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In saying My son, fear the LORD and the king; Do not associate with those who are given to change (v. 21), Proverbs 24:21-22 emphasizes the importance of having a reverential awe for both God and earthly authority. In Solomon’s time, kings led the nation of Israel, and to honor these rulers was to acknowledge the stability they brought under God’s sovereign guidance. By addressing My son, the proverb takes on a personal, fatherly tone, urging the reader to place God first and also give respect to the powers He has allowed to reign.
The warning not to associate with those who are given to change points to avoiding companions who constantly rebel or seek upheaval. During Israel’s monarchy, impulsive revolts and conspiracies disrupted the nation, leading to discord and sin. Even in later biblical writings, believers are instructed to pray for leaders and not to stir disorder for selfish reasons (1 Timothy 2:1‒2). Such counsel encourages a life of faithfulness both to God’s rightful place and to the channels of human authority He uses.
Continuing, the proverb says For their calamity will rise suddenly, And who knows the ruin that comes from both of them (v. 22). The reference to sudden calamity warns of the inevitable consequences that befall those who rebel against divine and lawful authority. The original audience would have recognized that defying the king or fomenting constant rebellion brought swift judgment. It also implies that no one can truly measure the devastation that results when people reject God’s principles of order and respect.
Interestingly, such a teaching resonates with the New Testament call to submit to the governing authorities (Romans 13:1‒2). This consistency in Scripture points to a timeless truth: disregarding righteous leadership, whether God’s or a king’s, ushers in hardship. Reverent obedience wards off ensuing ruin, while rebellious behavior brings sudden and unpredictable destruction.
Used with permission from TheBibleSays.com.
You can access the original article here:Proverbs 24:21-22 Meaning
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