by Tim Groves

This proverb shows that the actions of ungodly people do have consequences. There are many examples of notoriously wicked men being overthrown for their wickedness.

A good example of this was a man named Achan, who lived during the time of Joshua. When Israel overthrew Jericho, Achan took and hid some items that he was forbidden to take from Jericho. By doing this, all of Israel came under a curse, and they were defeated when they tried to take the city of Ai (Joshua 7:1-12).

Joshua discovered it was Achan who was causing the rest of Israel to suffer. Achan was held accountable (verses 19-25).

Similarly, in the book of Esther we read of a man named Haman who plotted to destroy all of the Jews. Haman especially disliked one particular Jew named Mordecai because he would not bow down to him (Esther 3:1-6). Later, at the suggestion of his wife, Haman even built gallows and was going to try to convince the king to hang Mordecai (Esther 5:14).

But in the end, Haman’s plot was overturned. Mordecai was promoted, the Jews were preserved, and Haman was hung on his own gallows (Esther 7:3-10).

Though the wicked often face the consequences of their actions in this life, sometimes they don’t. Ultimately, however, those who refuse to repent will face the consequences of their actions. To learn more about how all are affected by sin, be sure to read our article “Effects of Sin.”

Tomorrow on the Daily Bible Verse Blog: "Anger Can Lead to Sin."