Esther 6:12 - Homiletics

Glory exchanged for woe. "Boast not thyself of to-morrow," says the wise man, "for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth." Yesterday Haman was full of exultation and of boasting; his place was by the throne; his enemy was at his feet. This morning that enemy is in favour; his own position is imperilled; his vaunting seems vain; his prospects gloomy. As Haman goes to his house, after executing the king's behest, his heart is filled with apprehensions.

I. HIS MALICE IS DISAPPOINTED AND DEFEATED .

II. HIS JOY IS EXCHANGED FOR MOURNING .

III. HIS GLORYING IS SUCCEEDED BY SHAME .

He covers his head, as not daring to look any one in the face, as fearing that disgrace and disaster are at hand.

Practical lessons: —

1 . Remember the vicissitudes of human affairs.

2 . "Put not your trust in princess" or "in the son of man, in whom is no help."

3 . "Humble yourselves before the mighty hand of God." It is better to come before him in lowliness and contrition now than to appear before him in shame hereafter.