When Others Fall
Ezekiel 25 begins with God's judgment against the surrounding nations of Ammon, Moab, Edom, and Philistia. Rather than grieving over Judah's destruction, these nations celebrated it. The Ammonites clapped and rejoiced when God's sanctuary was profaned and His people were taken into exile. They viewed Judah's suffering as an opportunity for their own gain. Yet God makes it clear that He sees not only our outward actions but also the attitudes of our hearts. Their pride, mockery, and delight in another's downfall did not go unnoticed. God declared that He Himself would judge them because He is just and righteous.
As a pastor, I've noticed how easy it can be to hear about another ministry struggling or another pastor falling into sin and have mixed emotions. If we're honest, there can be a subtle temptation to think, "Whew, at least it wasn't us," or even, "Maybe we'll gain some of their members and our ministry will grow because of this." That response is sinful because it reveals the pride lurking in our hearts. It is a dangerous temptation that pastors, ministry leaders, and church members alike must guard against. Instead of grieving over the damage done to Christ's church, we begin viewing someone else's downfall as our opportunity.
The same temptation exists in every area of life. It is easy to rejoice when those who have wronged us fail or when our rivals stumble. Our sinful hearts naturally compare ourselves with others and find satisfaction in their defeat. Yet God has called us to reflect His character, especially His love. Rather than delighting in judgment, we are to mourn over sin, pray for those who oppose us, and leave justice in God's hands. Jesus said, "Turn the other cheek." The cross reminds us that we all deserved judgment, yet God extended mercy to us through Christ. Having received such grace, we should be people who extend compassion rather than celebrate the failures of others.
May it be our prayer that we never become people who rejoice over another person's pain or failure. Instead, let us continually remember the mercy God has shown us through Jesus Christ. Because we have been forgiven, we are called to forgive. Because we have received compassion, we are called to show compassion. God is the righteous Judge, and we must continually ask Him to give us hearts that reflect His love, even toward those who have wronged us.
