Scripture Focus: Esther 3 / John 10:10
Theme: Faithfulness vs. Ego
1. The Motivation: Faith vs. Performance
There is a striking contrast in what drives us.
- Haman was driven by the “people around him.” He needed the audience and the external validation of everyone bowing. His power was fragile because it depended on human recognition.
- Mordecai was driven by his “faith and trust in God.” Because his identity was rooted in God, he didn’t need the king’s approval.
2. The Nature of the Enemy: The Thief and the Egocentric
Haman’s hatred reminds us of the spirit of the enemy in John 10:10. Satan uses human ego—like Haman’s—to carry out his mission to “steal, kill, and destroy.”
- The King’s Folly: He took a “rumor as truth.” This is a warning for us today. When we allow rumors or unverified reports to dictate our actions, we become tools for the enemy’s destruction.
- The Abuse of Authority: A leader’s character determines the peace of the city. The promotion of an ungodly man “caused confusion in Susa.” When pride sits in the seat of power, the innocent suffer.
3. The Unshakable Kingdom
Even though the entire province was “shaken,” God was not. Mordecai’s refusal to bow wasn’t just about being stubborn; it was an act of worship. He knew that if he bowed to Haman, he would be giving a man the honor due only to God.
- The Lawless King vs. The Sovereign God: Ahasuerus was lawless and impulsive, but he was ultimately a pawn in a story he didn’t understand. God was positioning the “unbowed” Mordecai and Queen Esther for a deliverance that Haman couldn’t see coming.
Prayer of Application
Dear Lord, in a world that demands I bow to the latest trends, rumors, or egocentric leaders, please help me to remain upright in my faith. Please guard my heart from pride and impulsiveness. When the world around me is shaken by confusion and the abuse of authority, let my life be a steady testimony of your patience, kindness and sovereignty. in the name of Jesus, Amen.
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