In the third chapter of the book of Esther, we are introduced to the main antagonist of this story, Haman. In verse 1, we see Haman described as an Agagite, a possible connection to another tyrant in the Bible. This description gives us a clue that the hatred, bitterness, and resentment that drives Haman could be more than just a personal prejudice. It may be rooted in a century long conflict we can see all the way back in Exodus 17 with King Agag attacking the Israelites. It can be easy to write off people like Haman and King Agag as evil villains far removed from our own reality. Yet, tyrants like Haman have been a constant presence in our world. Deep roots in the wrong place can destroy someone. Our human nature leads us to root ourselves in the wrong things.

It is very easy to root ourselves in the wrong things. While our bitterness is most likely not found in century long generational grudges, we may root our grudges in differing views or opinions on any number of matters, such as politics or even sports teams. When we hold bitterness for the other side, we lose out on many opportunities for connection with others. If we root ourselves in the wrong things, like Haman, then we find ourselves drifting farther away from humility and a life with God. A life rooted in anything besides Christ will be temporary and fleeting. We cannot hold on to these bitter feelings of hatred and revenge. For Haman, this journey away from humbleness cost him his life and any chance at a relationship with God. If we are not careful, this could happen in our lives too. Thankfully, we know better than Haman and have the tools to readjust our lives to be rooted in and only in Christ.

• Final thought: Ask God to reveal the deep roots in your own life and find ways to anchor your life in Christ.