Solomon’s Proverbs: Politics
God ordained kings and other civil rulers, and Solomon was a king. His inspired advice about government and politics should be highly valued. Does the Bible deal with such things? Indeed! Right here in the book of Proverbs. Would to God our nations’ leaders would use Proverbs as a handbook for their lives and offices. Learn some political wisdom today.
Political Proverbs of Solomon: Audio Commentaries
Proverbs 21:1
“The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD,
as the rivers of water:
he turneth it whithersoever he will.”
Are kings absolute rulers? Yes, and no. A true monarch has absolute authority over his subjects, but he himself is subject to a king – the King of kings! Great political comfort comes from knowing who rules all rulers!
Proverbs 24:21
“My son, fear thou the LORD and the king:
and meddle not with them that are given to change:”
Authority comes from God, including that you may have and that which you are under. Rebellion and sedition are terrible crimes, and God will punish them severely. Stay away from those who criticize or ridicule rulers.
Proverbs 29:4
“The king by judgment establisheth the land:
but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.”
A nation will be as great as its government is fair and right. Bribery of rulers is obviously wrong, and it will corrupt and destroy a nation. But so are all favors, kickbacks, and privileges given by lobbyists and others to influence law.
Proverbs 14:35
“The king’s favour is toward a wise servant:
but his wrath is against him that causeth shame.”
The simplest rule about authority is to obey it! If you obey a ruler well, favor and promotion are sure to follow. If you rebel or shame those in authority, punishment and trouble are sure to follow. This is true for all spheres of authority.
Proverbs 20:26
“A wise king scattereth the wicked,
and bringeth the wheel over them.”
Do you tire of hearing about criminals getting away with crimes? A wise ruler will crush the wicked to powder. Potential rebels will fear, and loyal citizens will rejoice. Rulers must be strict and severe to help a nation to greatness.
Proverbs 25:5
“Take away the wicked from before the king,
and his throne shall be established in righteousness.”
Advisors are necessary in every government. But only honest and wise counselors will do. A government will reflect the integrity of its staff, which makes even lower offices important. Government employees must be virtuous.
Proverbs 16:14
“The wrath of a king is as messengers of death:
but a wise man will pacify it.”
Respect, submission, and obedience will pacify angry rulers, whether the supreme court or the local sheriff ticketing your driving. Instead of worrying about your rights, consider your responsibilities and their rightful authority!
Proverbs 29:26
“Many seek the ruler’s favour;
but every man’s judgment
cometh from the LORD.”
Government can only help so much. You will be often frustrated and vulnerable if you trust them for provision and protection. But all hope is not lost! The best help and mercy comes from the king of heaven. Put your trust in Him!