Dayo Emmanuel writes on the Bible Study on the book of Esther by members of Journalists for Christ at the October 2024 fellowship. 

Journalists for Christ (JFC) held its October 2024 fellowship over the weekend, focusing on  lessons from the Book of Esther.

The meeting, which took place on Zoom, brought together members who reflected on themes such as strategic positioning, discernment, and communal efforts, as exemplified by Esther and Mordecai.

JFC’s Chaplain, Pastor David Alabi, reflected on the significance of seizing opportunities.

“Esther came from the background to the limelight because somebody took her position for granted,” he said, emphasizing how believers must be vigilant in their roles, making the most of every opportunity to better themselves and those around them.

Alabi also spoke about the importance of discretion, citing Esther’s initial decision to withhold her identity as a Jew. He highlighted that, as journalists, it is sometimes necessary to be discreet when gathering information.

“We must use our skills wisely, like Esther, who used her ability to gain favour with the king,” he continued, encouraging participants to revisit the story of Esther and apply its lessons to their personal and professional lives.

JFC’s President Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin commented on Esther’s obedience.

“Esther was obedient. She diligently followed the instruction given by Mordecai not to disclose her Jewish identity, and by the head of the eunuchs on what to do when she met the king. Another person might have wanted to do what pleases them, but she didn’t, and it was for her own good,” he remarked.

A security and safety expert, Pastor Timi Ajayi, discussed opportunities and communal efforts. highlighting Mordecai’s humility and ability to spot opportunities despite his lowly position as a security man, popularly called “maiguard” in Nigerian parlance.

“If Mordecai had not accepted the role of a security man, he wouldn’t have been positioned to know there would be a contest for the queen’s position,” he remarked.

Ajayi also reflected on Mordecai’s application of strategic thinking, or what is known in management as a SWOT analysis. “Mordecai persevered because he saw potential in Hadassah, later known as Esther, and he seized the opportunity to help his people.”

He stressed that Esther’s victory was not solely due to her beauty or wisdom, but also to the prayers and fasting of her people. “Esther sought help because she knew her ability alone couldn’t win the king’s favor or defeat the enemy,” Ajayi added, urging Christians to support one another in times of need.

Programmes Manager at the International Press Centre, Lagos, Sanmi Falobi,  commented on strategy and timing.

Falobi who built on Pastor Ajayi’s comments focusing on Esther’s strategic approach, commended her for being tactical in her interactions with the king, recognizing the importance of timing in securing the Jews’ safety. “Esther knew her position was for something, and she was strategic in using the opportunity to save her people,” Falobi noted.

He also discussed Esther’s culinary skills, noting how she used what she had—a good meal—to create an atmosphere where the king would be more receptive to her request. “This teaches the importance of using one’s abilities, even in small ways, to achieve larger goals,” Falobi stated.

Writer and book editor Olumide Akinola reflected on Esther’s rise to queenship.

“I’m delighted by what has been shared—that none of us is indispensable,” he said. “Esther was more beautiful, wiser, and understood how to relate with the king better than Vashti. The mutual respect between a king and queen is important. We also see the rise of Mordecai, who raised Esther like his own daughter.”

Akinola further highlighted Mordecai’s righteousness in saving the king from a plot, proving that integrity transcends personal gain.

News Editor of National Wire, Dayo Emmanuel, reflected on Mordecai’s strategic positioning at the king’s gate. Although it seemed like a lowly job, it placed Mordecai in the right position to gather critical information.

“We have to be available because our availability counts,” Emmanuel said. He emphasized that God places people in strategic positions for a reason, even when those positions seem insignificant. He also spoke about the importance of continuous spiritual growth, referencing Mordecai’s role in training Esther in the ways of God from a young age.

A media consultant, Vivian Akinyosoye, shared insights on discretion and mentorship. She compared Mordecai’s role as a gatekeeper to modern-day menial staff, such as cleaners and security personnel, who often have access to sensitive areas. Akinyosoye also emphasized the importance of mentorship in raising future leaders, drawing lessons from Mordecai’s careful guidance of Esther.

Editor of Social Development News, Funmi Falobi, spoke about the impact of the Book of Esther on women and society.

“The story of Esther highlights the role of women in the family, society, and leadership. Esther used her position to save the Jews,” she said, stressing that both men and women must strive for leadership positions to influence decisions for the kingdom of God.

The October fellowship of Journalists for Christ provided participants with deep insights into the strategic wisdom of Esther and Mordecai, emphasizing lessons on discretion, strategic positioning, and the role of mentorship in shaping future leaders.

Participants left the meeting with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired to apply these biblical lessons to their lives and work.