Monday, March 31 – Esther 3, 4 – Additional Reading, Prophets and Kings, Chapter 49, “In the Days of Queen Esther”

1. What did the king’s servants seek to discover when they accused Mordecai? Esther 3:4

2. What does the Persian word “Pur” mean? Esther 3:7

3. What did Haman accuse the Jews of? Esther 3:8

4. What did Esther request and do when she decided to go before the king? Esther 4:15-16

It is interesting to read the Bible in chronological order. The Book of Esther, probably written by Ezra, narrates an important event that took place years after the exiles returned to Jerusalem. However, the story focuses on the Jews who remained in exile.

Susa, along with Babylon, was a capital of the Persian Empire. It was in Mesopotamia, in what is now Iran. The prophet Daniel had a vision in Susa by the Ulai River (Daniel 8:2). A significant Jewish population lived in Susa and the surrounding areas.

“Under the favor shown them by Cyrus, nearly fifty thousand of the children of the captivity had taken advantage of the decree permitting their return. These, however, in comparison with the hundreds of thousands scattered throughout the provinces of Medo-Persia, were but a mere remnant. The great majority of the Israelites had chosen to remain in the land of their exile rather than undergo the hardships of the return journey and the re-establishment of their desolated cities and homes.” (PK 597)

Mordecai, Esther’s cousin, raised her as his daughter. Although called a Jew for his faith, he was from the tribe of Benjamin and served as a government official.

Here are some key reflections from this fascinating story:

Though respectful of authority and royal protocols, Mordecai refused to bow to Haman as if he were a deity. He chose the latter when faced with the choice of obeying the king or God. As God’s people, we are called to obey the laws of the land, but when these laws conflict with God’s commands, we must follow His will first. “We ought to obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29)

There is more to this story than meets the eye. Beyond Haman’s anger toward Mordecai, this reflects Satan’s rage against God and His people. Haman was not satisfied with destroying Mordecai alone; he sought to annihilate the entire Jewish nation. Just as in those days, the enemy today is enraged against God’s people and makes war against those who keep His commandments and have the testimony of Jesus (Revelation 12:17).

Haman cast Pur, meaning “lot” in Persian, to determine the best day for his attack. However, God orchestrated events so that there would be months before the decree was carried out, allowing time for deliverance.

Mordecai’s sense of responsibility extended beyond himself and his family. He mourned profoundly and warned his fellow Jews about the king’s decree and the danger they faced. In the same way, we should be concerned about the salvation of those around us. If they do not accept Jesus as their Savior, they will suffer eternal consequences for their sins.

Mordecai’s message to Esther reveals his faith in God’s deliverance. He also recognized God’s providence in placing Esther in the royal court.

Esther courageously embraced God’s purpose for her life. Before approaching the king, she called for fasting and prayer, ensuring that her actions aligned with God’s will.

This story remains relevant for God’s people throughout history, especially in these last days. The great controversy continues. Beyond human affairs and political schemes, a cosmic battle is unfolding. Satan persistently tries to hurt God by attacking His people.

“The decree that will finally go forth against the remnant people of God will be very similar to that issued by Ahasuerus against the Jews. Today the enemies of the true church see in the little company keeping the Sabbath commandment, a Mordecai at the gate. The reverence of God’s people for his law is a constant rebuke to those who have cast off the fear of the Lord and are trampling on his Sabbath. Satan will stir up indignation against the minority who refuse to accept popular customs and traditions. Satan will arouse indignation against the minority who refuse to accept popular customs and traditions.” (PK 605)

Let us trust in God and His purpose for our lives. May Mordecai’s obedience and sense of duty, along with Esther’s courage, inspire and guide us. May we allow God to lead us and be our refuge and strength in times of trouble.

May you have a very blessed day.