The Test of Success

The proof of the character of Mordecai in the book of Esther comes at the very end. He had to pass the test of success. And he did. No matter how great a man he became in earthly affairs, he changed not at all in the desires of his heart. First, foremost, and forever, Mordecai loved God's people and desired to see them blessed of the Lord and celebrating His goodness to them. Nothing changed his character. He was "steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord." He knew times of great abasement and times of great exaltation, but either way, he was a servant of the Most High God.
How does your character match up to this splendid example of a believer in both word and deed? Are you a man of love and responsibility? A man of caution and compassion? A man of faithful duty to civil authorities? A man of uncompromising conviction and steadfastness regardless of circumstances? A man of prayer, supplication, and humility? A man of exhortation and trust? A man of praise and rejoicing? A man of unchanging character even in the good times? The key is having your heart where Mordecai had his. He was given completely to loving the things God loves: his family, God's honor, justice, God's people, the people he served in his position in the world.
Mordecai received the honor of men--you and I may not. But the honor of being faithful to God is all you need. And I think that Mordecai's greatest achievement, perhaps the ultimate test of his character, was that he passed along his heart to his "daughter," Esther. If my children develop a godly character, a heart just like mine, what will they be like? Where will their treasures be?