Do Not Rejoice at Their Fall

Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles, or the LORD will see and disapprove, and turn His wrath away from him. 
— Proverbs 24:17–18


Just as Jesus calls us to do good to those who hate us, this proverb speaks to the posture of our hearts when those who have wronged us experience hardship. There is a subtle temptation in the human heart to feel satisfaction—or even delight—when someone who has opposed us experiences failure or misfortune. This proverb warns us against that impulse, not only because it reveals a lack of compassion, but because it dishonors God, who is merciful and just. Rejoicing over an enemy’s fall is rooted in pride and a desire for vindication, but Scripture calls us to a different response—one that aligns with God’s heart.

True reconciliation reaches beyond outward acts of kindness; it touches the quiet places of motive and emotion. When we find ourselves secretly pleased by another’s downfall, it reveals how easily pride can masquerade as righteousness. God’s heart is always redemptive—He longs not for destruction, but for restoration. To share His heart means to grieve over sin’s consequences, even when they come upon those who have wounded us, and to pray that His mercy will bring renewal where pain has reigned. Compassion, not triumph, is the mark of a heart shaped by grace.

Is there someone whose struggles you have quietly celebrated in your thoughts? What might repentance and compassion look like toward them? How does this proverb challenge your understanding of justice, mercy, and humility before God? What practices can help you cultivate a heart that rejoices not in another’s downfall, but in their redemption?

Today, ask God to replace any sense of satisfaction with compassion, and pray for that person’s healing, growth, or repentance. In doing so, you reflect the heart of Christ, who came not to condemn but to save.


Merciful God, 

Guard my heart from rejoicing at the misfortune of others, even those who have wronged me. Give me compassion instead of pride, and teach me to pray for restoration where I might otherwise feel satisfaction. Let my responses honor You and reflect Your mercy. 

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

-

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