Proverbs 28:1-3 (ESV)
1 The wicked flee when no one pursues,
but the righteous are bold as a lion.
2 When a land transgresses, it has many rulers,
but with a man of understanding and knowledge,
its stability will long continue.
3 A poor man who oppresses the poor
is a beating rain that leaves no food.
Those who reject the Lord live with paranoia, like people running from an enemy who isn’t there. Those who love God are secure in their relationship with him and live confidently as a result. A nation of people who fear God is more stable than one who bow before none but themselves. When man is viewed as the ultimate authority, each person must watch his own back. The righteous ruler must lead with fairness and a fear of the Lord. Rain should stimulate prosperity and growth, and so should those who lead, but oppressive rulers are as disappointing as rains that devastate. It has been said that because the righteous fear the Lord, they don’t fear people. In contrast, because the wicked don’t fear God, they live in terror before men. If you are right with God today, take courage! He is in charge of every detail of your life. Boldly obey him today.