“When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability.” Proverbs 28:2
I realize government/politics can create soapboxes people can be on for a long time. Regardless of political views, we as followers of Christ really need to think through what the Bible says. This Proverb plainly tells us that for a government or a society to endure, it needs wise, informed leaders—and wise leaders are hard to find. The beginning of wisdom/knowledge is fear of the Lord, right? Enough said…
Let’s take it a step further; each individual’s selfishness affects others. Think about the law. What happens when someone breaks the law and drives after they had been drinking? The highways/freeways aren’t safe. What about the selfishness and greed from leaders who embezzle money from their companies, or unfairly take advantage of their citizens? We’ve all seen and felt, and are still feeling the outcome of that. If we think on a more personal level, those who have adulterous affairs usually break apart families and lives. There are far too many people living only for themselves, and with little concern for how their actions affect others. The resulting moral rot contaminates the entire nation. Morality has a domino effect. Are you part of the problem or the solution?
“People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.” Proverbs 28: 13
When I first read this Proverb, I immediately thought of salvation (“If we confess our sins, He will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”). But the message here is about openly admitting our sins and taking responsibility for wrong actions. I think it is human nature to hide our sins or overlook our mistakes. It sure is hard to learn from mistakes we refuse to take responsibility for. Really, what good is a mistake if it doesn’t teach us something? To learn from errors, we need to admit it, confess it, analyze it, and make adjustments so that it doesn’t happen again. Everybody makes mistakes, but only fools repeat them.
“A murderer’s tormented conscience will drive him to the grave. Don’t protect him!” (NLT) Proverbs 28: 17
“A man burdened with bloodshed will flee into a pit; Let no one help him.” (NKJV)
“A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies ends up in poverty.” (NLT) Proverbs 28: 18
“Whoever walks blamelessly will be saved, but he who is perverse in his ways will suddenly fall.” (NKJV)
A sinner’s conscience will drive him into either guilt, resulting in repentance, or to death itself because of a refusal to repent. It is no act of kindness to try to make him feel better; the more guilt he feels, the more likely he is to turn to God and repent. If we interfere with the natural consequences of his act, we may make it easier for him to continue in his sin.
More to come on this tomorrow…
