(10:3) Mordecai's Reputation - Mordecai enjoyed a good reputation among the Jews because he was still their friend when he rose to a place of power. Corruption and abuse of authority often characterize those in power. But power used to lift the fallen and ease the burden of the oppressed is power used well. People placed by God in positions of power or political influence must not turn their backs on those in need. They must work for the good of others.

(10:3)  Mordecai's Leadership - No certain archaeological records of Mordecai's being second-in-command have been discovered, but during this time there is a strange gap in ancient Persian records. The records indicate that another man held that position in 465 BC, about seven years after Mordecai was first appointed. One tablet has been discovered listing someone named Mardukaya as an official in the early years of Ahasuerus's reign; some believe this was Mordecai.

(10:3) Having Faith in the Lord - In the book of Esther, we clearly see God at work in the lives of individuals and in the affairs of a nation. Even when it looks as if the world is in the hands of evil people, God is still in control, protecting those who are his. Although we may not understand everything happening around us, we must trust in God's protection and retain our integrity by doing what we know is right. Esther, who risked her life by appearing before the king, became a hero. Mordecai, who was effectively condemned to death, rose to become the second-highest-ranking official in the empire. No matter how hopeless our condition or how much we would like to give up, we need not despair.

God is in control of our world.