Gloating is a behavior discouraged in the Bible. It refers to the act of delighting excessively in another’s misfortune or boasting about one’s own success in an inappropriate or unkind manner. The Bible provides many verses and teachings aimed at cultivating humility, kindness, and empathy, all of which stand as spiritual countermeasures to gloating.
What Does the Bible Say About Gloating?
The Bible contains numerous passages that lead readers to develop a clear understanding of why gloating is problematic. The importance of humility and compassion are regularly emphasized, as is the necessity for love and empathy when dealing with others. The Bible suggests that gloating only serves to separate individuals from each other, breeding discord and conflict. This not only harms interpersonal relationships but also goes against the practice of love as instructed by divine laws.
Why Discourages the Bible Gloating?
The Bible discourages gloating since it often stems from pride, one of the seven deadly sins. Taking joy in the misfortune of others signifies a lack of love and compassion – two virtues that every follower of the Bible should strive to possess. Moreover, gloating invokes a sense of superiority and arrogance, which can lead to the degradation of a humble and thankful heart, an attitude highly praised in the Bible. The Bible promotes humility and kindness, advocating for less rejoicing when others fall and more celebration in aiding their recovery.
Who Should Abstain from Gloating According to the Bible?
Anyone who aspires to live according to the teachings of the Bible should abstain from gloating over others’ hardships or personal accomplishments. Every person is equal before God, indicating that no one has the right to take pride in the downfall of their peers nor boast about their own achievements. Therefore, children, adults, and seniors, from all backgrounds and walks of life, should follow this teaching and replace gloating with compassionate understanding and humble self-reflection.
When Does the Bible Suggest We Should Show Empathy Instead of Gloating?
The Bible modestly but consistently suggests we should always choose to demonstrate empathy rather than gloat. This is particularly evident in situations where others are suffering or have experienced misfortune. Instead of exulting in their trouble, a more empathetic and compassionate response is to offer comfort, support, or help. Additionally, showing empathy when one experiences their own victory or success fosters humility. A humble heart does not gloat but appreciates its blessings and shares joy with others.
Where Can We Apply Bible’s Teachings on Gloating?
We can apply the Bible’s teachings on gloating in all walks of life – from our personal relationships to our professional interactions, and even in our own private reflections. It involves maintaining humility in the face of personal triumphs, extending a helping hand when seeing others in difficult situations, and nurturing an innate sense of compassion and empathy. This approach promotes harmony, love, and unity, as instructed by the Bible, and fosters an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
Below is the full list of bible verses on gloating (King James Version – KJV). The list is ranked in order of popularity and we hope you find the inspiration you need.
Most Popular Bible Verses About Gloating
Proverbs 24:17-18
“17 Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:18 Lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.”
Related Themes: Enemies Unforgiveness Sports
Obadiah 1:12
“12 But thou shouldest not have looked on the day of thy brother in the day that he became a stranger; neither shouldest thou have rejoiced over the children of Judah in the day of their destruction; neither shouldest thou have spoken proudly in the day of distress.”
Related Themes: Loyalty
Obadiah 1:13
“13 Thou shouldest not have entered into the gate of my people in the day of their calamity; yea, thou shouldest not have looked on their affliction in the day of their calamity, nor have laid hands on their substance in the day of their calamity;”
Romans 3:10
“10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:”
Related Themes: All Sins Being Equal Vindictiveness Glorification Righteousness Resentment
Proverbs 10:12
“12 Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.”
Related Themes: Bitterness Love Hate Forgiveness Strife
Luke 6:25
“25 Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep.”
James 1:14
“14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.”
Related Themes: Lust Coveting Indulgence
Jude 1:16
“16 These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men’s persons in admiration because of advantage.”
Related Themes: Complaining Lust Division Bragging Hypocrisy
Habakkuk 2:4
“4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.”
Proverbs 24:17
“17 Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:”
Related Themes: Enemies Unforgiveness Sports
Proverbs 27:1
“1 Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.”
Related Themes: Boasting Procrastination Bragging Tomorrow Fortune
Proverbs 27:2
“2 Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.”
James 1:5
“5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
Related Themes: Wisdom Education Dating Discernment Doubt
Proverbs 11:2
“2 When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.”
Matthew 5:48
“48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”
Related Themes: Holiness Morality Morals Perfection Sin
Habakkuk 2:3
“3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.”
Psalm 22:17
“17 I may tell all my bones: they look and stare upon me.”
