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The possession of power is one thing; guidance how to use it is another. The sacred writings contemplated your present as well as your future. The present, what is it but the future begun? The future, what is it but the present completed? He will most enjoy the glories of the future whose life of practical holiness best attests the work of grace within him now. The whole power of this verse consists in its unity. It is not, "My son, fear thou the Lord," and then, "My son, fear thou the king"; but, "My son, fear thou the Lord and the king."

I. THE REMARKABLE COMMAND. There is much force in that word, "fear thou." Be unmoved by any motives, or influences, or examples, which may press you to do otherwise than thus. If all around you are wrong, "fear thou." Multitudes do not prove a matter to be right. Act for yourself, and do not fear to stand alone. The command here is, fear both God and the king. You must do the latter if the former be regarded. The fear of God brings with it a principle of obedience, which will influence your conduct in all things. The two things are united morally, and so a true Christian must be a good subject.

II. THE DANGER OF FORGETTING THIS COMMAND. The antithesis is very striking. "Meddle not with them that are given to change." But change must not be confused with progress and improvement. Change means things that imperil primary principles of righteousness.

III. THE RESULTS OF NEGLECTING THIS COMMAND. "Their calamity shall come suddenly." Apply — To serve your generation by the will of God is one of the duties and privileges of your present state. You will do it if you fear "both God and the king."

(George Venables.)

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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: