What lessons on leadership can be drawn from Esther's actions in this chapter? Setting the Scene “ ‘In Susa the citadel the Jews have killed and destroyed five hundred men and the ten sons of Haman. What then have they done in the rest of the king’s provinces! Now what is your petition? It shall be granted you. And what further request do you have? It shall be fulfilled.’ ” (Esther 9:12) Lesson 1: Leverage God-Given Influence • Esther’s influence over the king is evident when he twice asks, “What is your petition? … What further request do you have?” • She has already saved her people (7:3–4), yet she recognizes there is still work to do (9:13). • Leadership doesn’t settle for partial victories; it continues until the God-honoring goal is complete. • Compare Joseph stewarding influence in Egypt (Genesis 41:38–41). Both serve pagan courts yet advance God’s purposes. Lesson 2: Courage to Ask for More • Esther risks appearing greedy, but kingdom concerns outweigh personal comfort. • Proverbs 28:1 says, “The righteous are as bold as a lion.” Esther embodies that boldness. • True leaders prayerfully assess the remaining need and ask boldly (James 4:2 “you do not have because you do not ask”). Lesson 3: Strategic Foresight • The initial decree (8:11) allowed only one day of defense. Esther foresees additional threats and requests another day in Susa (9:13). • She also seeks public exposure of Haman’s sons to deter future aggression. • Leadership looks beyond today’s crisis, planning for sustained safety and stability (Proverbs 22:3). Lesson 4: Righteous Authority Protects the Vulnerable • Esther uses royal authority not for revenge but for the defense of her people. • She mirrors God’s heart: “Vindicate the weak and fatherless” (Psalm 82:3). • When the powerful intervene for the powerless, God’s justice is displayed (Isaiah 1:17). Lesson 5: Humility Amid Success • Although the king highlights the Jews’ victory, Esther doesn’t celebrate herself; she stays focused on completing God’s deliverance. • Contrast with Nebuchadnezzar’s self-glory (Daniel 4:30); Esther’s restraint safeguards her from pride. • 1 Peter 5:6 underscores this posture: “Humble yourselves… that He may exalt you at the proper time.” Lesson 6: Dependence on Divine Timing • Esther waits until the king opens the door (“What is your petition?”) before speaking. • Her timing mirrors Ecclesiastes 3:7 “a time to be silent and a time to speak.” • Spiritual leaders watch for God-appointed moments rather than forcing outcomes. Putting It Into Practice 1. Identify spheres where God has granted influence—home, church, workplace. 2. Pray for courage to ask boldly when righteousness is at stake. 3. Plan beyond immediate needs; aim for long-term spiritual and practical safety. 4. Use authority to shield the vulnerable, reflecting God’s justice. 5. Guard the heart from pride, giving glory back to the Lord. 6. Wait for doors He opens, then step through with decisive faith. Esther’s actions in chapter 9 model leadership that is bold, strategic, protective, humble, and God-timed—qualities still essential for anyone entrusted with influence today. |
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