What timely insight we receive in the series of wise sayings preserved in Proverbs 28:2-5.
28:2 – A wise ruler does not leave any reason for people to desire to rebel and overthrow his leadership.
28:3 – In contrast to a wise ruler who promotes the people’s production and ingenuity, the oppressive ruler prevents people from rising social standing, productivity and wealth. Instead, the oppressive ruler beats the people down like “driving rain” which makes it impossible for the people to flourish, produce and prosper.
28:4 – This verse returns to the rebellion of 28:2. Citizens without wisdom sill not understand the downside of the wicked, oppressive government, because for a brief season they will gain money and status. Because of this and because of their lack of insight those without wisdom will praise the wicked government’s evil philosophy. But, because of insight and in an attempt to avoid the failure of their society the wise will resist the very government and evil philosophy the people with no insight praise.
The difference between wisdom and foolishness, between understanding and ignorance, between insight and deception is the knowledge of the Lord. Those who seek the Lord will have the knowledge to discern, those who reject the Lord will not be able to discern good from evil, right from wrong. This is the central theme of Proverbs:
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” – Proverbs 1:7
The fear of YHWH is the beginning of knowledge, growth and prosperity the:
- Man
- Business owner
- Citizen
- Friend
- Governmental leader
Without the fear of YHWH evil philosophies will lead the man into becoming a wicked business owner, citizen, friend and leader. |
