Proverbs 24:18

Lest the LORD see [it], and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.

Lest the LORD {H3068} see {H7200} it, and it displease {H7489}{H5869} him, and he turn away {H7725} his wrath {H639} from him.

For ADONAI might see it, and it would displease him; he might withdraw his anger from your foe.

or the LORD will see and disapprove, and turn His wrath away from him.

Lest Jehovah see it, and it displease him, And he turn away his wrath from him.

Commentary

Proverbs 24:18 serves as a profound continuation of the previous verse, Proverbs 24:17, which explicitly warns against rejoicing when one's enemy falls or stumbles. This verse reveals the divine consequence of such an uncharitable attitude, offering a crucial insight into God's character and justice.

Context

The book of Proverbs is a collection of wisdom sayings, guiding individuals toward righteous living and a deep understanding of God's ways. Chapters 22-24 contain a section known as "The Sayings of the Wise." This particular proverb addresses the temptation to gloat over the misfortune of an adversary. In ancient cultures, as today, human nature often inclines towards schadenfreude, finding satisfaction in an opponent's downfall. However, the wisdom of Proverbs consistently challenges such impulses, advocating for a higher standard of conduct rooted in divine principles.

Key Themes

  • Divine Omniscience and Displeasure: The phrase "Lest the LORD see [it], and it displease him" underscores God's omnipresent awareness. He not only sees outward actions but also discerns the heart's intentions and attitudes, including hidden delight in another's suffering. Such an attitude is an affront to His character, which values mercy and justice.
  • God's Sovereign Justice: The core message is a striking warning about divine intervention. If a person rejoices in an enemy's misfortune, God may actually turn His wrath away from that very enemy. This implies a potential reversal of fortune or a softening of judgment towards the one who stumbled, precisely because the observer's heart was unrighteous. It's a reminder that God's justice is not simplistic retribution but a complex interplay of mercy, judgment, and the state of the human heart.
  • The Peril of Vengeance: This verse implicitly warns against the spirit of vengeance. When individuals take delight in an enemy's suffering, they are, in essence, usurping God's role as the ultimate judge. The Bible consistently teaches against personal revenge, as seen in passages like Romans 12:19, which states, "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord."

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "displease" (ra'a') implies something evil or wicked in God's sight. It's not merely a mild disapproval but a strong sense of moral offense. The phrase "turn away his wrath from him" (hešîb 'appô mimmennû) vividly portrays a divine action of redirecting or removing judgment. It suggests that God's justice is dynamic and responsive to human attitudes, even those that are internal and seemingly private.

Practical Application

Proverbs 24:18 challenges us to cultivate a heart of compassion and humility, even towards those who may have wronged us or are considered adversaries. It teaches us several vital lessons:

  • Guard Your Heart: Our inner attitudes matter to God. We are called to pray for our enemies and bless those who curse us, as exhorted by Jesus in Matthew 5:44.
  • Leave Judgment to God: We are not to take pleasure in the downfall of others, nor are we to assume the role of judge. God alone sees the full picture and dispenses justice and mercy perfectly.
  • Focus on Personal Righteousness: Instead of focusing on the failings of others, this proverb redirects our attention to our own conduct and heart condition. Our primary concern should be to live in a way that pleases the Lord.

Ultimately, this verse encourages a radical form of grace and humility, reminding us that God's ways are higher than our ways, and His justice is often intertwined with unexpected mercy.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Zechariah 1:15 (1 votes)

    And I am very sore displeased with the heathen [that are] at ease: for I was but a little displeased, and they helped forward the affliction.

  • Zechariah 1:16 (1 votes)

    Therefore thus saith the LORD; I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies: my house shall be built in it, saith the LORD of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem.

  • Lamentations 4:21 (1 votes)

    ¶ Rejoice and be glad, O daughter of Edom, that dwellest in the land of Uz; the cup also shall pass through unto thee: thou shalt be drunken, and shalt make thyself naked.

  • Lamentations 4:22 (1 votes)

    The punishment of thine iniquity is accomplished, O daughter of Zion; he will no more carry thee away into captivity: he will visit thine iniquity, O daughter of Edom; he will discover thy sins.