Zechariah 12-14, Revelation 2:1-17, Proverbs 24:15-22
Proverbs 24:17-18 (ESV)
“Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your
heart be glad when he stumbles, lest the Lord see it and be displeased, and
turn away his anger from him.”
In Proverbs 24:17–18, Solomon reminds believers not to
rejoice when their enemies fall. Instead, believers are called to reflect the
Lord’s character—mercy, restraint, and compassion toward those who oppose or
harm them. Rather than celebrating an enemy’s misfortune, believers should seek
opportunities for reconciliation and peace. We must trust that God the Father
judges both the actions and intentions of all people, and that He will deliver
justice in His own time and His own way. If a believer chooses the path of
retribution, Father-God will rebuke the proud and unloving heart that fuels it.
These verses feel especially relevant today, given the sharp
divisions in politics, lifestyles, and social issues. Many people view those
who disagree with them as “the enemy,” and on social media they openly gloat
over the misfortunes of the other side. There is much schadenfreude—pleasure
in someone else’s suffering. Some celebrate when their opponents stumble. And
while I may not openly rejoice, I know I am sometimes secretly pleased when my
“enemies” fall. These verses remind me that the Lord sees what is in my heart,
even if I never say it out loud or post it online. As a believer in Christ, I
must reflect Father-God’s character toward everyone—especially toward those I
am tempted to treat as enemies. When I trust the Lord and leave judgment to
Him, compassion replaces resentment. Aligning myself with Father-God’s will
fills me with His peace and His love—gifts I treasure more than anything else
in the world.
If these verses resonate with you—if you feel compelled to
place your faith in Jesus Christ, the One who can fill you with peace and
love—this could be your moment. Open your heart to Him. Speak to Him through
the following prayer and express your trust in Him. Share your desire to walk
with Him and welcome His presence into your life. God is faithful and ready to
meet you wherever you are.
Heavenly Father, I give You my life. Please forgive me for
all my sins and wash me clean through the blood of Jesus. I believe in my heart
that You raised Jesus from the dead, and I confess with my mouth that Jesus is
my Lord and Savior. Right now, I receive Your forgiveness and the gift of
salvation. Thank You, Lord—I am saved, I am forgiven, I am clean, and I am made
new in Jesus’ name. Amen.
If you prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of
Father-God! I encourage you to find and join a Holy Spirit-filled, full-Gospel,
Bible-based church where you can grow in your faith and experience the Lord’s
love, signs, wonders, and miracles in your life.
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