The proverbs have said much about our relationship with the law, with our family and with our friends and neighbors. Solomon, in addition to being the wisest man that ever lived was a king and ruler as well, so the proverbs also say much about government. First and foremost, it is the hearts of the people that determines the kind of rulers they have.
When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers,
but a man of understanding and knowledge maintains order - Proverbs 28:2 NIV
Solomon's proverbs for governing all center around two themes. righteousness and justice.
When the righteous triumph, there is great elation;
but when the wicked rise to power, men go into hiding - Proverbs 28:12 NIV
Evil men do not understand justice,
but those who seek the LORD understand it fully. Proverbs 28:5 NIV
The righteous care about justice for the poor,
but the wicked have no such concern. - Proverbs 29:7 NIV
By justice a king gives a country stability,
but one who is greedy for bribes tears it down. - Prov. 29:4 NIV
Righteousness alone is not enough to provide good government. If we seek the Lord, we will understand and pursue justice as well. Justice is not self centered or self serving. It is not something we demand for ourselves, but something we contend for as far as others are concerned. The prophet Isaiah spoke of the results of justice being driven back. We would do well to listen.
So justice is driven back,
and righteousness stands at a distance;
truth has stumbled in the streets,
honesty cannot enter.
Truth is nowhere to be found,
and whoever shuns evil becomes a prey.
The LORD looked and was displeased
that there was no justice. - Isaiah 59:14-15 NIV
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