The Victory

Some stories don’t just end with survival—they end with victory.

When we come to Esther 9, the day of reckoning had arrived. Haman’s original decree had called for the destruction of the Jews, and the date was fixed by law. But through Esther’s courage and Mordecai’s leadership, God provided a counter-decree that allowed His people to defend themselves. On the very day when their enemies thought they would be destroyed, the opposite happened: the Jews gained the upper hand and overcame those who hated them. This was more than just survival—it was a reversal orchestrated by God’s providence.

The victory of the Jews is remarkable not only for what they did but also for what they chose not to do. Though they were legally permitted to plunder their enemies, they refrained. Three times in Esther 9 the text emphasizes this restraint. Why? Because the battle was never about profit or greed. It was about preserving God’s people and glorifying His name. As Dr. Loritts has said, “When we fight, we fight not for self-interest but for the glory of God.” The Jews’ choice to leave the plunder untouched underscored that truth.

The conflict was fierce but brief. Across the empire, where enemies rose up, the Jews defended themselves and prevailed. God worked not through dazzling displays of fire from heaven or parting seas but through His people standing firm under the unique circumstances of Persian law. This is often how He works—using ordinary means, imperfect servants, and even hostile systems to accomplish His perfect will. The book of Esther famously never mentions God’s name, yet His fingerprints are visible on every page.

After the fighting, the story took a new turn. Sorrow gave way to celebration. What had begun in fear and fasting was now transformed into a festival of joy. The Jews established the Feast of Purim to remember their deliverance. They feasted together, shared food with friends, and gave gifts to the poor. This was more than a holiday; it was a sacred act of remembrance. They were saying to one another and to future generations: God was faithful. He delivered us when hope seemed lost. Don’t ever forget what He has done.

Purim became an annual reminder that the God of Israel never abandons His people. What Haman intended for destruction turned into a lasting testimony of God’s sovereignty. Mourning had become joy, weakness had become strength, and despair had become hope. Even today, Jewish communities around the world gather each spring to read the story of Esther, to remember that God can turn the darkest threats into reasons for celebration. For Christians, this festival also points us forward—to the ultimate deliverance we have in Jesus Christ. Just as Esther risked her life to intercede for her people, Jesus gave His life to save us. Through His death and resurrection, our greatest enemies—sin and death—were defeated once and for all.

The book closes with a brief but powerful description of Mordecai. Once marked for execution, he was now second in command to the king, honored and respected by his people. But notice what defined him: he “continued to pursue the good of his people and to speak for the well-being of all his descendants” (Esth. 10:3). His greatness was not in his title but in his faithfulness. Mordecai used his influence not for himself but for the blessing of others. In this, he foreshadows Christ—the true and greater Advocate who intercedes on behalf of His people before the throne of God.

Esther and Mordecai remind us that when God chooses to exalt someone, no power in the world can stop Him. Their story is a testimony that God uses ordinary people, placed in extraordinary circumstances, to accomplish His will. From beginning to end, Esther shows us that the real hero of the story is the God who works behind the scenes to protect His people and advance His purposes. And that same God has now acted decisively in Christ to secure our eternal victory.

As we reflect on this final section of Esther, we’re challenged with a question: Will we finish the task God places before us? Esther risked her life to speak up. Mordecai risked his position to stand firm. The Jews risked everything to defend themselves. But through it all, they trusted God to bring the victory. Theirs is not just a story of survival—it is a story of finishing well. For the church today, “finishing the task” means not only persevering in our personal battles but also taking the gospel to the ends of the earth. Time is short, and the call is urgent.

Here’s the challenge: What unfinished task has God placed before you? Is there a risk He is still asking you to take, a step of faith you’ve delayed, or a gospel conversation you’ve been putting off? This week, ask Him for the courage to finish what He has called you to do—and trust Him for the victory.

We’d love to continue reflecting on this together with you this Sunday at Union Avenue Baptist Church, 2181 Union Avenue, at 10:45 am, or online at unionavenue.org. Come join us as we celebrate the God who brings reversals, gives strength for the battle, and leads His people to finish the task He has given—ultimately pointing us to Jesus, our Deliverer and King.