Bible verses for children
Do not celebrate another person’s pain.
Proverbs 24:17
Don’t rejoice when your enemy falls. Don’t let your heart be glad when he is overthrown,
Proverbs 24:17 · World English Bible Classic (WEB)
In simple words
What does this verse mean?
Even when someone has treated us badly, their suffering is not an entertainment. The verse asks us not to delight in their downfall. We can want harmful behaviour stopped and welcome justice without enjoying another person being hurt.
If a child who annoyed you gets injured, call for help instead of laughing. You can keep sensible boundaries and still care about their safety.
Talk about it
How can you want fairness without enjoying someone else’s pain?
A little more to explore
Bible context & readings +
Proverbs 24:17–18 addresses gloating when an enemy falls. Read the warning as a check on revengeful delight, not as a demand to become close friends with someone unsafe. Compassion and appropriate protection can belong together.
Full readings at eBible.org · World English Bible Classic. Read with an adult.A simple prayer +
God, help us seek justice without delighting in anyone’s suffering. Amen.
A suggested prayer, written for this guide.