PODCAST

Sovereign

August 10th, 2025

Proverbs 8:12-21.   

This week we have examined earthly authority and our relationship with that authority in light of our relationship with God. We keep in mind that it is God’s grace through Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit that we are even a citizen of the kingdom of heaven. If there are differences between us and our fellow citizens of God’s kingdom, we are called to embrace God’s grace, love as Christ loves, and live guided by the Holy Spirit.

Today’s proverb covers several pieces of wisdom and points to God as the reason “kings reign . . . rulers issue decrees . . . princes govern ” (vv. 15-16). We might be tempted to make a jump from God being the reason authorities govern to authorities being worthy of allegiance akin to worship, but we need to proceed with caution. God claims, prior to the remarks about authorities, that “Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have insight, I have power” (v. 14). Verse 17 states, “I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.”

The declaration about governing authorities is snuggly sandwiched between God’s sound judgment and God’s love for those who love God. This is no coincidence. God’s counsel and loving God are essential to good, earthly authority. Focus on loving God. The other bits will fall into place.

Author: Stefanie Hendrickson