This verse reminds believers to humbly revere both the heavenly King and earthly rulers, staying clear of those who sow rebellion for its own sake.
Solomon the king of Israel (who likely reigned from around 970 to 931 BC) offers a stern exhortation when he writes, “My son, fear the LORD and the king; Do not associate with those who are given to change” (Proverbs 24:21). By addressing the reader as my son, he underscores the deeply personal and fatherly nature of his counsel, reminding us that wisdom is not only about right thinking but also about right living. Calling the believer to fear the LORD speaks to placing God in the highest reverence, acknowledging His authority over all creation. The phrase and the king reminds us that human authority, as instituted by God, warrants our respect and obedience (Romans 13:1). In the context of ancient Israel, the king was God’s anointed ruler, meant to model and enforce God’s righteous standards.
When Solomon warns, Do not associate with those who are given to change, he is cautioning against aligning ourselves with rebellious or seditious factions that seek to undermine both God’s moral order and the legitimate authority He has established. This advice reflects a common biblical theme: to honor our earthly leaders in proper reverence while placing our ultimate trust in the LORD (Mark 12:17). Godly wisdom entails loyalty to God’s sovereignty and an avoidance of constantly shifting allegiances or restless pursuits. By resisting the urge to follow those who chase novelty or disruption, we demonstrate a faithful heart that remains anchored in the unchanging nature of God and His precepts.
This teaching also illuminates the delicate balance between obedience to civil authorities and higher obedience to God. Rather than endorsing blind allegiance to a ruler’s every whim, it encourages a posture of godly discernment that aligns with divine truth. When faced with rulers who stand in opposition to righteousness, scripture elsewhere shows God’s people honoring Him above all else (Acts 5:29). Still, Solomon’s counsel here urges genuine respect for the office of leadership: rendering due submission while retaining our greatest awe for the One who reigns eternally.
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Proverbs 24:21 meaning
Solomon the king of Israel (who likely reigned from around 970 to 931 BC) offers a stern exhortation when he writes, “My son, fear the LORD and the king; Do not associate with those who are given to change” (Proverbs 24:21). By addressing the reader as my son, he underscores the deeply personal and fatherly nature of his counsel, reminding us that wisdom is not only about right thinking but also about right living. Calling the believer to fear the LORD speaks to placing God in the highest reverence, acknowledging His authority over all creation. The phrase and the king reminds us that human authority, as instituted by God, warrants our respect and obedience (Romans 13:1). In the context of ancient Israel, the king was God’s anointed ruler, meant to model and enforce God’s righteous standards.
When Solomon warns, Do not associate with those who are given to change, he is cautioning against aligning ourselves with rebellious or seditious factions that seek to undermine both God’s moral order and the legitimate authority He has established. This advice reflects a common biblical theme: to honor our earthly leaders in proper reverence while placing our ultimate trust in the LORD (Mark 12:17). Godly wisdom entails loyalty to God’s sovereignty and an avoidance of constantly shifting allegiances or restless pursuits. By resisting the urge to follow those who chase novelty or disruption, we demonstrate a faithful heart that remains anchored in the unchanging nature of God and His precepts.
This teaching also illuminates the delicate balance between obedience to civil authorities and higher obedience to God. Rather than endorsing blind allegiance to a ruler’s every whim, it encourages a posture of godly discernment that aligns with divine truth. When faced with rulers who stand in opposition to righteousness, scripture elsewhere shows God’s people honoring Him above all else (Acts 5:29). Still, Solomon’s counsel here urges genuine respect for the office of leadership: rendering due submission while retaining our greatest awe for the One who reigns eternally.