Gloating

“Because Tyre has said in regard to Jerusalem, ‘Aha, the gateway of the peoples is broken; it has opened to me’ … this is what the LORD God says, ‘Behold, I am against you, Tyre, and I will bring up many nations against you.'” – Ezekiel 26:2-3 NASB

Tyre had become rich. This city on the Mediterranean coast had held out against attacks from Assyria and later Babylon. As a seaport and commercial center, its merchants gained great wealth, but these people also angered God. Why? They gloated over the misfortune of His people, taking advantage of them for their own purposes.

God knew His people had sinned. They had worshiped idols and rejected His Word. They would reap what they had sown and receive inevitable judgment. They had made mistakes but were still His people. He was still jealous for them. He still had a plan for their lives. He reserved the right to judge them, but He would also defend them and punish those who took advantage of them.

Gloating is a common reaction. This is a response when we take pleasure in the misfortune of others. It may seem understandable from a human perspective, but in God’s sight, it’s never acceptable.

We may see others making mistakes. We may be aware of believers who have sinned, but the Bible reminds us God wants us to be messengers of His love and healing, to be people of mercy and salvation, and to show compassion.

Today as you think about other people, ask God to give you His wisdom and discernment and to fill you with His love. Pray for others. Remember that He loves them. Be His messenger of compassion, mercy, and salvation.

Reflection Question: How can you tangibly show love to those around you today?