Date: Saturday, 28th February, 2026
Text: Esther 1:1-22
Author: Pastor Adedeji Fadehan
Exhortation:
It is one thing to attain greatness and it is completely another thing to sustain it. Many rise by favour, opportunity, and divine orchestration, but only those who walk in humility remain established. The higher the elevation, the greater the need for caution. A moment of pride can dismantle years of honour.
In the days of Ahasuerus, ruler over one hundred and seven and twenty provinces, Vashti sat at the pinnacle of influence and splendour. She enjoyed royal dignity, wealth, and global recognition. Yet, at a defining moment, she refused the king’s command. What seemed like a simple act of defiance triggered irreversible consequences. Within a short time, the throne she once occupied was declared vacant.
Scripture warns us clearly: “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18). The fall of Vashti was not gradual—it was swift. Another scripture echoes this caution: “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” (1 Corinthians 10:12). No matter how secure a position appears, it must be guarded with humility, obedience, and wisdom.
Ironically, the vacancy created by pride became the doorway for divine purpose. Esther, a young Jewish orphan raised by Mordecai, was lifted from obscurity to royalty. God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. Sustainable greatness is not preserved by beauty, status, or influence—it is preserved by humility, watchfulness, sobriety, and prompt obedience to rightful authority.
May we never lose by pride what grace has given us by favour.
Prayer Nugget: Father, clothe me with humility; deliver me from pride and keep me watchful, obedient, and faithful in Jesus’ name.
Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 20–22