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The Real Benefit of Respect
Esther 5:9 'Haman went out that day happy and in high spirits. But when he saw Mordecai at the king's gate and observed that he neither rose nor showed fear in his presence, he was filled with rage against Mordecai.' (NIV)
 Most of us want respect. We want to know that at least some of the people who know us will respect the way we live. That is healthy. However, insecurity can lead us to need the respect of everyone we meet. When that kind of insecurity is left unchecked or undisciplined, it can lead us to a place where we crave the fawning and empty words of hangers-on. Or, where we demand the quaking, nervous homage of subordinates and those to whom we feel superior. This is not genuine respect because it is born mainly out of fear or out of self-interest on the part of others. In the epic story of queen Esther, we see her guardian Morecai pitted against his archenemy Haman, who is trying to wipe out the nation of Israel. Haman demonstrates all the negative fruit that a root of insecurity can bring to a human life. Like all of the great bullies in history, Haman is respected not because he deserves it, but because he needs it. Mordecai, on the other hand, shows self-effacing humility and great forbearance, even in the face of enormous disrespect. He, more than Haman, earns respect through is heroic actions, but he does not need it. In Mordecai's eyes, respect is a gift from God, a product of his favour, and is given for a purpose, one that has nothing to do with puffing up an ego or buttressing a crumbling self-image. For him, honour given him by others is only useful as a means to helping his people. Every one of us faces our own insecurities – that is a fact of life. The question is, will we allow God to help us overcome those feelings to embrace the legacy of Mordecai, or will we allow them to shape us into Haman's image, craving the respect of others at the expense of our own integrity?
Prayer: 'Father, please help me to recognize and discipline the insecurities in my life. I don't want them to master me. Help me to live a life that is worthy of respect, but not to put the respect of others above doing what is right.'
© 2003-2004 Mal Fletcher
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Every morning when I read Daily Recharge, God speaks to me so clearly through His word! I am so encouraged. Keep up the great work!
Sarah, Australia
I absolutely agree with you Mal on the danger of elevating of our leaders. There is something in man to want 'a king'. It's present in our current celebrity culture. It's curious when we see it in the world and it's pathetic when we see it in Christendom.
Michael Staires, United States
Mal, I saw you at Hillsong London and since then have visited your site a few times. Really enjoy your work. Very useful insights and content.
Bernard, UK
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