Crisis averted!

Please remember this crucial part of the subplot: “All this was recorded in the book of the annals in the presence of the king” (Esther 2:23). In those days, it was customary for current events to be documented in the life of a king. Mordecai saved the king’s life from an assassination attempt; it was recorded in the annals, yet there is no mention of any reward given to him at that time. He did the right thing by warning Esther, perhaps out of concern for her safety as well. However, this is where this subplot ends… for now.

Have you ever done something good to help someone but received no recognition at all? How did you feel? The scripture never says that Mordecai campaigned to let everyone know he potentially saved the king. He remained humble in nature. He likely kept a low profile because of his Jewish heritage. Even when Esther became queen, she kept her nationality a secret:“... for she continued to follow Mordecai’s instructions as she had done when he was bringing her up.” (v. 20) I love how she demonstrates respect for him as her father figure, even when she’s in such a powerful position herself. We can learn a bit of humility from these two people.

Questions:

1. Have you ever done something good that went unnoticed? How did you react?

2. What do you think of Esther following Mordecai’s instructions as an adult? Did that show weakness or strength?

3.How can we apply the lessons of humility from Mordecai and Esther to our own lives?