What lessons on humility can we learn from Haman's example in Esther 7:9? Scripture Focus “Then Harbonah, one of the eunuchs attending the king, said, ‘Behold! There is the gallows that Haman prepared for Mordecai, the man who spoke up for the king’s good. It stands by Haman’s house, seventy-five feet high!’ ‘Hang him on it!’ ordered the king.” (Esther 7:9) Haman’s Pride, Haman’s Fall • Haman’s plan to exalt himself through Mordecai’s death literally turned back on him—his own gallows became his judgment. • The swiftness of the king’s command shows how quickly pride can be reversed when God exposes it (cf. Proverbs 16:18). • Haman’s power, influence, and wealth could not shield him from divine justice; pride offers no real security. Heart Lessons on Humility • Self-exaltation blinds us to impending danger. Humility keeps spiritual vision clear (Proverbs 11:2). • Harboring resentment (Esther 3:5) fuels pride. Forgiveness and meekness disarm the cycle of retaliation (Ephesians 4:31–32). • God remembers the meek—Mordecai’s earlier loyalty was honored in God’s timing, not Haman’s schedule (Esther 6:1–11). • Humility aligns us with God’s favor: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). • Pride always bears fruit—often swiftly, always surely. Humility bears fruit too: exaltation in God’s time (1 Peter 5:5-6). Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 18:12 — “Before destruction the heart of man is proud, but humility comes before honor.” • Luke 14:11 — “Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” • Micah 6:8 — “What does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” Living It Out Today • Examine motivations: ask whether each decision seeks God’s honor or personal elevation. • Celebrate others’ success; refuse the comparison trap that snared Haman. • Practice secrecy in good deeds (Matthew 6:1-4) to train the heart away from applause. • Receive correction gladly; pride despises rebuke, humility welcomes it (Proverbs 9:8-9). • Remember the cross—ultimate proof that God exalts those who humble themselves and brings down the proud. |
    |