How can we apply the principle of honoring others from Esther 6:9 today? Setting the Scene in Esther 6:9 “Then let the robe and the horse be entrusted to one of the king’s most noble princes, so that he may clothe the man whom the king desires to honor, lead him on the horse through the city square, and proclaim before him: ‘This is what is done for the man whom the king desires to honor!’ ” Haman imagined receiving this tribute, yet God arranged it for Mordecai. The passage shines a spotlight on what genuine honor looks like—public, unmistakable, and costly—while exposing pride that craves recognition for itself. Seeing Honor on Display • A valuable robe and royal horse: the king gave tangible, visible symbols of esteem. • A noble prince as escort: honor flows from the top down; authority validates worth. • A loud proclamation: honor is meant to be voiced, not merely felt. • God’s providence: He exalts the humble (James 4:10) and thwarts the proud (Proverbs 16:18). Timeless Principles We Can Live Out 1. Honor is intentional. It does not happen by accident; it is arranged. 2. Honor has a cost. The giver parts with time, resources, influence, or comfort. 3. Honor is public. Private appreciation matters, but vocal commendation magnifies God’s work in others. 4. Honor reflects God’s character. He “bestows favor and honor” (Psalm 84:11). When we honor people, we mirror His generosity. Practical Ways to Honor People Today • Speak commendation out loud. Share specific virtues or deeds in front of others—team meetings, family dinners, church gatherings. • Give tangible tokens. A thoughtful gift, a handwritten note, or covering someone’s expense communicates value. • Elevate someone’s platform. Recommend a co-worker for a project, invite a younger believer to teach, or highlight a servant-hearted volunteer during announcements. • Defend reputations. Refuse gossip; instead, “speak truth with his neighbor” (Ephesians 4:25). • Serve quietly before honoring loudly. Like the noble prince dressing Mordecai, be hands-on in meeting practical needs. • Practice Romans 12:10—“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another.” Out-honor others as friendly competition. Guardrails and Heart Checks • Motive audit: Am I honoring to glorify God or to gain favor? (Colossians 3:23-24) • Equity check: Do I only honor those who benefit me, or do I also “honor everyone” (1 Peter 2:17)? • Humility filter: Can I rejoice when someone else receives recognition I hoped for? (Philippians 2:3) • Consistency test: Do my private words match my public praise? Encouragement to Step Out Today Honor is love wearing working clothes. Ask the Lord whom He wants you to elevate this week; then follow the king’s example—robe them in sincere appreciation, lead them forward, and proclaim, “This is what is done for the one the King delights to honor.” |
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