Text: Proverbs 28:28 (ESV) 

28 When the wicked rise, people hide themselves,

but when they perish, the righteous increase.

WHAT KIND OF LEADERS WE NEED?

When evil people come to power, they drive their subjects to hide (Prov 28:2, 4, 12, 15–16). That might not mean literally that people are cowering underground. But, it can include fear of speaking or expressing. The more a culture becomes wicked, the fewer good examples are seen, so decadence into sin accelerates (Prov 14:34 ; 29:18 ). These selfish and wicked rulers see their roles as an opportunity to obtain power and wealth (Prov 22:16 , 22; 31:9). But, godly leaders seek to honor the Lord and serve their people (Prov 16:12 ; 20:26 ; 29:4). This verse presents a vivid contrast. When those wicked oppressors die, righteous people no longer hide; they increase, literally, "become great." They celebrate the demise of the wicked rulers (Proverbs 11:10 ), and they thrive. They come out of hiding and become prosperous.

Take for example the reign of Ahab and Jezebel in 1 Kings 16:30 –33; 21:25 . They caused God's prophets to go into hiding (1 Kings 18:4). It was a reign of terror. This pattern even is revealed to happen during the end times. The tribulation period will see the rise of two beasts, a political and religious (Rev 13:1–18). Their evil influence would be global, and the beasts would force people to serve them under penalty of death (Rev 13:5–10). But, Jesus would judge them and seize control of earth. He will reign in righteousness for a thousand years, and people will thrive during those peaceful times (Rev 20:1–6).

Today’s cruel and unjust leaders should remind us to hope. For Jesus is going to fulfil His words. He is our ultimate leader. As Isaiah has prophesied;

“6 For to us a child is born,

to us a son is given;

and the government shall be upon his shoulder,

and his name shall be called

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

7 Of the increase of his government and of peace

there will be no end,

on the throne of David and over his kingdom,

to establish it and to uphold it

with justice and with righteousness

from this time forth and forevermore.

The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.”[Isa 9:6,7]

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