Chapter Sixteen/She Acted Wisely, Bravely, and Selflessly

 She Acted Unselfishly for Jehovah and for His People

At last the king learned who Mordecai was-not only his loyal protector against assassination but also the adoptive father of Esther. Ahasuerus bestowed Haman's position as primed minister to Mordecai. Haman's house-including his immense fortune-the king gave to Esther who place Mordecai over it. - Esther 8:1, 2. 

Now that Esther and Mordecai were safe, could the queen relax? Only if she were selfish. At that moment, Haman's decree to kill all the Jews were making its way to every corner of the empire. Haman had cast lots, or Pur-evidently a form of spiritism-to determine the opportune time to carry out this vicious attack. (Esther (9:24-26) The day was yet months away, but it was fast approaching. Could disaster still be averted? 

Esther unselfishly risked her life again, appearing before the king once more without an official invitation. This time she wept for her people, pleading with her husband to revoke the terrible edict. But laws passed in the Persian monarch's name  could not be revoked. (Daniel 6:12, 15) So the king empowered Esther and Mordecai to enact a new law. A second proclamation was sent out, giving the Jews the right to defend themselves. Riders sped to every part of the empire, taking this good news to the Jews. Hope was kindled anew in many hearts. (Esther 8:3-16) We may imagine the Jews throughout that vast empire arming themselves and preparing for battle, which they could never have done without the new edict. More important, though, would "Jehovah of armies" be with his people? -1 SAMUEL 17:45. 

Next time: She Acted Unselfishly for Jehovah and for His People - Continue

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