Day 79: Do Not Gloat Over Enemies

Day 79: Do Not Gloat Over Enemies

Scripture Reading: Proverbs 24:15–22

Key Verse:

“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.” — Proverbs 24:17-18 (ESV)

Reflection

Few things reveal the true condition of our hearts like how we respond when someone who has wronged us suffers consequences. Human nature loves revenge and vindication, but Solomon warns us against gloating over the downfall of an enemy. Why? Because God alone is the judge.

The wicked will fall (v. 15-16). Solomon reminds us that while the righteous may stumble, they rise again—but the wicked, when they fall, will not recover. This is not about wishing harm on others, but about trusting God’s justice instead of taking matters into our own hands.

Rejoicing over someone’s failure displeases God (vv. 17-18). Celebrating when an enemy falls reveals pride and a lack of mercy. If we trust God to handle justice, we won’t feel the need to rub it in when someone receives what they deserve. Instead, we are called to be people of grace, knowing that God has shown us mercy when we deserved judgment.

Fear the Lord, not rulers (vv. 19-22). Solomon closes with a warning: Don’t envy the wicked, and don’t align yourself with them. Human power is temporary, but God’s justice is eternal. Wise leaders understand that real success comes from honoring God, not from compromising to gain power or influence.

This passage challenges us to let go of bitterness, trust in God’s justice, and walk in humility. While it’s natural to feel satisfaction when the wicked fall, wisdom calls us to rise above vengeance and reflect the mercy of Christ.

Word Study: Gloat (שָׂמַח, samach)

The Hebrew word samach means “to rejoice, take pleasure in, or celebrate.” In this context, it carries a negative tone—delighting in someone else’s misfortune.

For leaders, samach is a warning that true wisdom does not take pleasure in the downfall of others, but instead trusts God’s justice and extends grace where possible.

Challenge

Reflect on your response to the failures of others.

1. Are you tempted to rejoice when someone who wronged you suffers?

2. Do you trust God’s justice, or do you feel the need to seek revenge or validation?

Write down one way you can cultivate humility and grace this week, especially toward those who have wronged you.

Leadership in Action

Consider how humility and justice influence your leadership.

• Are you leading with grace, or do you hold onto past wrongs?

• How can you set an example of mercy, integrity, and trust in God’s justice?

Identify one leadership challenge where you need to let go of resentment or a desire for revenge. Take action this week to respond with wisdom, humility, and grace.

Prayer

Lord, teach me to trust in Your justice rather than seeking my own. Guard my heart from pride, bitterness, and the temptation to gloat over the failures of others. Help me to walk in humility, showing mercy just as You have shown mercy to me. May my leadership and life reflect Your grace, wisdom, and righteousness. Amen.