As the book of Esther comes to a close, I was expecting a rich, dramatic ending—perhaps another twist, a miracle, or a royal decree. Instead, the final chapter is brief, only three verses. The story narrows its focus to one man: Mordecai. Through him, I catch a glimpse into the heart of God.
The achievements of King Ahasuerus are not the final note of the story. Instead, Esther concludes by celebrating Mordecai—a Jewish exile elevated to the highest positions in the Persian government—and especially his devotion to the welfare of God’s people.
“For Mordecai the Jew was second only to King Ahasuerus… and one who sought the good of his people and one who spoke for the welfare of his whole nation.”
(Esther 10:3, NASB2020)
These closing words should be carefully considered and savored. They wrap the entire book in a theological truth that has been unfolding from the beginning.
Mordecai’s Devotion Reveals God’s Devotion to Israel
As you know, the book of Esther does not mention God’s name, not even once. Yet His presence saturates every moment of the story. And here, in the final verse, Scripture subtly reveals one of its core messages:
God’s devotion to Israel is expressed through the devotion of His servant, Mordecai.
Mordecai rises to prominence not for personal gain, but to intercede, protect, and promote the welfare of his people. His character echoes the character of the God who chose Israel, covenanted with Abraham, and promised never to abandon His people.
Mordecai’s faithfulness is not accidental—it is instrumental. Through him, God keeps His covenant promises. Through his leadership, God preserves His people from annihilation. Through his intercession, God displays His unchanging loyalty to the descendants of Abraham.
In other words:
Mordecai’s devotion is a human window into God’s covenant devotion.
And this is the theological heartbeat of Esther.
God’s Hidden Hand Is Still the Ruling Hand
Scholars note that the absence of God’s name in Esther does not diminish His presence—it intensifies it. The story invites us to see what Israel saw:
- A sequence of “coincidences”
- A sleepless king
- A forgotten act of kindness
- A risky appeal
- A perfectly timed reversal
Nothing in Esther is accidental. Everything is providential. As one study Bible puts it, the silence of God in Esther “actually serves to emphasize that God is working through every seemingly insignificant circumstance to protect His people and accomplish His purpose.”
Esther 10, then, is not merely about Mordecai’s promotion; it is about God bringing the story full circle. What began with the threat of Jewish extinction ends with a Jewish leader recording his legacy in the annals of Persia—proof that God’s promises did not fade in exile.
Israel’s Story Is Still in God’s Hands
The final tapestry of the book ties together three threads:
A preserved people: A nation doomed by decree is now established, protected, and flourishing.
A faithful covenant: God’s promises to Abraham are not hindered by kings, kingdoms, or exile.
A servant who reflects God’s heart: Mordecai becomes a symbol of God’s continued commitment to Israel—even far from the land and far from spiritual faithfulness.
This is crucial: the Jews in Esther are still in exile. They have not returned to the land as God had invited. And yet—God preserves them anyway. God’s covenant love does not depend on their perfect obedience. Instead, it rests on His perfect faithfulness. Mordecai’s leadership, therefore, is more than historical curiosity. It is a testimony: Even in the margins of empires, even when unseen, even when unacknowledged—God is devoted to His people.
A Quiet Ending With a Clear Message
Esther ends not with fireworks, but with a declaration of faithfulness:
- God keeps His promises.
- God protects His people.
- God works through His servants.
- God’s devotion does not waver—even in exile.
In a world where God often seems hidden, Esther 10 reminds us:
The unseen God is still the unfailing God.
And just as Mordecai sought the good of Israel, we can rest assured that the Lord Himself seeks the good of His people—still, always, and forever.
Reflection Questions
Where have you seen God’s hidden hand at work in your own life—guiding, protecting, or providing in ways you only recognized in hindsight?
Mordecai used his influence for the good of God’s people. What opportunities has God placed before you to seek the welfare of others, especially fellow believers?
Esther 10 shows God’s devotion to Israel even while they remained in exile. How does God’s unwavering covenant faithfulness encourage you when you feel spiritually distant or discouraged?
TheoFaith 