Why is fearing the Lord and king crucial according to Proverbs 24:22? Opening the Text “My son, fear the LORD and the king, and do not associate with the rebellious, for their calamity will rise suddenly, and who knows the ruin that both can bring?” (Proverbs 24:21–22) What “Fear” Signifies • Awe-filled reverence that shapes thoughts, choices, and loyalties • Deep respect expressed through willing obedience (Exodus 20:20; Proverbs 1:7) • Recognition that both divine and delegated authority carry real, consequential power (Romans 13:1–4) Why It Matters—Four Key Reasons • Sudden judgment is real – “Their calamity will rise suddenly…” (v. 22) – Judgment arrives without warning; there is no time to pivot once it falls (Proverbs 29:1). • God and the king act in concert – “…and who knows the ruin that both can bring?” (v. 22) – Earthly rulers are instruments of God’s order; disrespecting one is effectively challenging both (1 Peter 2:13–17). • Fear preserves life and stability – Proper reverence deters rebellion that destroys families, churches, and nations (Deuteronomy 6:24). • Fear positions the heart for wisdom and blessing – “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). – Honoring rulers invites favor and peace (1 Timothy 2:2). Consequences of Neglect • Personal ruin—loss of reputation, resources, even life • Communal collapse—revolution, anarchy, divine discipline on the land (2 Chronicles 36:15–17) • Eternal accountability—every word and deed weighed before Christ’s judgment seat (2 Corinthians 5:10) Living It Out Today • Cultivate daily awe of the Lord through Scripture, worship, and obedience. • Pray for leaders and submit to lawful authority unless it commands sin (Acts 5:29). • Refuse alliances that undermine God-ordained order—“do not associate with the rebellious.” • Model respectful speech and conduct, showing the world the safety, wisdom, and blessing found in fearing both the Lord and the king. |
    |