True Justice, Riches, and Authority/Law

(Encouraged reading: Proverbs 28)

v. 1-2, 5, 10, 13-14, 17-18, 21, 24 True Justice

   “The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.” Proverbs 28:1

     To deliver justice a person must have understanding. Understanding and wisdom come from the Lord. This is why evil men do not understand justice. True justice can only result from seeking truth; partiality and covering up sin pervert justice. The self-deceived person suppresses the truth which brings destruction. The wicked man’s sins burden him.

v. 3, 6, 8, 11, 19-20, 22-23, 27 True Riches

     “Better is the poor who walks in his integrity than one perverse in his ways, though he be rich.” Proverbs 28:6

     Riches gained by thievery, blackmail, and working little will not endure. However, the diligent worker and generous person will not lack. Better is the poor with integrity and understanding than the rich who lack character and wisdom.

v. 4, 7, 9, 12, 15-16, 25-26, 28 True Authority/Law

     “Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but such as keep the law contend with them.” Proverbs 28:4

     God is a god of order and has established laws; a wise person will choose to obey them. One brings trouble upon himself when he refuses to abide by laws. History has proven anarchy promotes lawlessness, chaos, and destruction; ultimately such is rebellion against God. Also, wicked rulers and godless authority lack understanding, which comes from God. They abuse power and bring harm and oppression upon man, which most certainly is not of God.

Application/Prayer:

     Lord, may our actions align with Your standards. May we pursue justice and be bold to speak against unrighteousness. May we desire to be like Jesus, our Lord, who lived a lowly life but one of character rather than seeking temporary riches. And, may we respect law and authority for Your Word tells us that You set the leaders into authority and You establish laws.