Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long.
Don't let your heart be jealous of those who sin, but instead live in reverence and respect for the LORD all day long.
The writer is warning us not to be envious of people who do wrong things, but instead to focus on honoring God throughout our entire day.
📚 Historical Context
In the time of King Solomon, who is traditionally credited with writing Proverbs, people in ancient Israel were often tempted to envy those who seemed to prosper through sinful ways, as wealth and status were highly valued in that culture. This verse is part of a collection of wise sayings designed to guide individuals, especially the young, toward righteous living in a world full of moral challenges. The "fear of the LORD" in this context emphasizes a deep respect and obedience to God as the foundation of true wisdom, contrasting with the short-lived benefits of sinful behavior.
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