In Esther, chapter four, verse sixteen, Esther was willing to give her life to save her people. She would do what was right and leave the consequences with God: God will not honor those who remain silent to protect their place or position, but he will honor those who, for the sake of God and His Word, speak the truth in the face of danger. Mordecai and Esther were willing to die, if necessary, in their battle against a sinister plot of evil. They are examples of people of great faith and integrity who do not compromise their conscience or bend under the pressure of evil intimidation, even though it may cost them their lives.
In the verse before the theme, verse fifteen, Esther requests Mordecai to gather the people present in Shushan and pray, which was the main business, to which fasting was only a help. Neither eat nor drink three days in such a manner as you used to do. Abstain from all set meals, and all pleasant food, and, as much as possible, from all food, for that space of time, in token of humiliation for sin, and a sense of our unworthiness of God’s mercies. Esther tells Mordecai that she and her maidens will fast too: They were, doubtless, either of the Jewish nation or proselytes and pious persons, who, she knew, would sincerely join with her in these holy duties. Ester continues to say to Mordecai that she will intercede for her people, which is not according to the king’s law, but according to God’s law, and therefore whatever comes of it, I will venture, and not count my life dear to myself so I may serve God and his church. Although my danger is great and evident, considering the expressions of that law, the uncertainty of the king’s mind, and the severity he showed to my predecessor Vashti. Yet, rather than neglect my duty to God and his people, I will go to the king and cast myself cheerfully and firmly upon God’s providence for my safety and success. If they condemned me to lose my life, I cannot lose it for a better cause.