A Society of Ease (Proverbs 31:13–22; Phil. 2:12–18)

"She … willingly works with her hands" (Prov. 31:13).

The proliferation of technology in our society has created an increased love of relaxation. Leisure has replaced hard work as the goal of life. We work so we can rest, rather than resting so we can work. It is helpful for all of us to realize how the culture and its attitude toward work has affected us. Work has become the enemy, and true happiness is attained only when you get work out of the way and live in ease and relaxation.

Such an attitude toward work can have devastating consequences not only in the practical sphere of life but in the spiritual. Just as we become idle and negligent in our domestic and vocational responsibilities, we can become slack in our spiritual responsibilities—our duties to serve others, to pray, to worship, to study the Scripture, to strive with our flesh, and to overcome sin. It is not uncommon for some Christians to avoid all reference to work in relation to spiritual matters. Many claim that such attitudes toward work in religion stem from a fear of legalism—we want to maintain that all is of grace, that we cannot earn our salvation through works. But, considering the days in which we live, our reasons for avoiding work in spiritual matters are not always so noble. Often, it’s due more to laziness and idleness than doctrinal integrity. The Scriptures exhort us to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling,” “to run the race set before you,” “to take heaven by storm.” The Scriptures do not shy away from the need to be diligent and industrious in our Christianity, and neither should we.

The Proverbs 31 woman is an illuminating portrait of diligence and industry. She is hard at work in every sphere of life. She earns money for her family, she clothes her children, she provides food, “her arms are strong for her tasks.” She wakes before dawn and goes to sleep well after dark. She does not fear when winter comes because she has made the necessary preparations. Can you say the same about your life in practical as well as spiritual matters? If not, take a serious look at how your thinking has been affected by the culture’s obsession with leisure. Meditate on the Word of God and renew your mind by its transforming power, that you might become a diligent and industrious servant in the kingdom of God.

Read 2 Peter 1. How does Peter describe the Christian life? What makes the Christian life difficult? Have you grown complacent in your struggle against sin and in your earnestness to obey the Lord in everything? If so, confess your complacency to God today and ask Him to renew your zeal and vigor to serve Him.

A Husband’s Trust (Proverbs 31:10–12; Luke 9:23)

"She does him good and not evil all the days of her life" (Prov. 31:12).

The woman who has gained her husband’s trust does not abuse his confidence but continues to prove that his trust is well-placed. He trusts her because “she does him good and not evil all the days of her life.” In the same way, let all Christians elevate the name of Christ in this world by doing Him good, not harm, all their days. Let their daily frame be in subjection to Him and their daily concern be the executing of His interests. The noble wife is more concerned about her husband than she is about herself. Likewise, subjection and self-denial are marks of the bride of Christ. She is busy about her husband’s business and denies herself that He might be exalted before a corrupt generation.

Think of all the examples in Scripture of those who denied themselves that the honor of God might be lifted up. Noah faced the scorn of a wicked generation as he carried out God’s order to build the ark. Abraham placed his own son on the altar rather than disobey God’s commands. David suffered the persecution of Saul. The prophets faced the threats of a rebellious nation. Mary risked dishonor and loss of reputation. The disciples gave up everything, even their own lives, to follow Jesus. All these saints loved their Lord more than themselves. They sought to bring Him good, not harm, all their days. While none of them were perfect—many examples can be given of ways in which they brought shame upon the name of God—the intent of their hearts and the prevailing principle of their lives were to honor the Lord, to carry out His interests, and to sacrifice their comforts for Him.

Those who would emulate the saints of Scripture, as well as those saints throughout history who put the interests of Christ above their own, will find their relationship with Christ deepened. They will eagerly use their talents in wise and industrious ways, and one day they will receive the praise, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” They will use their time with expediency and live in a manner worthy of those who are called to be the bride of Christ. Like the wise virgins, their lamps will be filled when the bridegroom arrives, and they will go with Him to the wedding banquet where they will feast for an eternity.

If Christ were to return today, would He find you busy about His interests? Or would He find you entrenched in the things of this world, giving no thought to His ways or His purposes for your life? Before you begin the day, ask God to help you to know His will and to give you the grace to follow His will in everything that you do.

The Bride of Christ (Proverbs 31:10–31)

"Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies" (Prov. 31:10).

As Christians continue to put on the righteous robe of the Lord Jesus Christ and grow in wisdom, their inward beauty and honor will pierce through to shine more brightly in a dark and sinful world. It is fitting that we conclude our study of Proverbs by examining the qualities of a noble wife delineated in Proverbs 31. While this passage is a picture of matronly virtue, we will apply this portrait more broadly to that of the bride of Christ.

Like the noble wife of Proverbs 31, the church of Christ is worth far more than rubies. The nobility of her new birth, the glory of her adoption, and the honor of her marriage to the Son of God adorn her with a beauty that exceeds anything of this world. Like Rebekah, she is more lovely than all the foreign women of Canaan. Abraham did not choose a wife for his son from the foreigners who lived nearby, but sent for a wife in a distant land, a wife selected from among his own. Likewise, Christ has passed over many to choose you to be His bride, to bring you into His inheritance, to lavish upon you the delicacies of Canaan, to make you a part of the family of promise, and to love you with an everlasting love.

Those who are promised by the Father to Christ have been elevated from a world of shame to a kingdom of glory. God looks upon His chosen people as they are in Christ—worthy of His kingdom and of more value than all the riches of this world. So great is His love for the church, that Christ gave up His life for her. He humbled Himself, put Himself under the law, suffered the sorrows of this life, and died on a cross. Who, then, can spurn such a great love? In light of the sacrifice and the love of Christ, what Christian can continue to live as a harlot? If you are a Christian, you are the bride of Christ, worth far more than rubies. Live, then, not like a slave but like one who is blessed with all the honor and dignity of Christ. If you are a follower of Christ, live not like a pauper but like a queen who is crowned with glory and dressed in the righteousness of her King.

Read Isaiah 62. Does God value the Christian highly? What has He promised to do for His people? If you are a Christian, do you base your value and esteem on what God thinks of you? If not, if you are burdened by your own self-perceptions, or that of others, consider this passage and receive your worthiness from Him.

The Good Shepherd (John 10)

“I am the good shepherd; I know My sheep and am known by My own” (John 10:14).

Whenever anyone comes face to face with the glory of God, they inevitably respond with fear. Ezekiel and the disciples, Moses, Isaiah, and others who beheld the glory of God all fell on their faces, terrified. The humble shepherds who watched their flocks outside of Bethlehem certainly responded in this way when suddenly the glory of the Lord shone about them. They had never seen anything so glorious, so terrifying. They fell prostrate “sore afraid.” But God did not leave them trembling. The angel said, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” In the same way, God does not leave us in a state of terror, but He comforts us, cares for us, and fills us with joy. That’s because Christ is our Good Shepherd, the episkopos, or bishop, of our souls.

A bishop is an overseer, one who watches over the flock entrusted to his care. The New Testament church appointed men to be overseers, to care for the people in their congregations, to instruct them, to care for their physical and spiritual needs, and to protect them from the dangers of this world. Throughout history, the church has been blessed with many faithful shepherds. In his journal, David Brainerd describes how he tried to serve faithfully as a shepherd and overseer to the New Jersey Indians in the 1740s. Brainerd was one of the first missionaries to the native tribes in America. He served many difficult years in the wilderness—a lone voice in a dark and idolatrous world. As he proclaimed the Gospel to the various tribes, he helped them mend their marriages, pay their debts to the white people who plotted to take their lands, and overcome the drunkenness and habit of theft that was then so prevalent. Brainerd sacrificed his health, and eventually his life, for the Indian tribes to whom he ministered. He was concerned about every aspect of their lives, and to this day, Brainerd is honored as a faithful shepherd to his flock.

Christ is our Great Shepherd, the One who watches over us, protects us, and nurtures us. He carries us home when we wander. He kills the wolves who sneak into the fold. He heals our diseases, and leads us into green pastures. Not one of His flock will ever be lost. That is our comfort and our everlasting joy.

Pray today for your pastors, elders, and deacons. Write your pastor (and associate pastors) a letter encouraging them and thanking them for faithfully watching over their flock, and caring for you. If you have problems with your pastor, pray that God will help him to be a faithful shepherd.

The Glory of the Lord (Exodus 33)

“Please, show me Your glory” (Ex. 33:18).

The Hebrew word for glory is kabod, which means heaviness or weightiness, implying importance. Of all the important leaders who have ever walked the face of this earth, only Christ, the King of kings, is truly glorious. Not Solomon, not Nebuchadnezzar, not Caesar at the height of his splendor can compare with the glory of the Lord. Only God’s glory is pure and holy.

The Scriptures associate the glory of the Lord with fire and light—representations of purity. When God led His people out of Egypt, He manifested His presence among them by a cloud, the Shekinah cloud: “Then the cloud covered the tabernacle of meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.… For the cloud of the LORD was above the tabernacle by day, and fire was over it by night …” (Ex. 40:34–38). God’s glory is described as a “consuming fire” (Ex. 24:17; Isa. 66:15). Ezekiel witnessed the glory of God as flashing lightning and brilliant light: “The center of the fire looked like glowing metal, and in the fire was what looked like four living creatures.… and high above on the throne was a figure like that of a man. I saw that from what appeared to be His waist up He looked like glowing metal, as if full of fire, and that from there down He looked like fire; and brilliant light surrounded Him. Like the appearance of a rainbow in the clouds on a rain day, so was the radiance around Him. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord” (Ezek. 1:4ff). What on earth can compare to the glory and splendor of the Lord? Who can question the majesty and power of Christ?

The disciples peered behind the veil that cloaked Christ’s glory on earth. For just a moment, three of them beheld the purity and brilliance of His power (Matt. 17). Like Ezekiel, they fell on their faces, terrified. Yet, like Moses they needed to behold God’s glory. Only when we see Christ for who He is, only when we see His glory with the eye of faith, will we find peace, fulfillment, and strength, for man was made to live in the presence of God. Without it, he is in darkness, but through faith in Christ, the light of God shines into our hearts, transforming us into the likeness of Christ, that we can behold His glory and rejoice.

Read Exodus 33:12–23. What is the relationship between God’s presence and our rest? What does this imply about those who do not live in God’s presence? Why did God place Moses in the cleft? Why did Moses need this covering? Our covering is Christ. Do you desire to see the glory of God? If so, are you covered by Jesus Christ?

Jesus Is Lord (Philippians 2:1-11)

"… Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Phil. 2:11).

Because of the preeminence of Christ as the Suffering Servant and High Priest of our souls in the Gospel, sometimes the kingship of Christ can be seriously ignored. Some branches of the church even assert that a person can embrace Christ as priest, as the sacrificial Lamb, but not own Him as Lord and King of their souls. Such ideas have caused great controversy in the modern church—commonly known as the lordship salvation controversy. Those who maintain such an errant view of Christ’s lordship do serious injustice to His person. They embrace His sacrificial work, but they do not have faith in His person as prophet, priest, and king.

Jesus does not call us to put our faith only in what He has done, but in who He is. This was the issue He kept driving home to the people of Israel. He asked the Pharisees, “Who is the Christ?” He asked the disciples, “Who do the people say that I, Son of Man, am?” (Matt. 16:13). He was constantly bringing His identity to the foreground of man’s understanding of God’s purposes for the Messiah. Integral to a proper understanding of the person of Christ is His identity as Lord and King.

I began these studies on the majesty of Christ on the heels of Solomon’s teaching on government. We did this to emphasize that the ultimate leader, the ultimate ruler of our lives, is not an earthly official, but Christ Jesus our Lord. We do not have the option to embrace His sacrificial work and reject Him as Lord. We are called to live as subjects of the kingdom and to submit every area of our lives to the King.

The title Lord is the second most frequently used title in the New Testament to identify Jesus. The Greek term Kurios is a title designating absolute authority and power. Adonai is a corollary Hebrew term meaning “the one who is absolutely sovereign” (Psalm 8:1). Jesus Christ is Lord, Kurios, Adonai, absolute sovereign over the universe, the church, the nations, and our lives. He is our King and our Lord whom God exalted to the highest place “… that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Phil. 2:9–11).

Read 2 Corinthians 4:1–6 and Colossians 1:15–23. What does Paul say about the authority of Christ in your life? How should you live under the supremacy and Lordship of Christ? In what ways do you live as if Christ was not Lord over your life? Confess those sins to Him today, and take deliberate steps to refrain from those sins.

The Suffering Servant (Revelation 5)

“Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain” (Rev. 5:12).

Shortly after Peter’s confession of Jesus’s true identity, he tries to prevent Jesus from going to Jerusalem. Peter still had false ideas clouding his judgment about the Messiah. He expected a king, not a suffering servant who would die on a cross. Clearly, the disciples were not insulated from the popular notions concerning the Messiah’s mission. Despite Jesus’s teaching to the contrary, they expected a political leader to usher in a temporal kingdom for Israel and relieve the oppressive burden of Roman rule. As the disciples were still trying to sort out the Messiah’s purpose, Jesus prepared for the inevitable death that awaited Him at Calvary.

The work of the Messiah should not have been a total surprise to the Jewish people. Isaiah described the Messiah as a suffering servant in striking detail. In Isaiah 53, the prophet tells how Christ “was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities.… the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.… It was the Lord’s will to crush Him and cause Him to suffer.” But the mystery of the work of the Messiah is that through this suffering, He would be exalted: “After the suffering of His soul, He will see the light of life and be satisfied … Therefore I will give Him a portion among the great, and He will divide the spoils with the strong because He poured out His life unto death.”

The glory of the Messiah ascended from the ashes of suffering and death. The Jewish people expected the Lion of Judah, but they did not realize that the Lion would be a Lamb. In John’s vision (Rev. 5), the elders proclaimed that only the Lion of Judah was worthy to break the scroll, but when John looked toward the throne, the eyes that gazed back at him were not those of a lion, but of a slaughtered lamb. Adam’s race needed more than a king, it needed a mediator, a crucified Lamb, to bring them into the heavenly kingdom. God sent His Son to overcome the enmity of our hearts. He sent a Lamb who would die on a cross and then rise again in glory. “With Your blood You purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.… Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain!”

Read Romans 8:17–27. Just as Christ suffered, Christians can expect to suffer. How does Paul comfort God’s children as they face suffering? How was Jesus rewarded for His suffering? Will you share that reward? If you are suffering, hope in Christ and be comforted that one day the suffering will end and you will share in His glory.

Greater Than Moses (Deuteronomy 18)

"I will raise up for them a Prophet like you from among their brethren" (Deut. 18:18).

The popular conception of the coming Messiah within first-century Judaism bore little resemblance to Jesus Christ. An inadequate concept of Messianic prophesies trapped many Jews into expecting a political leader who would free them from Roman rule just as Moses had led the people out of Egyptian bondage. When Jesus first arrived on the scene, many people hoped He was the Christ who would restore the kingdom of Israel to its former dominance. As it became more evident that Jesus did not intend to be the revolutionary the zealots hoped for, many no longer considered Him to be the Messiah, but only a prophet. They did not understand the true mission of the Messiah or His true nature. They failed to realize that the Messiah would be a prophet like Moses, but He would be one who would lead His people from the bondage of sin, not the bondage of the Romans. He would be a prophet who would proclaim the coming of the kingdom, not only to the Jews, but to all nations.

Controversy over the identity of Christ has only increased. Many people will say they consider Jesus a good teacher or prophet, but they deny Him as Messiah. “People often say about Him: ‘I’m ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher, but I don’t accept His claim to be God,’ ” C.S. Lewis wrote. “That is the one thing we must not say. A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would either be a lunatic—on the level with the man who says he is a poached egg—or else He would be the devil of hell. You must make your choice. Either this man was, and is, the Son of God; or else a mad-man or something worse. You can shut Him up for a fool, or you can spit at Him and kill him as a demon; or you can fall at His feet and call Him Lord and God. But let us not come with any patronizing nonsense about His being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to.” What He did intend was to proclaim the coming of the kingdom—a kingdom secured by His power and established by His righteousness. Jesus Christ came as one greater than Moses to set His people free and give them eternal life. And Jesus will one day return in power and righteousness. Then all will recognize that He was, and is, the Messiah.

In your own words, explain why Jesus was more than just a “good teacher.” Explore Jesus’s own claims about His divinity and Messiahship, and use these to explain why He could not have been simply a prophet. Do you think the choices C.S. Lewis gives concerning Christ are valid? Use Lewis’s argument to strengthen your own.

The Son of Man (Daniel 7)

"And behold, One like the Son of Man …" (Dan. 7:13).

No matter what political party or ruler might be in control, the scepter of power firmly resides in the hand of our mighty Lord. Jesus Christ rules. He alone has been given dominion over all nations. Like His robe that fills the temple, His majesty fills the earth, and one day every knee will bow before His throne.

For the next several blog posts, we will explore the theme of the majesty of Christ. Knowledge of His kingship will ground our confidence in His sovereignty and keep us steady as we live amid unrighteousness. As we come into a deeper awareness of who Christ is and of His authority, our faith will be strengthened and our service to the King enlarged. While the world goes about its business, ignoring the sovereign rule of Christ, the Church must remain steadfast in its duty to the King—to honor and obey Him, to trust in His protection, to live as subjects of the kingdom, and to proclaim His gospel to a rebellious world.

Like people today, many refused to recognize the kingship and authority of Christ when He lived on earth. They were blinded by their own delusions and sin. Jesus sought to dispel such delusions when He asked, “Who do the people say the Son of Man is?” In asking the question, Jesus used the title “Son of Man” to identify Himself, thus indicating His true nature.

Many assume “Son of Man” refers only to Jesus’s humanity, but it means much more. This was Jesus’s favorite self-designation. The “Son of Man” carries with it profound implications. It refers to the night vision of Daniel 7 when he saw, “One like the Son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven.… to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away.…” As you can see, the true meaning of “Son of Man” is significant because it refers to one who is of divine origin and who has eternal authority over all things. The people of Jesus’ day missed the reality of who He was, and, as a result, they did not recognize His authority. In the same way, unbelievers today refuse to give Christ the glory and honor He is due because they cannot grasp the reality of His divine nature and sovereign authority.

How has the realization that Christ is the Son of Man, that the Messiah is God Himself, changed your response to His commands? Do you recognize His authority over you? Do you obey Christ as a subject obeys his king? Do you take God’s law and His commands in Scripture seriously? If not, confess it to Him today.

God Is in Control (Proverbs 21:1; 24:19–21; 29:26)

"The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD" (Prov. 21:1).

Proverbs 21:1 shines like a beacon of hope amid dark times. We live in a country that, for the most part, has turned its back on God. Even the most conservative leaders often fail to glorify God when they govern. While foolish statesmanship and immorality should grieve all Christians, such things should not drive us to despair, for our hope is not in leaders or political parties, but in God.

“The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD; He directs it like a watercourse wherever He pleases.” Changing the course of a nation is like pushing back the ocean tide or changing the course of a river. It can’t be done by human efforts, but with God nothing is impossible. Charles Bridges reminds us of numerous biblical testimonies of God’s control over national affairs: “Nehemiah fully acknowledged this prerogative, when, having a favor to ask of the king, he ‘prayed unto the God of heaven.’ (Neh. 2:4, 5). And indeed Scripture’s witness is abundant. Abimelech’s heart was in the hand of the Lord for good (Gen. 20:6). Pharaoh’s heart was turned towards Joseph (Gen. 41:37–45). The Babylonian monarchs showed kindness to Daniel and his captive brethren. The Persian monarchs assisted in the building of the temple. The hearts of wicked kings are alike in the hand of the Lord; yet He has no part in their wickedness. The hatred of Pharaoh; the ambition of Sennacherib and Nebuchadnezzar, were His instruments for His own purposes. Ahab’s murderous heart was restrained, and even made to accomplish the downfall of Baal (1 Kings 18:10, 40). The counsels of the kings of the earth against Christ were under Divine control (Acts 4:25–28). Thus does ‘the wrath of man praise Him; and the remainder He restrains.’ Thus an Almighty agency is visible by its effects in the minutest affairs. Ahasuerus’s sleepless nights (Esth. 6:1, 2); Nebuchadnezzar’s divination; the appointment of the year of general taxation (Luke 2:1)—these seemingly unimportant events were turning points in the dispensations of God, fraught with immensely momentous results.”

Such testimonies remind us to lift our heads and trust in our sovereign Lord. He alone reigns over all things. When we are tempted to despair, let us pray like Nehemiah to the God of heaven and trust that even in the darkest hours, He is in control.

What is one thing about our nation that has you deeply troubled and causes you to be anxious whenever you think about it? Lay that before the Lord today. Tell Him your fears, your concerns, your grief. Pray that God comforts you and assures you that He is in control of this situation. Pray for a deeper trust in God’s plan.

Wise Counselors (Proverbs 11:14; 16:10–13; 28:2)

"Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety" (Prov. 11:14).

Charles Bridges lived at a time when much of England still basked in the glow of the Reformation, but, like so many epochs in history, its influence had already begun to wane—at least among the nobility. Pastors like Bridges were greatly concerned by the injustices inflicted by the monarchy and the continued toleration of Roman Catholic doctrine by the state church. Bridges longed for a sovereign who would serve God and surround the throne with godly and righteous counselors. He mentions in his commentary on Proverbs 28:2 one man, named Mr. Pitt, who evidently tried to turn the political tide for the good. He praises this leader, saying he is one “of surpassing power and grasp of mind; evidently raised up at a grand national crisis for the prolongation of the state. Such men guided by Christian principle, we would pray might be the counselors of our beloved Sovereign, that her state be prolonged ‘in all godly quietness.’ ” Bridges understood how important it is for leaders to surround themselves with wise counselors. Like David and Solomon, like Pharaoh who benefited from the wise counsel of Joseph, leaders who seek the counsel of godly people will protect their kingdom, and their country, from the wickedness.

History is replete with examples of the need for wise counselors to advise national leaders. One ancient ruler, despite his questionable methods, grasped the importance of gathering trusted men to himself. Bridges relates the account in his commentary on Proverbs 16:10–13: “Constantius, the father of Constantine, tested the character of his Christian servants by the imperative command to offer sacrifices to his gods. Some sunk under the trial. Those, who had really ‘bought the truth,’ would sell it for no price. They were inflexible. [Instead of banishing the disobedient, Constantius exiled those who complied with the decree.] The true confessors he entrusted with the care of his own person. ‘These men’—said he—‘I can trust. I value them more than all my treasures.’ This was sound judgment. For who are so likely to be faithful to their king, as those that have proved themselves faithful to their God?” A leader who would be a blessing to his people surrounds himself with those endowed with the wisdom of God and committed to His purposes.

Read 1 Kings 12:1–24. Who were the two groups Rehoboam went to for counsel? Which group did he listen to? Why do you think he listened to the young men instead of the old? What were the consequences? Who do you go to for counsel? The next time you need advice, seek out the counsel of an older, more mature person.

The Wicked in Power (Proverbs 28:15, 28; 29:12)

"When the wicked arise, men hide themselves" (Prov. 28:28).

The character of a leader greatly impacts a nation for the better or the worse. His or her values will determine his selection of ambassadors, ministers, advisors, and cabinet members. These will in turn greatly influence policies and programs that will affect the entire nation.

Despite what some people may say, character does matter—especially in a leader. A nation cannot go unaffected when its leaders are ungodly and profligate. “The influence of the ruler’s personal character upon his people involves a fearful responsibility,” Bridges wrote. “A wicked prince makes a wicked people. In his more immediate sphere, if he hearkens to lies, contrary to the laws of God and of charity; he will ever want those about him ready to minister to his folly. ‘Lies will be told to those that are ready to hearken to them.’ Envy, ambition, malice, self-interest, will always be at hand for prejudice and scandal. 

The credulous ruler becomes the tool of all manner of wickedness. His corruption pushes away the godly from his presence; and all his servants are wicked. Exceptions there are to this maxim (as Obadiah in the court of Ahab, Ebedmelech in the service of Zedekiah, Daniel in Nebuchadnezzar’s court). But this is the natural tendency, the general result, to his own disgrace and ruin. If he would therefore rule in uprightness and in the fear of God; instead of lending himself to detraction or flattery, he must carefully close his ears against doubtful characters, lest he should countenance wicked servants, and discourage those, that will boldly speak the truth.”

When you vote for leaders, do you take stock of their character? Are they people who will stand by the truth no matter how much political backlash may ensue? Are they people of integrity? Do they honor God and walk according to His ways? Some may think it doesn’t matter if a leader believes in God or not. But if a person’s beliefs determine character (and they do), how can an atheist be trusted to uphold the principles of religion or the moral righteousness that exalts a nation? How can a man or woman who rejects God or who lives in an ungodly manner take seriously the responsibility to govern with justice and to honor God? Only those who serve God will serve a nation honorably and govern in righteousness.

If you don’t know the names of your U.S. and state representatives and senators, find out who they are and write their names on an index card. Put it in a prominent place in your home to help you remember to pray for them. Pray today for your president (if you live in another country, for your leaders) and your congressmen.

Turn and Honor God (Proverbs 11:10, 11; 14:34; 28:12)

"Righteousness exalts a nation" (Prov. 14:34).

in the 1990s, America witnessed a virtual revolution. Forty years of Democratic control of Congress ended as the GOP bulldozed through national elections. Democratic governors, senators, and representatives were sent packing as Republicans moved into Washington. Many Christians breathed a sigh of relief, naively believing the promised welfare reform, lower taxes, and less government is all it will take to get our nation back on track. But fiscal responsibility alone will not bring glory to a nation that has turned its back on God.

Solomon reminds us that a nation can only be restored through righteousness. “Not the wisdom of policy, extent of empire, splendid conquests, flourishing trade, abundant resources—but righteousness—exalts a nation,” Bridges writes. “Righteousness is both ‘the prop to make it subsist firm in itself, and a crown to render it glorious in the eyes of others.’ Greece in her proud science; Rome in the zenith of her glory—both were sunk in the lowest depths of moral degradation.” When a nation refuses to recognize the authority of God and to honor His law, when children are raised according to their own whims rather than by the principles of Scripture, when a nation profanes the Sabbath, when Christianity has been stricken from the curriculum of educational institutions, when prayer and morality are held in disdain, all the fiscal responsibility in the world will not bring dignity to a profligate nation.

The pagan politician Machiavelli saw the need for a nation to honor God: “Those princes and commonwealths, who would keep their government entire and uncorrupt, are, above all things, to have a care of religion and its ceremonies, and preserve them in due veneration. For in the whole world there is not a greater sign of imminent ruin, than when God and his worship are despised.” Even Plato recognized moral righteousness as the pillar and support of the city (de Legibus, VI).

As we seek governmental reform, let us not put our hope in those things that fail to bring a nation lasting glory, but let us remember that only through righteousness is a nation exalted. Pray for revival to sweep our country and for our nation to repent, honor God, and seek His righteousness.

A country cannot institutionalize righteousness. It must flow from the principles of individuals. How can the principles of people change? Is true revival contained within a Christian community, or will it necessarily affect the nation as a whole? Are you praying for revival? Pray today that God’s Spirit will open the hearts of the lost.

A Decline of Justice (Proverbs 17:15; 18:5; 28:4)

"He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, Both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD." (Prov. 17:15)

Years ago, the O.J. Simpson trial had everything a television producer could want—a star-studded cast, sex, drugs, spousal abuse, jealousy, racial tension, flashy defense lawyers, and dubious jurors. This mix of intrigue and scandal captivated the country as millions wait impatiently for the verdict. But the guilt or innocence of one man was not all that is at stake in this trial—so was the integrity of the American judicial system. Many in our country believe our court system has become woefully negligent in its duty to punish the wicked and acquit the innocent. Unfortunately, a sensational trial such as the O.J. Simpson fiasco only confirmed our fears that the judicial system might be in decline.

The Simpson trial and the verdict caused many to doubt whether our courts were fulfilling their divinely ordained role—especially when it came on the heels of cases such as the Menendez and Bobbitt debacles. Trials such as those—and numerous others that fill our newspapers weekly—bring to mind the proverb “Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent—the LORD detests them both.” Evidence of a society in decline is the corruption of its judicial system. When the crimes of the wicked are justified and the innocent are condemned, something is amiss in the foundation of that society.

It is not insignificant in an age when God has been thrown out of the government and the courts, when absolute standards of right and wrong are rejected as out-of-date, and when relativism reigns, that our judicial system has witnessed marked decay. More than anything it represents a provocative abuse of God’s authority. “The judge or magistrate ‘is a minister of God for good’ (Rom. 8:4),” Bridges wrote. “The appeal is to him for justice, as the Representative of God (Deut. 25:1). If the great Judge ‘loves righteousness and hates iniquity,’ this unrighteousness justifying the wicked must be abomination to Him.… But in a world, of which Satan is the ‘god and the prince,’ injustice is a natural principle of administration.” Only when individuals once again submit to the authority of God and the standards He has set for judicial administration will a society begin to heal the rifts created by injustice.

Look through a newspaper today or watch a news broadcast. Note any trials that are going on or any laws that are being written. Pray specifically that justice will be maintained in those situations, and that men and women in authority will fulfill their roles according to the righteousness of God.

Justice for the Poor (Proverbs 22:16, 22; 28:3; 29:7, 14)

"The righteous considers the cause of the poor" (Prov. 29:7).

The story of the fiery deaths of Latimer and Ridley during the reign of Queen Mary is well known among Protestant churches. These two non-conformist pastors paid the ultimate price for refusing to adhere to the doctrinal dictates of the throne. What is not as commonly known is Ridley’s burden for the poor—even during the final moments of his life. As the fire burned about him, he begged the queen to allow the poor men in his bishopric to keep their leases, which would become void by his death.

Ridley served as a model of Proverbs 29:7, “The righteous considers the cause of the poor.” Even as he faced an excruciating death, Ridley was concerned about “justice for the poor.” He knew the kind of oppression that awaited those in his bishopric. He anticipated the cruel scepter that would beat the backs of those who could not speak for themselves, so he spoke on their behalf.

The United States is in the midst of a political revolution. It has, in many respects, turned into a welfare state. Many Christians have become involved in the political system to try to tear down the structures of socialism that underpin the welfare machine. But in our zeal to restore freedom and individual responsibility, let us not forget our responsibility to care for the needs of the poor. Solomon wisely taught his son, who would be king, that God would judge any community that neglected the poor. Solomon taught that it is the Christian’s duty to speak for the defenseless, to oppose oppression of the poor, and to care for their needs.

While it is not right for the state to reach into the pockets of hard-working Americans and redistribute their wealth to the “poor,” it is the duty of every Christian to reach into their own pockets and help the poor. The family and the church should carry out this responsibility faithfully. Whether or not the welfare system is dismantled, the church and family should resume their God-ordained responsibility to help those burdened by poverty. The state should see to it that the poor are treated fairly in the courts, and Christians should model the spirit of generosity of our Lord, who “though He was rich, yet for our sakes became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich” (2 Cor. 8:9).

This Sunday give some extra money to your benevolence fund at church to help those who are in need in your local body. Also, contact a local ministry to the poor and ask what you can donate that week—food, clothing, household goods. If you have children, get them involved. Set a schedule to help the poor on a regular basis.

Familiarity Breeds Contempt (Proverbs 25:17)

"Seldom set foot in your neighbor’s house" (Prov. 25:17).

“Seldom set foot in your neighbor’s house—too much of you, and he will hate you” could be summed up in the old proverb “Familiarity breeds contempt.” Some people abuse friendships by being a nuisance. They visit at unexpected and inconvenient hours. They call often and want to talk endlessly about nonsensical subjects. Sometimes their dependency extends from the social sphere to the financial. This doesn’t mean we can never go to a friend for help, but to ask often breeds, not compassion, but contempt.

Solomon warned his son against this kind of transgression. While friends should depend upon one another, even the closest friendships can be abused. “Even the closer band of friendship requires its measure of prudent restraint,” Bridges writes. “It is worth all our care to preserve this invaluable blessing from interruption. It is the sweet of life. And yet in this honey, there may be an [excess]. Without mutual respect it may nauseate. Unseasonable interruption to our friend’s time; frequent visits without call or object; interference with his necessary engagements, or family comforts; inconvenient tax of expense—perseverance in this course might produce weariness, if not disgust, or even hatred.”

Bridges mentions the remedy of an overly indulgent friend—respect. Friends must share mutual esteem. If you respect your friend, you will respect their time, their commitments, their possessions. You will not try to monopolize their time, their property, or try their patience. A true friend will be considerate of another’s family and work schedule, prior commitments, and personal space.

If you find yourself encroaching on your friend’s time, consider whether you have neglected your friendship with the Lord. You can never visit God too often. He can meet your needs and dispel your loneliness more than any human friend. “Never can we come to our heavenly Father unseasonably,” Bridges wrote. “His gates are always open … The more frequent the visits, the more welcome, and the more fruitful. What with man would be intrusion, with God is confidence.” The child of God cannot presume upon this gracious privilege, but with “boldness of access” can seek the fellowship and grace of God at all times.

Do you have a friendship that is on the rocks? Could part of the problem be that you have become a nuisance? Do you sense a friend growing distant? Ask that friend if you have been inconsiderate. If someone is being inconsiderate to you, gently tell them. Ask them to give you space so your friendship can flourish.

A Faithful Friend (Proverbs 17:17)

"A friend loves at all times" (Prov. 17:17).

In his allegorical classic, The Pilgrim’s Progress, John Bunyan poignantly portrays the Christian’s long and often lonely journey to the Celestial City. He tells of Christian’s flight from the City of Destruction, his struggle to enter the wicket gate, his conviction at the Interpreter’s House, and his discovery of freedom and forgiveness at the Cross. Once on his Way, Christian encounters tempters of wealth, of self-righteousness, and of sloth. He even engages in a battle with Satan himself. Alone and without the comfort of a friend, Christian plunges his way through the snares and pitfalls of this world. Until at last, God blesses him with a companion to give him comfort along the way and to sharpen him with godly conversation and reproof. Bunyan calls the friend “Faithful.”

Bunyan captured the one attribute that most characterizes a true friend—he is faithful even in the midst of adversity. And do we not see this attribute perfectly portrayed in the person of Christ? He, above all others, is faithful. When we need a friend most, often one is not there. It is the common experience that the company of friends is rich—even carefree—in times of pleasure, but it is when times are difficult that the love of a friend is most meaningful. Are you that kind of friend? Are you like Christ who “loves at all times”? Do you love even when you disagree with your friend? Do you love when others have forsaken your friend? Are you faithful to meet the needs of your friend even when it costs you dearly? Christ is such a friend, and are we not called to be like Christ?

Such a calling is not so heavenly that it transcends the everyday relationships of this world. Instead, it has direct bearing on those relationships. Conformity to Christ means you love the unlovely. Jesus touched the man afflicted by leprosy, he walked among the outcasts and the poor. He fed the hungry and gave sight to the blind. He ate with tax collectors and sinners. Do you strive to be such a friend? Are you willing to remain faithful to your friends, even when the world mocks you, beats you, and threatens you with a horrible death? This was the kind of friend Faithful was to Christian, and this is the kind of friend Christ is to you. Go, then, and do likewise.

Have you snubbed someone because they didn’t measure up, or because they did something you didn’t like? If so, apologize to that friend for your unfaithfulness. Have you been rejected by a friend? Pray about the situation and ask the person to see beyond your faults even as Christ has seen beyond theirs.

The Perfect Friend (Proverbs 18:24; John 13:1–17)

"… there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother" (Prov. 18:24b).

If you do not know how to be a friend, learn from Him who is the perfect friend. Jesus Christ gave His life for the salvation of those who scorned Him, mocked Him, and beat Him with all the hatred of the world. But because He loved His people so much, He suffered the humiliation of this world to provide a way for the lost to be found.

Jesus Christ “is a friend to them that have no other friend; to those who have been His bitterest enemies,” Bridges wrote, “a friend who abides, when all others have passed away. Mark Him as a present friend, known and tried, able to enter into all that most deeply affects us; in temptation opening, when needed, ‘a way of escape;’ in affliction cheering with the Divine Comforter; ‘in sickness making our bed;’ in death sustaining us by ‘His rod and staff;’ in eternity ‘receiving us to Himself.’ ”

The friendship of Christ is not earned. He loves us even when we fail to return that love. His love perseveres despite our sin and over-looks our folly. He loves with an everlasting, faithful, and tender love. What stronger proof is there of our depravity than for us to reject such a friend? While we desperately need Him, not only as our example, but as our Savior, we would have nothing to do with Him.

In times of sorrow, grief, and pain, what earthly friend can provide the comfort Christ provides? When the crisis demands more than the inadequate and temporary salves of this world; when we lie gasping on the edge of time between this world and the next, looking back with regret and forward with fear; when the faces of friends appear helpless about us; then, more than ever, do we need a friend that sticks closer than a brother. When we face the judgment of God, when eternity spreads before us, when we finally approach a divided road—one leading to eternal bliss, the other to eternal torment—then great is our need of Christ. Only He can be the friend who can carry us through the veil of death, speak for us on the day of judgment, and fill us with joy for eternity. This friend, who humbled Himself, suffered the trials of this life, died on a cross in shame and humiliation—this is the friend we need to fill our lonely lives and teach us to love others, even as He has loved us.

Ask your pastor or an elder if there is anyone in the church who seems to be lonely, or is going through a difficult time and needs a friend. Pray about whether this is someone to whom God wants you to minister. Think of ways you can be a friend to that person. Give them a call, make them dinner, invite them for a Sunday visit, etc.

The Key to Friendship (Proverbs 18:24; Ruth 1:1–17)

"A man who has friends must himself be friendly" (Prov. 18:24a).

The NIV and NASB translated Proverbs 18:24 as “a man of many companions may come to ruin” and “a man of many friends comes to ruin.” But the King James translates it differently: “A man that hath friends must show himself friendly.” The former translations teach against an excess of friends in the pursuit of popularity. The latter teaches that if a person wants friends he must be willing to be a friend. While the accuracy of the King James translation of this verse might be debatable, the concept it conveys is true. If you want true friends, you must be willing to sacrifice your time, your interests, your concerns, your agenda for another person. You must be willing to love.

How many times has the complaint “I don’t have any friends” passed over your lips or crossed your mind? It would probably be safe to say many people have entertained such a thought at one time or another. Sometimes the complaint is legitimate. One might live in an isolated place where a friend is impossible to find. Or one might live in an area where there are plenty of people, but no Christians with whom one can share sweet fellowship. But, more often than not, the root of loneliness is one’s own selfishness. If you are not willing to love someone else, to spend time developing a relationship, to put another’s concerns above your own, to give of yourself, you might very well find yourself friendless.

While friendship cannot be forced, it does take work—just like any relationship. At the heart of that hard work, there must be love and a common union in Christ. Without these two principles, the foundation of a true friendship can never be laid. Jonathan was committed to David because he loved him, and they shared the same devotion to the God of Israel. Ruth loved Naomi and gave up her home and her gods to go with Naomi and worship her God. Both Jonathan and Ruth were willing to sacrifice their comfort, their homes, even their lives for a beloved friend. Are you willing to invest yourself in the life of someone else? Are you willing to be a Jonathan or a Ruth? If not, you may have a number of acquaintances, but it is unlikely that you will ever cherish the blessing of a true and loving friendship.

Are you willing to sacrifice your own time and agenda for another and to be a friend? If you are lonely, maybe the problem is your unwillingness to be a friend. Ask God to help you be a good friend. Think of someone in your church to whom you can be a friend. Ask that person to lunch or over for dinner sometime this week.

Iron Sharpens Iron (Proverbs 27:17; Eccl. 4:9–12; 10:10)

"As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend" (Prov. 27:17).

“Man was framed not for solitude, but for society,” wrote Charles Bridges. “It is only as a social being, that his powers and affections are fully expanded.” In the Proverbs, Solomon gives much advice about man in society. In particular, he has a lot to say about friendship. We looked at some of Solomon’s counsel on this subject when we studied his advice to the young. We studied Solomon’s warnings against wicked companions, but no where does he tell us to avoid people altogether. He only sets the parameters of social interaction. Like Bridges said, man is made for society. While we should be cautious in choosing our friends, we should never recede into a cocoon of anti-social sentiment.

When God created Adam, he said, “It is not good that man should be alone.” He then created woman, and the building blocks of society were laid. To recede from the society would be contrary to the created order. Of course, we are not to be “friends” with the world, but some Christians go beyond this command and isolate themselves even from Christian brethren. As a result, much of their life stagnates—not only because of loneliness, but because they have forfeited the sharpening benefits a community provides.

Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” We grow and develop through interaction with others. “The communion of saints” is a legacy that we all share. Yet many do not acknowledge the practicality of this article. We do not regard the communion of the saints as a privilege and a responsibility. As Bridges says, we should gladly take up the bond of brotherhood with others because, by this, we will grow. “If a brother seems to walk alone, sharpen his iron by godly communication,” Bridges wrote. “Walk together in mutual ‘consideration’ of each other’s infirmities, trials, and temptations; and mutual ‘provocation’ of each other’s gifts and graces.”

If you have receded from society, either because of failed friendships or fear of others, renew your love for your brothers and sisters in Christ and recognize your need to be a part of other people’s lives. God made you to be a part of society. If you deny this, you will stagnate and, like the neglected iron, you will grow dull and blunt.

How much time have you spent recently with people outside your family? If not much, what were the reasons? Lack of time, initiative, or interest? Choose a person in your church you could minister to or get to know better. Call that person today and set up a visit. If you’ve neglected a friend, call him or her today.

Just Ancient History? (Matthew 24:29-44)

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away” (Matt. 24:35).

One of the biggest obstacles in biblical interpretation is cultural conditioning. How do we account for cultural influences? We must let the Bible speak to us rather than our cultural influences. You accomplish this by implementing rules of interpretation.

First, you need to distinguish between principle and custom. For example, if you considered all of Scripture principally, without cultural significance, Jesus’ mandate to “carry no purse, no bag, no shoes” (Luke 10:4) would leave our minister's barefoot. But not all issues are this easy. Is foot washing a custom or a principle? How about head coverings? 1 Corinthians 11 says a woman should have a sign of authority upon her head. Some say the principle of submission applies but not the outward sign. Others say the sign is still binding but the type of covering changes with the culture.

As you study difficult passages such as this, look for apparent points of custom. Which ones can change with culture? For example, principles of modesty prevail, but local styles of dress may change. But be careful as you study local customs—do not force cultural norms on Christian teaching. Local customs did not always dictate Christian activities. For example, some people think Paul’s exhortation to wear head coverings was a reaction against the temple prostitutes who shaved their heads. But Paul himself does not give this as the reason for his admonition. He appeals to creation, not to the custom of Corinthian harlots, as the basis of his instruction.

Creation ordinances are indicators of transcultural principles. If the passage appeals to creation (or nature) as the basis of its rationale, it transcends culture. Creation mandates, such as marriage, were given to all people. Jesus preached against divorce, not because marriage was a Hebrew custom, but because it was instituted at creation.

Finally, when you are unsure whether a passage is a principle or a custom, it is better to be overly scrupulous and treat it as a principle rather than disregard a principle on the assumption that it is a custom. But use this principle with humility as a last resort—only after much study and prayer. Do not short-circuit such labor with blanket scrupulosity. This would obscure real distinctions between custom and principle and could lead to legalism.

Read Genesis 2:15–25. Why does this marital mandate apply to all people? How would you use this passage to respond to a polygamous culture? Read Matthew 19:3–6. How does Jesus appeal to a creation ordinance to condemn divorce? If marriage applies to all people, does Jesus’ teaching against divorce also apply to all cultures?

Three Useful Cautions (Matthew 5:13-20)

“Unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees …” (Matt. 5:20).

Today we will consider three warnings in the interpretation of Scripture. First, when interpreting Scripture be careful to observe the difference between the spirit and the letter of the law. Beware of the dangers of both legalism and antinomianism. Jesus dealt with this tension in the Sermon on the Mount. He taught that we should not only keep ourselves from committing adultery, but we should not lust. The Pharisees kept the letter of the law by not committing adultery. But they failed to keep the spirit of the law by lusting in their hearts. While adultery and lust are not the same, they are both sins against God and worthy of hellfire. In this sermon, Jesus was concerned with the keeping of the letter of the law and the spirit of the law. He set them not against each other, and neither should we.

Second, be careful when interpreting parables. Jesus used this literary form as a teaching device, not only to make things clear, but also to obscure truths—“He that has ears to hear, let him hear.” This does not mean that the parables are riddles, but it does mean that their truths may be more difficult to grasp than we realize. Also, parables are not always to be taken as allegory, except when indicated by Scripture. The parable of the sower is an allegory—as Jesus indicates by giving the spiritual meaning of each element in the story. But if we did this with every parable, we would run into some problems. A safe rule of thumb is to determine the main points of the parable. Some will only have one, some a few. But do not try to spiritualize every element of every parable.

Finally, be careful with predictive prophecy. Sometimes prophecy is a clear, literal fulfillment, such as the case of the Messiah being born in Bethlehem; other times the fulfillment has a broader scope. When studying prophecy, do so with much care. The result can be very rewarding.

Read Luke 18:1–8. Try to interpret this passage allegorically, assigning every element a direct spiritual parallel. Can it be done? How does Jesus interpret the parable? What is the main point of this story? Read a few other parables in one of the Gospels. Look for the main point of each.