Human free will shapes the trajectory of a person's life and determines how Divine providence interacts with them. The world presents a stark contrast between two distinct paths: the way of those who mock, characterized by pride and disrespect, and the way of the humble, marked by modesty and deep respect for others. God's response to each group operates on a principle of measure for measure, allowing the natural consequences of human choices to unfold. Those who choose the negative path are defined as individuals who constantly mock and belittle other people [רלב״ג, מצודת דוד]. They can also be viewed as fools who reject the laws of wisdom out of arrogance and a pursuit of physical desires [מלבי״ם]. The primary approach among commentators is that God responds to these individuals exactly as they treat others. Because they spend their lives mocking people, God will arrange events so that they themselves become an object of ridicule and public mockery on the day of their downfall.
Viewing this dynamic through the lens of free will, God does not actively force these individuals to change. Instead, He leaves them to their own devices, allowing them to remain in their cynicism, and anyone who chooses to associate with them will eventually become a mocker as well [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ, עמנואל הרומי]. A more complex perspective suggests that God seemingly mocks the wicked by granting them temporary success. This fleeting prosperity acts as a stumbling block, preventing them from feeling the need to repent and ultimately leading to their complete destruction [אלשיך]. Offering a unique alternative, another viewpoint suggests that the righteous actually step in to speak directly to these mockers, warning them to abandon their destructive path before it is too late [אבן עזרא].
On the opposite end of the spectrum are those who choose the positive path of humility. These individuals treat every person with respect and maintain a modest spirit [רלב״ג, מצודת דוד]. They actively distance themselves from cynicism [אבן עזרא] and humbly recognize that their own intellect is too limited to grasp all the hidden mysteries of true wisdom [מלבי״ם]. The commentators agree that anyone who chooses to surround themselves with such humble people will be blessed with wisdom and kindness from God. As a result, their actions will naturally earn them deep respect and favor in the eyes of society. This favor is understood as a free gift from God, granted as an extra blessing on top of the standard reward they already earn through their wisdom and good deeds [אבן עזרא, אלשיך, אמרי דעת].