What can we learn about humility from Haman's attitude in Esther 5:12? Setting the Scene King Xerxes has just attended Queen Esther’s private banquet. Haman, second in command, leaves the feast elated—convinced his importance has reached new heights. The Verse “Furthermore, Haman said, ‘Even Queen Esther did not invite anyone but me to join the king at the banquet she had prepared. I am invited again tomorrow along with the king.’” (Esther 5:12) Haman’s Heart on Display • Self-promotion: Haman centers the conversation on his exclusive invitation. • Entitlement: He assumes tomorrow’s honor is guaranteed. • Comparison: His joy rests on being above others, not on serving them. • Blindness to danger: While boasting, he ignores the looming threat of pride’s fall (Esther 6–7). Lessons on Humility • Honor is God-given, not self-claimed (1 Samuel 2:7–8; James 1:17). • Boasting misreads providence—God can flip a situation overnight (Esther 6:1–10). • True greatness serves quietly (Mark 10:42–45). • Recognition today does not secure tomorrow; only God does (Proverbs 27:1). • Pride draws God’s opposition, humility His favor (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5). Scriptural Echoes • “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18) • “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11) • “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:31) Application Today • Celebrate blessings without centering yourself—credit the Lord instead. • Guard conversations: replace “I, me, my” with gratitude and acknowledgment of God’s grace. • Seek ways to honor others rather than highlighting personal achievements (Philippians 2:3–4). • Remember Haman: today’s applause can become tomorrow’s gallows when pride governs the heart. |
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