“…You will be punished if you take pleasure in someone’s misfortune.” —Proverbs 17:5b (GNT)
Recently, a young man was murdered in cold blood, and I saw a video where some people were rejoicing, saying things like he deserved it. But as believers, should we respond to people’s misfortune this way? The answer is no.
Beloved, there are certain attitudes we should never display, even toward people we don’t like or agree with. Rejoicing at the misfortune of others is one of them. God frowns at such behavior because misfortune can happen to anyone. When it does, it’s not a cause for celebration. Instead, we ought to be sober and pray for God’s mercy to be extended to those affected, rather than gloating over their pain.
When you form the habit of rejoicing at people’s misfortune, the Word makes it clear that you will not go unpunished: “You will be punished if you take pleasure in someone’s misfortune.” —Proverbs 17:5b (GNT). You might ask, “But what if this person has offended me deeply and brought me pain? Isn’t it only fair that they suffer too?” The truth is, no matter what they have done to you, rejoicing at their downfall is not the believer’s response.
The Scriptures say: “Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles; lest the Lord see it, and it displease Him, and He turn away His wrath from him.” —Proverbs 24:17–18 (NKJV). Did you catch that? If you rejoice at another’s misfortune, you risk losing God’s favor. Therefore, on no occasion should you celebrate someone’s downfall—whether they wronged you or not. Always respond in a way that reflects Christ.
Today’s Rhema
No matter the offense, never rejoice at the misfortune of others!
Confession for the Day
Thank You, Father, for opening my eyes to this truth. I refuse to rejoice at anyone’s misfortune. Instead, I choose to pray for them and wish them well, in Jesus’ name. Amen!
