He will rain snares, fire and sulfur on the wicked, and a burning wind will be the portion of their cup.
This verse uses strong images of judgment. The fire, sulfur, and scorching wind recall God’s destructive judgment against stubborn evil. The phrase “the portion of their cup” means the share that in the end falls to a person as a result of the path he has chosen. The wicked may set traps for others and for a time feel secure, but he cannot escape God’s judgment. This word must not be used to encourage hatred or violence toward people. The right to judge belongs only to the Lord. The believer is called to love his enemy, to pray for his repentance, and to entrust evil into God’s hand. At the same time, sin must not be treated lightly. God’s patience does not mean that He will tolerate violence forever. The seriousness of judgment moves us to repentance and to seek refuge in grace.