Don’t gloat.

Proverbs 24:17

Let’s be honest here… this one is hard… the Germans even have a word for this exact feeling and action: schadenfreude … it means pleasure at the misfortune of others. We may find the term a bit humorous… but it often does describe our natural, fallen, condition. But, just because it is natural, that doesn’t mean it is right or good.

I love when I am reminded of verses in Scripture that turn modern sensibilities on their head. Probably because it is a nice reminder that people have always been like this - employing schadenfreude - and if they have always been like this… then the Gospel is still for them… and for me.

When our enemies fall down, assumedly not to their death (euphemistically) but simply trip and cascade down… we heap burning coals on their heads by showing them grace and mercy. Hezekiah’s proverbs (specifically Proverbs 25:21-22) remind us that if we treat our enemies with kindness we will proclaim the Truth of the LORD (gaining favor and reward from Him), and we will probably make that enemy think twice about what they were upset about! Additionally, we must remember that vengeance is the LORD’s … not ours… so we don’t need to be wishing pain and suffering on our enemies.

If we offer a hand when an enemy stumbles… and take care to help when they fall… you may just exchange an enemy for a brother… A brother in Christ that you will enjoy for all eternity as you worship the One who made both of you in His image.