Esther Series – Part 9
Pastor Eric A. Green
In those days, while Mordecai was sitting at the king’s gate, Bigthan and Teresh, two of the king’s officials from those who guarded the door, became angry and sought to lay hands on King Ahasueras.But the plot became known to Mordecai and he told Queen Esther, and Esther informed the king in Mordecai’s name. Now when the plot was investigated and found to be so, they were both hanged on the gallows; and it was written in the Book of the Chronicles in the king’s presence.
Esther 2:21-23
In ancient times, the king’s gate was the venue where state financial business, property transactions, judicial actions, and other official government affairs were conducted – something akin to city hall. Mordecai was seated at the king’s gate, indicating he had reached a place of stature in the kingdom, and he probably functioned as one of the king’s officials. As such, he would be privy to information not widely known, making him the eyes and ears of the king and protector of his interest.
Esther, of course, was the queen, and she enjoyed a singular place in the kingdom. Mordecai and Esther used their positions wisely and shrewdly, because both understood their allegiance to the king as their number one priority. The greater reality is God placed them both where they were for the good of His kingdom, as well that of Media-Persia. In the same way, we have been placed where we are by God to pursue His interests, and where we affect more people for good than we know.
Do you have proximity to those who exercise authority in your life? How about your pastor, your employer, your supervisor, or city councilperson? As a Christian, we need to realize the opportunity to be close to one in authority is a gift from God with great benefits and heavy responsibilities. Are we the kind of servants our superiors desire to have close to us? Do we serve with distinction? Do we exercise discretion, and can we be trusted with delicate and confidential matters? Do we look out for others’ interests, or do we always consider our convenience first? Do we intercede for our leaders? Would your boss or pastor say he or she would love to have ten more people just like you? Would the “king” in your life call you a lifesaver like Mordecai and Esther?
Remember, you are where you are for a reason. Take some time to pray and examine your service in the position God has placed you. Be sure you are identified with God’s interests in others, because your service can literally save many and bring glory to God.
Esther 2:21-23
In ancient times, the king’s gate was the venue where state financial business, property transactions, judicial actions, and other official government affairs were conducted – something akin to city hall. Mordecai was seated at the king’s gate, indicating he had reached a place of stature in the kingdom, and he probably functioned as one of the king’s officials. As such, he would be privy to information not widely known, making him the eyes and ears of the king and protector of his interest.
Esther, of course, was the queen, and she enjoyed a singular place in the kingdom. Mordecai and Esther used their positions wisely and shrewdly, because both understood their allegiance to the king as their number one priority. The greater reality is God placed them both where they were for the good of His kingdom, as well that of Media-Persia. In the same way, we have been placed where we are by God to pursue His interests, and where we affect more people for good than we know.
Do you have proximity to those who exercise authority in your life? How about your pastor, your employer, your supervisor, or city councilperson? As a Christian, we need to realize the opportunity to be close to one in authority is a gift from God with great benefits and heavy responsibilities. Are we the kind of servants our superiors desire to have close to us? Do we serve with distinction? Do we exercise discretion, and can we be trusted with delicate and confidential matters? Do we look out for others’ interests, or do we always consider our convenience first? Do we intercede for our leaders? Would your boss or pastor say he or she would love to have ten more people just like you? Would the “king” in your life call you a lifesaver like Mordecai and Esther?
Remember, you are where you are for a reason. Take some time to pray and examine your service in the position God has placed you. Be sure you are identified with God’s interests in others, because your service can literally save many and bring glory to God.
Love and perfect peace,
Pastor Eric
