- I saw all the living who move about under the sun, along with that youth who was to stand in the king’s place. -
Hey, do you remember that post we did on what should rule? It had that picture of a really cool chess piece?
No…. That’s cool…. Your feelings are hurt….
Let me do a quick recap. A king, in ancient times, was something like a drama. He was to “act” out the divine principles that should govern a people.
What were these? The ability to pay attention and see, to heal and conquer with one’s speech, and to follow the ordinances of God.
How do we know if a leader or king is following these principles? I think half the battle is knowing them.
Once you know a king is someone who is supposed to restore with his speech, you can quickly see those who do and those who don’t.
There are absolutely a lot more of the latter.
In the past two verses, we saw the example of a king who was not living these out. How do we know? Because he was neither wise nor would he take advice.
Those who are wise allow the principles of a king, or the principles of “that which should rule,” govern their lives.
Why? Because the principles are the solution to an old puzzle. How should we live?
At any time, you can listen, speak to the issue, and follow the ideal. Your difficulty, no matter it’s triviality, will begin to heal.
This is by definition ancient wisdom. Use it or try to come up with something better.
The king also will not listen to his advisors. What does this mean?
Not listening to those that can see the world accurately and provide checks to your reasoning is akin to plucking out one of your eyes.
The king says, “All that I can see is all there is.” That might be the peak of foolishness.
To allow this type of spirit to rule is to be complicit with it. This is what Alexander Solzhenitsyn outlined about the USSR.
The reason it stood? Because everyman chose to lie rather than speak the truth.
He might know what he is talking about. Guy did write the book, along with others, that is credited with toppling the regime.
So, what should you do when others stay quiet and stand by the ruler who has clearly abdicated the principles of rule?
Search your heart first. Have you disobeyed God to the point that you are blind? Is your moral compass so destroyed that you no longer can determine right from wrong?
If not, then pray to humbly live out his law. Don’t lie. See and speak. Follow God.
If you find yourself unable due to weakness or inexperience, point to and serve those who are. Don’t let bitterness or envy keep you from doing so.
The truth is more important than your ego, and a leader needs many hands.
Serve willingly, for a true king serves you in the same manner.
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