KJV ORIGINAL
Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
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 BOTTOM LINE
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
This proverb was written during a time when Israel was surrounded by wealthy pagan nations that often seemed to prosper despite their immoral practices. The Israelites could easily become envious of their neighbors' material success and be tempted to abandon their faith. The wisdom literature of Proverbs was designed to help God's people stay faithful even when righteousness didn't seem to pay off immediately.
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