Proverbs 19 & 20: The King
Verse of the Day: (20:2) The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul.
1. The Kind (19:1-29)
The desire of a man is his kindness: and a poor man is better than a liar. (19:22)
It is a masterstroke of King Solomon of Israel, inspired by the Holy Spirit, to write on leadership, as it is paramount for the success of kingdoms, nations, organisations, and particularly, God’s churches. At the end of Solomon’s life, he realised what truly mattered to God and Israel, were his kindness and integrity in his leadership, rather than his fame and fortune. Let us thus as God’s people, and especially, His leaders, look to Jesus, who is the best and excellent example of kindness, mercy and truth. (Luke 6:35-36)
2. The King (20:1-14)
A king that sitteth in the throne of judgment scattereth away all evil with his eyes. (20:8)
The key attribute of a great king and leader is that he is firm yet sweet. Firm enough that his people are fearful of him when they make mistakes, while sweet enough to still love and care for them. During the time of King Solomon, the kings had the authority and power not only to lead and rule, but they are empowered to judge and punish the criminals. Today, some of the political leaders of the world have the authority to lead and judge, while others only have the power to lead, as the judiciary is independent of politics. In the church, the pastors are called to lead as well as discipline their flock according to God’s Word, so that there is peace and order among them. As God’s people, and in particular, His ordained leaders, God warns us never to be under the influence and control of alcohol and vices, but to truly pursue after His holiness and righteousness. Indeed, let us be vigilant as well as diligent in sharing the gospel that only Jesus saves, because He is coming soon, and this time He shall not come to this earth as a Saviour to die on the cruel cross shedding His precious blood for the sins of the whole world, but as the KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS to fight and subdue the devil, his demons and the wicked, and He shall then rule His heavenly kingdom for all eternity. (Revelation 19-22)
3. The Knowledgeable (20:15-30)
There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel. (20:15)
At the end of Solomon’s life, he reckoned that God and His wisdom and knowledge were far more precious than gold, silver, rubies and jewels that he had amassed all his life. Let us therefore grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and His Word, and glorify, magnify and please His holy name now and forever. (2 Peter 3:17-18)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to be a kind and knowledgeable leader for Your praise.
