2024_07_05 Insight Post- Jenny Herzog
This week’s reading- Esther 3-10
The story of Haman in the Book of Esther illustrates the dramatic downfall of a leader who seemingly had it all, despite not deserving any of it. As the top official in King Xerxes’ court, Haman enjoyed wealth, power, pleasure, and praise. King Xerxes, insecure as a leader and a poor judge of character, was easily manipulated by Haman, who took full advantage of the situation. The king, disinterested in the act of governing, delegated much of his authority to Haman, even giving him the royal signet ring to authorize royal decrees.
Intoxicated by power and blinded by pride, Haman boasted of “his riches, his many sons, and the numerous occasions on which the king had honored him, promoting him above other officials and servants.” Esther 5:11 His enormous ego made him believe he was superior to others and deserved worship. Haman even convinced Xerxes to issue a decree demanding that people bow down to him.
Haman thought he was clever in manipulating the king into declaring war on the Jews without just cause, driven by longstanding hatred between his people and the Jews. However, his fatal mistake was plotting against God, not realizing that God was in control and would ultimately win the battle. If only someone had “spoken the truth in love,” Ephesians 4:15 to Haman, warning him against making the Jews his enemy. Instead, Haman was surrounded by “yes men” who told him whatever he wanted to hear, contributing to his downfall. It wasn’t long before Haman learned he wasn’t actually in control.
Haman’s fall from grace was swift and severe. His world came crashing down, and he found himself in Mordecai’s shoes as the one being outcast. In a remarkable twist of fate, King Xerxes ordered Haman to honor Mordecai by parading him on the king’s horse, dressed in royal robes, and shouting his praise throughout the city—an honor Haman had assumed would be for himself. “Haman hurried home, dejected and completely humiliated.” Esther 6:12 Not long afterward, he was impaled on the very pole he had erected for Mordecai. If only Haman had honored God instead of himself.
Recently, I have been saddened by the downfall of many leaders in politics, the corporate world, and especially the church. I’m the most brokenhearted when I hear about those in the church who were trusted to teach God’s word who have fallen prey to temptation and moral failure. I suspect they started to believe their own press and thought they were invincible. Their downfall not only destroyed their lives, but also impacted countless others who followed them, and diminished God’s name.
Unfortunately, we see people like Haman all around us. Jesus tells us to show them mercy, forgive them, and love them, but we are also meant to learn from their examples. That’s why their stories are included in the Bible. When I reflect on Haman’s downfall, three lessons stand out:
- Resist pride in our abilities and accomplishments. It’s easy to be tricked into thinking, “I’m successful because of my own actions,” forgetting that God is the one who “gives and takes away.” Job 1:21 We need to be humble and remember that “every good gift is from above.” James 1:17
- Surround ourselves with true friends who will give honest counsel, even when it’s hard to hear.
- Remain close to God, listening for His guidance so we can follow His will. Ultimately, success is defined by God, not men.
As you go through your week, I challenge you to look for ways you might be tempted to fall. It starts with a sinful thought that can quickly escalate to an action you will regret. Watch for pride and encourage your close friends to point out blind spots. Remember, we are all fallible and can crash and burn just like Haman did. It takes intentionality and accountability to live honorably. Our goal should be to hear God say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23
Jenny Herzog
New Hope Leadership Team Member & Elementary Classroom Leader