Proverbs 14:34 Righteousness exalts a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people. I. SOME WRONG ESTIMATES OF NATIONAL GREATNESS. 1. Some say a character for shrewdness. 2. The estimate of a diplomatist would be erroneous. 3. So would that of the social economist. 4. And the warrior. 5. The mere place-hunter. 6. And even the historian. II. THE PROPER ESTIMATE OF NATIONAL GREATNESS. 1. Righteousness supposes individual integrity. The character of a people is determined by its units. Individual integrity means an adherence to truth at all hazards. 2. Righteousness implies a respect for human nature. A recognition of the value of life and the soul. 3. Righteousness farther involves the disposition that concedes to our fellow-men the liberties we enjoy. A policy of monopoly is a policy of unrighteousness. 4. Righteousness requires that political justice be rendered to other nations. 5. It necessitates compliance with the law of progress. And — 6. That we regulate our political action by our duty to God. All political convictions should contain the elements of godliness — piety and patriotism should be joined in holy wedlock. (W. J. Acomb.) Parallel Verses KJV: Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.WEB: Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people. |
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