What can we learn about humility from Haman's experience in Esther 6:10? A King’s Command: Esther 6:10 “Then the king told Haman, ‘Hurry! Take the robe and the horse, just as you have suggested, and do for Mordecai the Jew, who sits at the King’s Gate. Do not neglect anything that you have recommended.’” Humility Lesson #1 – God Overrules Human Pride • Haman intended to exalt himself, but the Lord redirected events to honor Mordecai instead (Proverbs 19:21). • Pride’s plans crumble when confronted by God’s sovereignty (Proverbs 16:18). • The moment we seek applause for ourselves, we are positioned for correction (Isaiah 2:11). Humility Lesson #2 – Honor Is God-Given, Not Self-Claimed • Haman designed the very celebration that exalted his rival; only God assigns true honor (1 Samuel 2:30). • Mordecai’s earlier faithfulness (Esther 2:21-23) is now publicly rewarded—reminding us that humble obedience is never overlooked (Hebrews 6:10). • “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 14:11). Humility Lesson #3 – Serving Those We Resist • Haman had to robe and parade the man he hated, modeling the call to “outdo one another in showing honor” (Romans 12:10). • True humility submits to God’s assignments, even when they wound personal pride (Matthew 5:44). • Our willingness to honor others reveals whether Christ truly reigns in our hearts (Philippians 2:3-4). Humility Lesson #4 – Public Humiliation Warns the Proud • Haman’s shame was witnessed by the entire city, illustrating that unchecked pride eventually becomes public spectacle (Proverbs 11:2). • God “opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6); resisting His order invites open disgrace. • The episode foreshadows Haman’s ultimate downfall (Esther 7:9-10), underscoring that pride’s end is destruction. Practicing Humility Today • Seek daily opportunities to honor others before yourself—names, achievements, needs. • Invite the Lord to search hidden motives; repent quickly of self-promotion (Psalm 139:23-24). • Remember every ability, position, or recognition is a stewardship from God, not a personal trophy (1 Corinthians 4:7). • Celebrate the successes of those you might naturally envy, as Haman was commanded to do for Mordecai. • Anchor your worth in God’s approval, freeing you from the trap of human applause (Galatians 1:10). |
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