Destruction Eagerly Waits to Befall the Wicked – (Proverbs 17:19)
Daily Proverbs
Daily Bible Study
The phrase, "exalts his gate" is a very telling image used in this verse. This paints the picture of the arrogant wealthy person who in his pride flaunts his wealth with a huge house, having a large front door. All the while not knowing by their flaunting, they have invited death and destruction into their lives, through those very same doors. In addition, this paints the picture of someone who purposely creates strife. A person who no matter what their experience, they will always find cause for argument or criticism. This is a person who is at enmity against God, and controlled by their ego, their pride and their desire for self. God's word tells us that such a person will always find fault and criticize. They do so, not because a true problem exists, rather, they do so because their heart is corrupt and blackened by deceit.
The true motive of their heart is to destroy whatever exists in front of them. Their desire is to destroy what is good, and destroy what they cannot possess. However, all the while they are ignorant of the destruction which awaits them. A destruction brought about by their own wickedness. A destruction that God promises will fall on them without warning, if they do not repent and turn back towards Him, through Christ Jesus our Lord. Dear child of God, it's important to remember God want's our hearts and not our activities! God wants us to have a real relationship with Him and not religious acts of self-righteousness. Therefore, we have to remember, God doesn't just look at what we do, but He focuses on the thoughts and desires behind what we do. We are judged not just on our deeds, but also on the thoughts, motives and desires behind those actions. This means all those found without Jesus, will face God's judgment because of their pride and enmity toward God.