When We Revel In Our “Enemy’s” Downfall
“I’m here today to apologize for the personal mistakes I’ve made and the embarrassment I’ve caused my family and community … I’m announcing my resignation from Congress …”
We’ve heard far too many speeches from politicians who found themselves in front of a microphone, confessing their transgressions because of their immoral behavior.
It’s hard not to be cynical about whether these politicians feel genuine remorse. There’s no doubt that their skeptics feel strong emotions as they observe the demise of their political “enemies.” But do any of these feelings include compassion or grace? Or are the cynics too busy celebrating the downfall of their rivals?
Then again, how many of us (the body of Christ) offer prayers for those who have fallen? Do we pray for God to bring healing and restoration to their lives, marriages, souls? Tragic incidents like these don’t limit themselves to national politics. We often deal with similar scenarios within our local communities and, sadly, in our churches.
- What do we gain when we revel in the demise of our political enemies or social rivals?
- What does our giddiness at their downfall say about us?
- Most importantly, how does our pleasure in watching our adversaries (or fellow church or community members) squirm define us as representatives of the body of Christ?
This week, we’ll focus on the first part of 1 Corinthians 13:6 (ESV). But first, let’s read the verse in its entirety:
[Love] does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.
Though you may try to hide it, do you find yourself sometimes enjoying someone’s downfall?
If so,
- How can we practice compassion when others – including those we’re not crazy about – bring humiliation to themselves and their families?
- How can we demonstrate God’s ways and His love?
We can begin by asking God to show us the times we’ve rejoiced during another’s time of shame. Then ask His forgiveness for being unloving and invite Him to help us recognize when we’re tempted to do so again.
We could also ask our heavenly Father to give us a humble heart and help us remember how many times we’ve blown it and how much it hurt when others shamed us. How many times we, too, needed grace and mercy.
Some of our actions may, in comparison, have been worse. The words, “There but by the grace of God,” come to mind as I consider that in the right circumstances, we could be the ones who find ourselves “in front of a microphone.”
What about you?
I’d love to hear your thoughts about this post. (Your comment might also benefit others.)
- Do you find yourself sometimes enjoying someone’s downfall?
- Would you consider asking God to bring healing and restoration to their lives, marriages, and souls instead?
- Perhaps it would help if you spend some time thinking about when you’ve needed grace and mercy.
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I’ve been there and with the Lord’s help I’ve made a lot of wonderful progress. It’s a continual battle but I’m determined not to look down on anyone.
Now whenever my husband makes a rather unsavory comment,I’m determined not to comment but rather offer a silent prayer.
Let’s just say that I’m a work in progress.
Me too, dear friend. Me too.
Praise God that He will continue the work He began in us!
Thank you, Sandra. I appreciate how often you stop by Today Can Be Different to leave a comment.
Sandra, I received a notification that you recently subscribed to my blog. THANK you.
I’m already subscribed.
Didn’t need to again.
Thanks for asking because we need to be careful.
Wonderfully written, thank you, Cheryl
THANK you, Melanie! That means a lot to me.
1 Corinthians 13:6 (ESV): “[Love] does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.”
Though you may try to hide it, do you find yourself sometimes enjoying someone’s downfall?
We all need to get the log out of our own eye before we get the speck out of others. Sheryl you know what I have been dealing with and,I am thankful with God’s help i am getting through it all andI am a work in progress too.
Amen! Praise God for His grace, Susan. And for His mercy as He continues the work He has begun in each of us.
We all want the truth to be revealed, as the Lord does, but we shouldn’t revel in another’s downfall, but we need to love our enemies, and have compassion on another’s failing! Sometimes this is easier said than done, because if we are honest, we all have times when we are glad when someone receives justice for their wrongdoing, and maybe we enjoy it too much. How would you like it if someone else did the same for you? Nobody’s perfect; definitely not me! Maybe we should try praying for them instead! “Do unto others what you would have them to do unto you!” Matthew 7:12 Thanks Sheryl!
Exactly, Kim. We indeed want the truth to be revealed, as well as all deception.
Matthew 7:12 is a perfect verse to support my premise of this devotion. Thank you for sharing it.
What a wonderful response. I agree that it’s easier Saud than done but not impossible. With the Lord’s help, He can give us the strength to do so.
Amen! We can do ALL things with God’s help, including praying for ~ and showing compassion for ~ all those who have brought shame upon themselves and their families. Thank you, Sandra, for furthering the conversation.