EZEKIEL 25:1-7; MATTHEW 5:43-48; PROVERBS 24:17
There is a saying among the Akan people of Ghana that states, “The lizard is not as mad with the boys who threw stones at it as with the boys who stood by and rejoiced over its fate!” Rejoicing in someone’s misfortune is the same as contributing to their downfall or even desiring additional misery for them.
That was the mindset of the Ammonites, who cruelly rejoiced over the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem, the destruction of Israel’s country, and the exile of the people of Judah (Ezekiel 25:3). God was angry because they were spitefully celebrating their misfortunes.
How do we respond when others suffer a calamity or run into trouble?
We are cautioned in Proverbs not to celebrate when one of our enemies falters or to let our hearts delight when they stumble. According to Matthew, by doing this, we emulate the perfect love of our Lord.
🙏🏻Fill our hearts with Your love, Lord Jesus.
