Esther 3-4

“But Mordecai did not bow down or pay homage” (3:2).  Mordecai’s refusal to bow to Haman had terrible consequences, yet Mordecai refused to budge.  The theme of commands and obedience runs through Esther’s story.  Vashti’s refusal to obey the king cost her the throne, while Esther listened to both Mordecai and Hegai and won favor (2:10, 15). Mordecai ignored evil Haman, but he listened to Queen Esther “and did everything as Esther had ordered him” (4:17), just as Esther had followed his advice previously.  

“Then I will go to the king … and if I perish, I perish” (4:16). Listening to God-honoring people gives us wisdom to make good decisions, and the courage to stand firm.