Tag: kings house
Wisdom for those who rule!
Scripture reading for July 10th: Proverbs 22-24
The Bible teaches that we are all designed to rule and have dominion! Adam was given dominion over creation in order to tend and care for it as God desired and instructed. (Genesis 1:27-28) We need God’s wisdom because He is the source of all wisdom and authority and created all things for His purposes. Many of today’s proverbs offer wisdom to those in authority to enable them to effectively rule with the mind of God and avoid the snares of our enemy, the Devil.
The first truth that stands out to me in this section of Proverbs is the need for humility. (Proverbs 22:4) When we fear the Lord, God gives us discernment into the difference between good and evil. When we choose the good consistently we get wealth, honor and life as added benefits. We also get a good name and reputation, something that money can’t buy! (Proverbs 22:1) Keeping humility when God has blessed you can be a real test, for many times prosperity causes pride and God is forgotten or not honored.
When a king rules, he acts on behalf of God. A warning that is repeated is to treat the poor with equity and respect. (Proverbs 22:16, 22-23) When the poor are mistreated, God Himself promises to take up their case and rule on their behalf! Rulers should watch out for their friendships and social contacts. They must stay away from the adulteress and the hot-tempered man. (Proverbs 22:14, 24; 23:26-28) Both of those people lead to trouble. The ruler must not move an ancient boundary stone. When you are judging in court, be sure and convict the guilty and do not show partiality or take a bribe. God will bless righteous judgment and integrity! (Proverbs 24:23-25) Also, do not seek revenge because that is for God alone! (Proverbs 24:29)
This section warns of two other areas of danger for any in authority. Drunkenness is dangerous and addictive. (Proverbs 23:29-35) Drinking takes away your ability to have sound judgment and to see clearly. It causes violence and strife and quarrels. A hangover comes the next day and bloodshot eyes! It poisons our life like a snake-bite! The second warning is against laziness. (Proverbs 24:30-34) Laziness causes life to fall into ruin around you. Your life looks like a field that is not tended. Walls of protection are broken down and enemies steal the crop. Weeds grow and choke it out and thorns are a sign that the curse is at work. Laziness leads to poverty and lack!
“Humility and the fear of the Lord bring wealth and honor and life.” Proverbs 22:4
“A wise man has great power, and a man of knowledge increases strength; for waging war you need guidance and for victory many advisers.” Proverbs 24:5-6