Esther 8-10
"For Mordecai the Jew was second in rank to King Ahasuerus, and he was great among the Jews and popular with the multitude of his brothers, for he sought the welfare of his people and spoke peace to all his people." - Esther 10:3
Through the brave, wise acts of Esther and Mordecai, the Jewish people living in the Persian empire were able to defend themselves against their enemies and survive. Mordecai, for his loyalty to the king of Persia and because of his wisdom, was elevated to second in command under King Ahasuerus. In this position of influence, he helped and supported his fellow Jews. He sought their welfare and spoke shalom to them. He provides a great example for us on the kind of leaders God is looking for in the Church.
Here's some application: (1) as leaders, we are to orient ourselves to God first, doing what is right and just in a permanent, lasting sense, letting God handle the ultimate outcome; (2) we are to seek the welfare of our people, that is, our local church community, even as we justly administer for the greater community, the nation; and (3) as leaders, we are to speak shalom into situations, bringing peace, comfort, and relief to our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Father, thank you for the model of godly leadership in the Bible. I pray that you will raise up godly leaders in our churches today, who will seek the welfare of their local church communities and speak shalom into people's lives. Father, Isaiah 3 shows what happens when leadership breaks down, and we don't want that in your Church. Teach us how to be godly leaders, ones that you approve of. Thank you for your character of righteousness and justice. May we carry the fire today, by the power of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jeff Coleman