Living in Increase (Part 6) - Increase in LeadershipSample

Leaders are Real

The story of Esther is one of my favorites. It is filled with drama, murder plots, and redemption. Read the whole chapter to better understand her tale’s significance!

Esther is queen at the time (Esther 2:17). The king promotes a man named Haman and sets him above all other officials (Esther 3:1). Haman seeks to destroy all Jews to punish Mordecai, Esther’s cousin, for not bowing down to him (Esther 3:6). This is an example of a bad leader!

Mordecai encourages Esther to speak to the king on behalf of the Jews. Esther requests an audience with the king despite it being illegal and potentially leading to her death (Esther 4:16).

Leaders are authentic. Mordecai is being honest in his encouragement to Esther. I’m sure it’s not what Esther wants to hear, but he knows it needs to be said. Mordecai presents it in a way that is brutally honest but also encouraging. He tells her she should do this, but God will find someone else if not. I love when he says, “Perhaps you were brought here for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14).

Most likely, none of us are in a position of royalty. However, God did appoint us for a purpose! Surround yourself with mentors who will be honest and speak wisdom in your life. Don’t be afraid to be honest with others, but remember to talk about the truth in love. As leaders, sometimes we must love people by having hard conversations with them!

Carley Sheppard

Action Step: Send an encouraging message to a friend today.