Being distressed and having compassion for others is not easy but it is the path we have to follow if we follow Christ (see Matthew 9 v36; Mark 7 v32-35; Luke 19 v41-44; John 11 v33-35).
Esther did not like to see her cousin so upset, it makes her uncomfortable and so she seeks to make him feel better (v4).
Sometimes the tears of others can make us feel uncomfortable, but it is not always right to try stop people’s tears. We must cry for the lost.
Esther is encouraged by Mordecai’s resolution to seek out what the cause of his distress is (v5). Mordecai explains the situation in detail (v7-8) and gives strong evidence to prove the danger.
Esther is asked to speak to the king (v8) and she expresses the great difficulty in this (v11). Mordecai’s response is strong and challenging (v13-14). Esther must have been so frightened and turns to seek the Lord and for other believers to join her in this (v15-17).
As believers we need to face up to the reality of hell and warn people of the great danger. In the work of helping those in spiritual danger, there is no hiding place for the believer, we all must be involved.