There’s something deeply unsettling about the way people celebrate the suffering of their enemies. It’s become so normalized, especially in religious spaces, to pray for vindication — not just justice, but vengeance. You’ll hear phrases like, “God will prepare a table for me in the presence of my enemies,” and it’s said with pride, almost as a warning. The message is clear: “You’ll suffer while I rise.”
But why is that something to celebrate?
Why are we so focused on seeing those who hurt us fall apart, lose everything, or suffer just so we can feel validated? What healing really comes from watching someone else go through pain?
Truthfully, this obsession with enemies is draining. It keeps us tied to bitterness. It keeps our focus locked on people who no longer have any power over our lives — unless we keep handing it to them with our thoughts, our prayers, and our energy.
And what makes us different from them, if we rejoice in their pain? If we gloat when they struggle?
A new song came out recently called “All My Enemies Are Suffering.” It’s catchy. It’s raw. But it also reflects a mindset that’s becoming too common — even in spiritual spaces. The idea that success isn’t enough unless your enemies are there to witness it. As if peace only counts if someone else is burning while you’re resting.
Here’s the thing: real peace doesn’t need an audience. It doesn’t demand your enemies suffer. It doesn’t keep score. It just is.
If you find yourself constantly hoping those who wronged you suffer, ask yourself: What do I still need to heal? Because thriving is not about proving anything to anyone. It’s about becoming so whole that what others do — or don’t do — no longer shakes you.
The solution? Let go. Release the need for your enemies to suffer. Reclaim that energy and use it to build the life you want. Not out of spite, not out of revenge, but out of peace. Shift the focus from “they’ll see me win” to “I’m finally free.” Because freedom is far better than revenge. And peace is the real prize.