Wisdom Nugget

“Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice,” Proverbs‬ ‭24:17‬ ‭

Who is your enemy? An enemy is someone who does not like you, never vice versa, for you are not allowed by God to have someone you do not like. Now when that person who does not as you fall into trouble, do not rejoice. We know in this comparing and competing culture, the temptation to enjoy the faltering of others is high. It is not easy to control the urge to rejoice when our enemies experience trouble, but the word reminds us that, “Those who rejoice at the misfortune of others will be punished” Prov 17:5. 

The proper godly approach to life and the failings of others are outlined in the book of Romans. “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” Romans‬ ‭12:14‬. ‬ We can not claim to walk with God and rejoice when others fail. “Love does not delight in evil … .” 1 Cor‬ ‭13:6‬. In fact, Jesus told us what to do. He said we are to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Mt 5:44).