Do Not Gloat Over Your Brother in the Day of Misfortune

[12] “You should not gloat over your brother in the day of his misfortune, nor rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their destruction, nor boast so much in the day of their trouble.” – Obadiah 1:12 (NIV)

When I was a little boy, I used to get offended when people laughed at me for failing something, probably getting a lower mark on a school test. So, having a vengeful heart, I didn’t spare those people when something bad happened to them. But growing up, I have learned that there is no need to wish evil on another person.

See, it is childish to gloat over your brother in the day of misfortune. When you do that, you break your trust in such a person. And it is quite unfortunate that many people live like this. They not only think evil about others but also manipulate others to make bad things happen to them. In Africa, some of these happenings are common, as people go as far as using witchcraft against others, even their own family members.

I don’t know how you think about others. But if you are one of those who don’t think well of others, it’s time to repent. Your life will not go uphill when you keep looking down on others. People grow; people change, and as these things happen, so must you mature to put away childish things. Prioritise your growth, both in the Spirit and in your thinking patterns.

You are a blessing.