Proverbs 20:28 Mercy and truth preserve the king: and his throne is upholden by mercy.
A ruler is sustained not merely by military strength or political strategy but by his moral character. When a king [a leader] practices mercy, kindness, compassion, and fairness, and truth, honesty, integrity, and reliability, he wins the trust and loyalty of his people. These virtues build a strong foundation for stable rule.
History shows that mercy keeps a ruler from tyranny, while truth keeps him from deception and corruption. When subjects believe their king to be just, compassionate, and truthful, they willingly support him and uphold his throne. In contrast, cruelty or dishonesty erodes authority and leads to instability. A throne secured by righteousness is stronger than one built on force.
The Hebrew words (chesed) “mercy” – one of the most important words in the Old Testament, includes loyalty, covenant faithfulness, kindness, steadfast love, and generosity; and (emet) “truth” means “truth, reliability, faithfulness, integrity.” Often paired with chesed (Ps 25:10; 89:14). Then we have (natsar) “preserve” to guard, protect, and maintain; and (samakh) “upholden” to support, sustain, and stabilise.
Living the Word 