“And all the king’s servants who were at the king’s gate bowed down and paid homage to Haman, for the king had so commanded concerning him. But Mordecai did not bow down or pay homage.” – Esther 3:2
God’s people must never bend the knee in worship toward any person or object. Earlier in Israel’s exile, God had shown that His power was sufficient to protect any individuals (Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego) who obeyed the Lord rather than human rulers on this point. Years later, Mordecai refused to bow in homage to Haman, the king’s favorite official.
Mordecai’s disobedience was so infuriating to Haman that he set out to destroy all Jews everywhere. Was God’s power sufficient to stop that as well? Yes! In fact, in His perfect knowledge of all things past, present, and future, God had already made provision for His people. He’d already placed Esther on the throne of Persia, putting her in a position to intervene for His people. If she had enough faith and courage to do so…
The Lord had orchestrated everything from the replacement of the previous queen to the timing of the planned genocide. And Esther was faithful. With fasting and prayer, fear and trembling, Esther stepped forward and God used her to save His people and bring down Haman.
God’s knowledge of all things is perfect. His wisdom is perfect. His timing is perfect. His power is sufficient. His will and plan can’t be stopped. Not by hatred, not by governmental power, and not by mass murder. Believers simply need to hold firmly to the faith and to their integrity. We must never bow the knee, figuratively or literally, to people with earthly power. Always trust in God’s ability to care for His people and accomplish His will in His way on His schedule. #FollowJesus