Tag: treat poor fairly
Rulers need wisdom!
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 owns all things and knows best how they will further 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.
Rulers need humility. (Proverbs 22:4) When we fear the Lord, God gives us discernment between good and evil. When we choose the good consistently we will 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) Staying humble after God has blessed us can be a real test, for prosperity can cause pride.
When a king rules, he acts on behalf of God. The poor must be treated with equity and respect. (Proverbs 22:16, 22-23) 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. When 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) Do not seek revenge because that is for God alone! (Proverbs 24:29)
Drunkenness is dangerous and addictive. (Proverbs 23:29-35) Drinking takes away sound judgment and ability to see clearly. It causes violence, strife and quarrels. A hangover comes the next day and bloodshot eyes! It poisons our life like a snake-bite!
The final 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