Religion in National Life
Proverbs 24:21
My son, fear you the LORD and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change:


I. THE PERFECTIONS WHICH RENDER GOD THE OBJECT OF OUR FEAR.

II. THE FEAR OF GOD AND THE KING IS THE BEST PRESERVATIVE AGAINST THE DISTURBERS OF THE PEACE AND QUIET OF ALL GOVERNMENT. It is the foundation of all those virtues from which the peace and happiness of governments must arise, and the most effectual restraint upon the vicious appetites and passions of men. Those in whom this principle rules cannot help looking upon others as the servants of one Sovereign Master, and this consideration must dispose them to have the tenderest regard for their welfare, and tie them together by the strictest bands of fraternal love and friendship. And this principle must naturally contribute to the regulating and composing those disorderly affections and passions which are the great enemies and disturbers of the peace of mankind. Religion fixes that levity and weakness of mind which is so natural to man; it unites his actions and resolutions to one great end, and makes them consistent and regular; and is the best cure of that restlessness of mind which closely adheres to our very natures, and renders us dissatisfied with what we are, or what we at present possess or enjoy; and too often disposes us wantonly to desire changes for the very sake of changing.

(John Wilcox, D.D.)



Parallel Verses
KJV: My son, fear thou the LORD and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change:

WEB: My son, fear Yahweh and the king. Don't join those who are rebellious:




Our Duty to God and Man
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