Today’s scripture: Esther 5:9-14 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Robert Ferguson):
“There is no fault which makes a man more unpopular, and no fault which we are more unconscious of within ourselves. And the more we have it within ourselves, the more we dislike it in others.” This is a quote by C.S. Lewis taken from his book, Mere Christianity. He was speaking about pride.
In our reading today we encounter Haman, a man who believes he is on top of the world. He has many sons, a prime position in the king’s service, and now a rare invitation to dine with the queen. Things were working out fine for Haman and he was proud of all that he had accomplished.
But on his way home to boast to family and friends about all he had done, Haman encounters Mordecai, who refuses to bow before him and give Haman the honor he thought he was due. Mordecai’s disrespect was viewed as a sign of pride in Haman’s eyes, but Haman fails to see the pride of his own heart.
Perhaps none of us are as filled with pride as Haman. However, today’s reading reminded me of how self-centered I can be. My problems, wants, needs and desires often become the center of my prayer life. Those thoughts and prayers often become my words and those words usually become the driving force behind my actions. Consequently, the vast majority of my actions end up being about what I need and how best to accomplish my will.
Am I alone in this struggle? We do value ourselves, and who among us does not want to take pride in a job well done or give our very best when called upon to serve? The problem comes when we value ourselves more than we value and honor the Lord our God. Often we seek praise for our accomplishments while being sparse with our praise for the only One who is truly worthy — Jesus.
It is easy to get caught up in the long list of things we must get done. If you are fortunate enough to be able to accomplish everything do not forget to put other’s needs ahead of your own. Consider the less fortunate person who is easily overlooked. God may have put someone in the middle of your path to teach you something, not just to get in your way or slow you down.
Pride comes in many forms and though it is hard to admit that we are guilty of holding this vice; on some level we are all afflicted. Yet, through Jesus Christ we are forgiven, and by the power of the Holy Spirit we are transformed into people who become less and less, while Jesus becomes more and more. Eventually, we will no longer take pride in ourselves, but only in Christ who is our life, breath, and salvation!
Thought for the day: Where is my focus — on myself, or on Jesus?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.