Definition: And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, [they that] tempt God are even delivered.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Malachi 3:15. It’s a really important and somewhat sobering message about sin and judgment. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, the verse is saying: “People who are proud and happy, those who actively choose to do wrong and disobey God, are especially punished.” Let's unpack that a little further: "Now we call the proud happy..." This isn’t just about someone who occasionally has a good mood. It suggests a deep-seated pride and a refusal to acknowledge their mistakes. They’re comfortable in their own arrogance, even if it’s a self-imposed one. "...they that work wickedness are set up..." This is the core of the message. "Workings of wickedness" refers to acts of sin, disobedience, and harmful behavior – lying, stealing, cheating, breaking promises, etc. It's about actively choosing to be bad. Think of it as a deliberate path away from God. "...yea, [they that] tempt God are even delivered." This is the kicker! "They who tempt God" means those who deliberately seek to provoke God’s anger and displeasure. It's not just about being slightly off-kilter; it's a conscious effort to be rebellious and disrespectful. And, crucially, this act results in deliverance . Deliverance means being saved or forgiven by God – a way of being brought back into his favor. So, the whole verse paints a picture: Those who are proud and actively choose to do wrong will be punished severely. It’s a warning about the consequences of sin and a plea for repentance (turning away from wrongdoing). In short, it's a judgment on those who prioritize their own desires over God's will. Does that make sense? Do you want me to: Explain any specific parts in more detail? Give you a historical or cultural context for the verse?