Second In Command.

Mordecai the Jew was second only to King Ahasuerus. He was the highest-ranking Jew, and he was admired by his numerous relatives. He worked enthusiastically for the good of his people and was an advocate for the welfare of all his descendants. (Esther 10:3)

For you did not receive the spirit of slavery leading again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself bears witness to our spirit that we are God’s children. And if children, then heirs (namely, heirs of God and also fellow heirs with Christ) – if indeed we suffer with him so we may also be glorified with him. For I consider that our present sufferings cannot even be compared to the glory that will be revealed to us. (Romans 8:15-18)

The book of Esther has an interesting end. Its focus is not on the queen, but on the relationship between the king and Mordecai. Mordecai has taken Haman’s place as second in rank and authority, and we read of the good works Mordecai did for his people. The sufferings that he and Esther experienced resulted in promotion for themselves, and life for their fellow Jews.

We, too, are called to do good works. Our Commander and King has set the example through Jesus Christ: His sufferings brought about our redemption, and we are now equipped to do good works for the people of the world. We, as children of God, are promoted to the position of “heir of God”, and our lives are a reflection of His glory, grace, and compassion.

The book of Esther serves as a wake-up call to those who believe their life choices are made in a vacuum. Our personal decisions can affect nations. Had Esther chosen to not listen to Mordecai, and if Esther had not appealed to the king, the trail of Jewish history would have been drastically altered.

God has called you to take risks, to suffer, to stand and speak against unjust acts, to appeal to His power and authority on behalf of the masses. Have you chosen to stay comfortable and embrace anonymity when God has called you to public ministry as His royal heir? Are you living under obligation to His Spirit, or are you too busy loving the world?

The strength to stand as "second in command" is only found as we submit ourselves to the Spirit of God. “So then, brothers and sisters, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh (for if you live according to the flesh, you will die), but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are the sons of God.” (Romans 8:12-14) Brothers and sisters, let's stand strong.

The spirit of Haman still exists. The enemy of your soul has decreed your death, and his strategy is to cause you to ignore and avoid the rule of God your King. Your death would affect not only you, but also your family and community. So I encourage you, I urge you, to stand in faith and live a life of holiness by the power of the Holy Spirit. It is what confirms your status as an heir, and it is how you stand strong in the face of suffering. Seek the Lord, put on your royal attire, and live.