The Ruler's Responsibility

For Friday, February 29, 2008
Proverbs 29:12

If a ruler listens to falsehood,
all his officials will be wicked.

If a ruler listens to falsehood, then he is listening to wicked counselors. And if he cannot distinguish the false from the true, then the wicked will rise and multiply. Much depends on the ruler's ability to discern.

Much also rests on the ruler's commitment to the truth. He should not be willing to listen to falsehood. It is one thing to listen to opposing points of view; it is another to listen to those who are wicked and who lie. A ruler should not test himself against such persons. He should ban them from his presence. Much also rests on the ruler's righteousness. His discernment will only be as great as his inner integrity. Likewise, he will be as committed to the truth according to how much he is committed to righteousness.

Much rests on a ruler. As he goes, so does the sphere that is under his control. If he becomes corrupt, so will those who serve him. If he is negligent, even though he may desire righteousness, it will be injustice that prevails through those serving under him. To whom much is given, much is expected because much rests on his shoulders.