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| MEASURING SELF-WORTH "When Haman saw that Mordecai would not kneel down or pay him honor, he was enraged. (Esther 3:5) The most arrogant people are often those who must measure their self-worth by the power of influence they have over others. Haman was an extremely arrogant leader. He hated all Jews because of their long-standing enmity with his own people. So when Mordecai refused to bow in submission to him, Haman wanted to destroy him. Mordecai's dedication to God and his refusal to pay homage to any man challenged Haman's self-centered religion. He became consumed with plotting Mordecai's arrest. But like others who opposed God, Haman's scheme led to His downfall. Our initial response to the story about Haman is to say that he got what he deserved. But the Bible leads us to ask deeper questions: Do I share some of Haman's traits? Do I desire to control others? Am I threatened when others don't appreciate me as I think they should? Do I want revenge when my pride is attacked? Haman's treachery should remind us that power corrupts. Christians are not exempt from its temptations. Ask God to create in you an attitude of mercy and humility. God will exalt those who humble themselves. **************** There is a power of selfishness, The proud and willful I; Before my Lord can reign in me, That proud old self must die. (Anon) ***************** From: Life Lessons from Bible people Haman (orig. title) |