Solomon talks about corruption in the highest places of government, but he also talks about justice in the highest court of all.
"If a ruler listens to lies, all his officials become wicked." (Proverbs 29:12) The leader sets the example. If he sets a wicked example, his officials will become casual about sin.
"The poor and the oppressor have this in common: The Lord gives sight to the eyes of both." (Proverbs 29:13) In Proverbs 22:2 Solomon reminded us that the Lord is the Maker of both the rich and the poor. Time and again he has counseled us not to treat people differently according to how much money or influence they have. He appears to be saying something like, "We all have the same Maker...and the same Judge. Be careful how you treat your fellow man."
"If a king judges the poor with fairness, his throne will be established forever." (Proverbs 29:14) The wicked may prosper for a time, but as the history of the kings of Israel and Judah shows us, the line of the wicked will eventually be cut off. A day of judgment is coming, even if it seems to us it's slow in coming.
"A rod and a reprimand impart wisdom, but a child left undisciplined disgraces its mother." (Proverbs 29:15) Solomon observes, "What a disgrace it is to be a neglectful parent! It's a huge responsibility to bring up children and you must take it seriously and perform your duties in the fear of the Lord. Your job is to impart wisdom to your children and provide a sound spiritual and moral foundation for their lives. Then they will grow up to be the godly leaders of tomorrow."
"When the wicked thrive, so does sin, but the righteous will see their downfall." (Proverbs 29:16) This verse builds on verses 12 and 14. When the wicked come to power they often influence others to fall in with their schemes. Sin thrives when a wicked ruler reigns. "But never fear," Solomon counsels the righteous, "because their day is coming. Not only will judgment rush in upon them, but the Lord will allow you to see it happen so you will know He is faithful to His promises." We don't know who wrote Psalm 92, but its author assures us that the Lord brings about the downfall of the wicked and allows us to witness it, "Though the wicked spring up like grass and all evildoers flourish, they will be destroyed forever...My eyes have seen the defeat of my adversaries; my ears have heard the rout of my wicked foes." (Psalm 92:7,11) Throughout history, court trials have generally been open to the public. So have sentencing hearings and executions. This is because it's human nature to want to see justice carried out. Allowing the citizens to see justice in action helps the people to feel their elected officials are doing their jobs. Solomon knows we need to know God is carrying out justice too, so he reassures us that not only will God avenge us, but He will make sure we know about it when it happens.
There is corruption in high places in this world. There always has been. There always will be until the Lord Jesus Christ reigns over the earth as our eternal King. But we need not fret, for justice is in high places too...in the highest court there is: the court of our holy God.
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