Proverbs 25:22

22 for you will heap coals of fire on their heads, and the Lord will reward you.

Proverbs 25:22 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 25:22

For thou shall heap coals of fire upon his head
Not to increase his punishment and damnation, the more aggravated by kindness shown him; but to bring him by such means to a sense of former injuries, and to shame for them, repentance of them, and love of the person injured, and carefulness for the future of doing him any further wrong; and the Lord shall reward thee:
with good things, for all the good done to thine enemy, whether it has the desired effect on him or not; or whether he rewards thee or not; see ( Romans 12:20 Romans 12:21 ) .

Proverbs 25:22 In-Context

20 Like vinegar on a wound is one who sings songs to a heavy heart. Like a moth in clothing or a worm in wood, sorrow gnaws at the human heart.
21 If your enemies are hungry, give them bread to eat; and if they are thirsty, give them water to drink;
22 for you will heap coals of fire on their heads, and the Lord will reward you.
23 The north wind produces rain, and a backbiting tongue, angry looks.
24 It is better to live in a corner of the housetop than in a house shared with a contentious wife.
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.