Day 267 – Esther 6-10

Talking Points

• It’s almost comical to read about Haman’s plan being turned upside down. Can’t you imagine his bitter disgust as he leads Mordecai on parade through the streets!
• In an insane turn of events, the Jews are saved and the plot for their annihilation is averted. They are given the right to defend themselves, and many thousands of their enemies are killed. Mordecai is placed in leadership and is remembered as “one who sought the good of his people and one who spoke for the welfare of his entire nation” (Esther 10:3). A dismal situation was remedied and, “For the Jews there was light, joy, jubilation, and honor” (8:16). Esther demonstrates God does not approve of sin, yet, if submitted to Him, any situation can be turned into a tool for His purpose and a platform for His glory! It is the very essence of His gospel.

Thoughts

The ugliness of pride and its folly is vividly on display throughout the book of Esther. First, the king’s pride and grotesque need for self-exaltation hurts Vashti and every other woman in his kingdom — those within and without his harem.

Then, Haman, much like his king, is drenched in prideful arrogance. When the king seeks to honor “the man,” and asks for Haman’s input, Haman narcissistically assumes, “Whom would the king desire to honor more than me?” (Esther 6:6).

These prideful men contrast starkly against Mordecai, who doesn’t demand recompense for his role in saving the king’s life, and Esther, who humbly risks her life to save her people.

As we read this account, it becomes easier to see why God hates pride. It truly is the motivation of all sin. Lord, help us to be humble.

“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” – Luke 14:11

“He leads the humble in justice, And He teaches the humble His way.” – Psalm 25:9