The Bible teaches us clearly about the prosperity of the bad, and at the same time warns us not to be confused or discouraged by it. Scripture acknowledges that, for a time, evil people may appear to prosper, succeed, or advance in life. They may accumulate wealth, influence, or recognition, and from a human perspective, their lives may seem enviable. However, the Word of God repeatedly reminds us that such prosperity is temporary and deceptive. That is why believers are instructed not to envy bad people, because their thoughts, desires, and intentions are continually inclined toward evil.
At first glance, the success of the wicked can raise questions in the hearts of the righteous. Why do those who practice evil sometimes seem to flourish while those who seek to do good face hardship? This struggle is not new. Many biblical figures wrestled with this same concern. Yet Scripture consistently directs our focus away from appearances and toward eternal truth. God sees beyond outward success and examines the heart, where the true condition of a person is revealed.
Should we be envious of the one who practices evil? The answer given by Scripture is a firm no. The bad man is not driven by righteousness or love, but by selfish ambition, malice, and deceit. His thoughts are consumed with doing harm, manipulating others, and planning ways to benefit himself at the expense of others. Though his actions may seem profitable for a moment, they are rooted in sin and rebellion against God.
This is why the Bible instructs us not only to avoid envy, but also to avoid close association with those who practice evil. When a person consistently walks in wickedness, their influence is destructive. Over time, their values, attitudes, and behaviors can begin to affect those around them. Scripture warns that bad company corrupts good character. To desire their lifestyle or imitate their ways is to place oneself on a dangerous path.
The end of the wicked is never peaceful. Although their journey may appear smooth at the beginning, it leads to destruction. Their success lacks stability, their joy is shallow, and their future is uncertain. The Bible makes it clear that those who persist in evil without repentance will face a terrible end. This reality should sober our hearts and remind us that true blessing is not measured by material gain, but by righteousness and fellowship with God.
That is why, in the following verse of Proverbs, we are clearly instructed not to envy evil men, nor associate with them, nor desire their company, nor participate in their sinful thoughts and actions that are displeasing before God. The wisdom of this command lies in its protective nature. God is not restricting us out of harshness, but guarding us from harm.
Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.
Proverbs 24:1
This proverb is brief, yet profoundly rich in meaning. It addresses both the inner attitude of the heart and the outward choices of life. Envy begins internally, when we admire or desire what the wicked possess. Association follows when we begin to draw near to them, imitate their behavior, or justify their actions. God warns us at the very beginning of this process, calling us to resist envy before it grows into compromise.
It is evident that this proverb exposes the dangers that reside in the heart of an evil man, particularly his dirty thoughts. These thoughts are not harmless or neutral; they shape actions and produce consequences. Evil thoughts give birth to sinful behavior, injustice, violence, and deception. That is why, as children of God, we must remain vigilant and intentionally distance ourselves from those who persist in such ways.
Being far from evil people does not mean harboring hatred or pride. Rather, it means exercising discernment. We are called to love all people, pray for sinners, and desire their repentance, but we are not called to imitate their lives or embrace their values. There is a clear difference between showing compassion and allowing ourselves to be influenced by wickedness. Wisdom teaches us where to draw that line.
It is very difficult to deal with people like these, especially because we live in a world where wickedness is widespread and often celebrated. Corruption, dishonesty, and immorality are frequently rewarded, while integrity and righteousness are mocked. In such an environment, believers must rely daily on the Lord for strength, clarity, and protection.
That is why it is good and necessary to pray continually, asking the Lord to cover us, to give us wisdom, and to sharpen our spiritual discernment. Only through God’s guidance can we clearly see what surrounds us and avoid being deceived by appearances. When we walk closely with God, He opens our eyes to the true nature of people and situations.
Let us not trust in the apparent success of the wicked, nor be envious of the bad man. What he has today can be taken away tomorrow, but what God gives to the righteous is eternal. Peace of heart, a clear conscience, and the hope of salvation are treasures far greater than anything the world can offer.
Instead of envying evil men, let us desire to walk with the righteous, to grow in holiness, and to seek the wisdom that comes from God. When we align our lives with His Word, we are preserved from the traps of envy and the influence of wickedness. God is faithful to bless those who trust in Him and to guide those who choose the path of righteousness.
May we always remember that true prosperity is found not in doing evil, but in fearing the Lord, obeying His commandments, and walking humbly before Him. This is the path that leads to life, peace, and eternal blessing.