Day 1: The Prerequisites Required to Expose the Enemy’s Plans

The book of Esther tells the story of the near extinction of the Jews. At the time, the Israelites were living under the control of foreign power. Although they were in a state of peace, they suddenly faced a wicked plot that threatened their existence. However, by God’s providence and design, this plot was exposed.

Typically, many studies and sermons about the book of Esther focus primarily on Queen Esther and her actions, but over the next several days, the Holy Spirit is leading us to examine the actions of all the key players in the book with a specific focus on Mordecai.

Mordecai was Esther’s cousin who raised her.

Mordecai was a Jew, from the tribe of Benjamin. His family had been exiled from Jerusalem to Babylon. We learn that he adopted his cousin Esther after her parents died and he raised her as his own daughter.

In the first few verses about Mordecai in chapter two, we learn that Mordecai worked in the king’s court and he had positioned himself at the king’s gate.

From these passages of scripture alone, we learn the prerequisites of one tasked to expose the enemy’s plan.

1. Mordecai was strategic and he was discreet. He told his cousin Esther not to tell anyone that she was a Jew. (verse 10)
2. Mordecai was positioned in an important place: the gate; a place where business was conducted and decisions were made. (verse 19)
3. Mordecai was loyal. He was at the gate in service to the king, so when the two eunuchs with him plotted to assassinate King Xerxes (NLT), Mordecai informed Queen Esther and the two eunuchs were killed. (verse 21)

This warrior was strategic. He was in position. He was discreet. And He was loyal.

When God positions us in an organization, corporation, church, or family, He does it with intention. He also expects us to be intentional in how we handle our positions and the way we serve those He assigns us to.

Reflect:

Are you strategic with your actions, prayer assignments, and the vision God has given you or your leaders?

Are you in position—the position of prayer and service? Do you work as unto the Lord?

Are you discreet in what you share and who you share it with?

Are you loyal, first to God and to the leaders and co-laborers in your organization/family?

Pray:

Father, in the name of Jesus, thank you for placing me in the location and position that I am in. Holy Spirit, help me to always have clean hands and a pure heart as I serve. Search my heart and test my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.

Lord, I pray for your forgiveness for areas that I’ve fallen short, and I pray for the repentance of your church and our country’s leaders. May all who are working against you repent. In Jesus’ name, amen.