Day 77: Do Not Envy Evil Men

Day 77: Do Not Envy Evil Men

Scripture Reading: Proverbs 24:1–7

Key Verse:

“Be not envious of evil men, nor desire to be with them, for their hearts devise violence, and their lips talk of trouble.” — Proverbs 24:1-2 (ESV)

Reflection

It’s easy to look around and feel like the wicked are winning. Corrupt leaders, dishonest businessmen, and immoral influencers often seem to prosper, gaining wealth, power, and influence while those who try to live righteously struggle. Solomon warns us not to envy them—their success is an illusion, and their end is destruction.

The heart of the wicked is filled with violence (vv. 1-2). Evil men may appear successful, but their hearts are consumed with destruction, manipulation, and self-interest. They may seem to have it all, but their path leads to emptiness and judgment. Wise leaders refuse to associate with those whose motives are corrupt, no matter how much they promise success.

True wisdom builds, while wickedness destroys (vv. 3-4). Solomon contrasts the house of the wise—built with understanding, knowledge, and stability—with the temporary success of the wicked. The difference? Wisdom leads to lasting prosperity, but evil success is built on sand.

Foolishness has no place in leadership (v. 7). The fool, lacking wisdom, has nothing to contribute when real decisions need to be made. Leadership requires discernment, wisdom, and godly counsel. Those who seek shortcuts, dishonesty, or corrupt alliances may rise quickly, but they will ultimately fall.

This passage reminds us that true success is measured not by wealth or status but by wisdom, righteousness, and integrity. We must resist the temptation to compare our journey to those who succeed through evil means. Their prosperity is temporary, but the rewards of wisdom are eternal.

Word Study: Envy (תִּקְנָא, tiqna’)

The Hebrew word tiqna’ means “to be jealous or intensely desire.” It carries the idea of longing for what another person has, even to the point of resentment or covetousness.

For leaders, tiqna’ is a warning against desiring the quick success, wealth, or influence of corrupt people. Instead, we are called to trust in God’s justice and seek wisdom over worldly success.

Challenge

Reflect on where you place your trust.

1. Are you tempted to envy the success of the wicked, or do you trust in God’s justice?

2. Are you surrounding yourself with godly influences, or are you drawn to people who prioritize power and wealth over righteousness?

Write down one way you can shift your focus from worldly success to godly wisdom this week.

Leadership in Action

Consider how envy and wisdom impact leadership.

• Are you making decisions based on integrity, even when it costs you?

• How can you create a leadership culture that values wisdom over shortcuts?

Identify one leadership challenge where you need to stand firm in wisdom rather than chasing worldly success. Take action this week to align your leadership with God’s truth rather than the world’s standards.

Prayer

Lord, keep my heart from envy and comparison. Help me to trust in Your wisdom and justice rather than longing for the temporary success of the wicked. Give me discernment to walk in righteousness and integrity, building my life and leadership on the foundation of Your truth. May I be a leader who honors You, seeking wisdom over wealth and righteousness over power. Amen.