Proverbs 24:19-20
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The Hebrew word for "fret" suggests an intense burning or anger, not just mild annoyance. This warning isn't just about avoiding jealousy of the wicked's success, but about resisting the deep, fiery frustration that arises when their flourishing seems so unfair.
Fret not yourself because of evildoers, and be not envious of the wicked, for the evil man has no future; the lamp of the wicked will be put out.
English Standard Version (ESV)
The wisdom writer is addressing the common human tendency to become agitated or jealous when witnessing the apparent success and prosperity of wicked people. He warns against letting these feelings take root, reminding us that this outward flourishing is temporary and ultimately hollow. The verses that follow will reveal the true, eternal consequences of wickedness versus righteousness.
Ever seen someone get ahead through questionable means and felt a sting of jealousy? This verse tackles that exact feeling.
The Hebrew word translated "fret" or "burn" paints a vivid picture of inner turmoil. It's not just a little annoyance; it's a consuming fire of anger and resentment. When we see evil people succeeding, it's easy to feel like God's justice is off, or that their way is the better way to live. This verse warns us to shut down that internal combustion before it destroys our own peace and perspective.
Why shouldn't you envy the wicked? Because their 'good times' are numbered, and God's got a long-term plan.
The core reason to resist envy is that the prosperity of the wicked is fleeting. Their success is like a flickering candle – it can shine brightly for a moment, but it's destined to be extinguished. What looks like lasting triumph is actually a temporary advantage. While they might enjoy worldly gains now, their ultimate reward is perishing, while a righteous person has eternal security. This perspective shift helps us see beyond the immediate scene to the final accounting.
Understand the original words
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charah · Hebrew Verb
To be distressed, agitated, or anxious; often used in the context of being disturbed by the apparent success of the ungodly in a fallen world.
qana · Hebrew Verb
A feeling of resentment or jealousy regarding the success, prosperity, or status of others, specifically those who have gained through unrighteous means. It signifies a lack of trust in God’s ultimate justice.
ner · Hebrew Noun
A metaphor for life, prosperity, vitality, or witness. Having one's lamp extinguished signifies the end of life, the loss of influence, or the termination of God's favor.
This Psalm directly echoes the sentiment of Proverbs 24:19, urging believers not to be 'envious of wrongdoers' or 'fret because of evildoers,' addressing the same temptation to despair when seeing the wicked prosper.
Psalm 73:3This verse highlights the very struggle Proverbs warns against, as the psalmist admits, 'For I was envious of the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.'
Galatians 5:17This passage speaks to the internal conflict between the desires of the flesh and the Spirit, a conflict that can be fueled by envy and frustration when observing the success of those who don't follow God's ways.
Jeremiah 12:1Jeremiah wrestles with the same issue, questioning God's justice in allowing the wicked to prosper, showing that this is a timeless and deeply human struggle that Proverbs seeks to address.
pooleProverbs 24:19: "Fret not thyself because of evil men, neither be thou envious at the wicked;"
Fret not thyself; which translation of the word is confirmed by the parallel word in the following clause. Because of evil men; for their present impunity and good success.
bensonProverbs 24:19: "Fret not thyself because of evil men, neither be thou envious at the wicked;"
Proverbs 24:19-20 . Fret not thyself because of evil men — For their present impunity, or good success. For there shall be no reward to the evil man — All his hopes and happiness shall quickly and eternally perish, and he shall have no share in those solid felicities, and blessed recompenses of another life, which thou shalt enjoy. Therefore thou hast no reason to envy him. The candle of the wicked sh…
The Hebrew word for "fret" suggests an intense burning or anger, not just mild annoyance. This warning isn't just about avoiding jealousy of the wicked's success, but about resisting the deep, fiery frustration that arises when their flourishing seems so unfair.
The wisdom writer is addressing the common human tendency to become agitated or jealous when witnessing the apparent success and prosperity of wicked people. He warns against letting these feelings take root, reminding us that this outward flourishing is temporary and ultimately hollow. The verses that follow will reveal the true, eternal consequences of wickedness versus righteousness.
The wisdom writer is addressing the common human tendency to become agitated or jealous when witnessing the apparent success and prosperity of wicked people. He warns against letting these feelings take root, reminding us that this outward flourishing is temporary and ultimately hollow. The verses that follow will reveal the true, eternal consequences of wickedness versus righteousness.
"Fret not yourself because of evildoers, and be not envious of the wicked, for the evil man has no future; the lamp of the wicked will be put out." — The Hebrew word for "fret" suggests an intense burning or anger, not just mild annoyance. This warning isn't just about avoiding jealousy of the wicked's success, but about resisting the deep, fiery…
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Last reviewed October 2026
