Tag: Wrath vs. Favour

Wrath vs. Favour – Part 2

~ iolaHC ~ Leave a comment

Proverbs 19:12 The king’s wrath is as the roaring of a lion; but his favour is as dew upon the grass. 

‘As dew upon the grass’ – Dew quietly descends overnight, bringing life and nourishment to plants; without it, vegetation withers. Likewise, a ruler’s favour refreshes and blesses those he governs. “In the light of the king’s countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain” (16:15). Psalm 72:6 describes a godly king: “He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers that water the earth.” The picture is of a gentle, life-giving influence, not harsh or overbearing rule.

Wise conduct under authority: Recognise the weight of leadership and the consequences of provoking those in authority unjustly. Practice humility and respect toward leaders, especially when they are in the wrong (Rom. 13:1-7; 1Pet. 2:13-17). This respect does not mean approving of evil or enabling abuse, but rather maintaining a godly attitude and response while trusting God’s timing and justice (Gal. 6:7).

Good leaders know both the power of discipline and the value of gracious favour. Leadership that is always harsh produces fear; leadership tempered with kindness refreshes and motivates. God’s wrath is fearful to the unrepentant (Heb. 10:31), yet His favour toward His people is life-giving (Ps. 30:5). Christ as King exercises both justice and mercy perfectly.

Wrath vs. Favour – Part 1

~ iolaHC ~ Leave a comment

Proverbs 19:12 The king’s wrath is as the roaring of a lion; but his favour is as dew upon the grass. 

This verse uses two vivid images to describe the contrasting effects of a ruler’s wrath and favour. [1] A king’s wrath – just as the roar of a lion strikes terror into every creature, so the anger of a king or ruler brings fear and danger to those under his authority. Kings in ancient times had the power of life and death; their displeasure could lead to judgment or destruction. Those who provoke authority recklessly are unwise (16:14; 20:2). [2] A king’s favour – in contrast, when a king’s countenance shines with kindness, it brings refreshment and blessing, like dew on the grass that renews and nourishes plants. A benevolent ruler’s approval leads to peace and prosperity. Godly leadership brings blessing and refreshment to those under its care (16:15; Ps. 72:6).

‘Roaring of a lion’ – A lion’s roar signals dominance and danger; it causes all other animals to tremble, flee, or hide. In ancient cultures, this imagery underscored the king’s authority and the seriousness of his anger.– “The wrath of a king is as messengers of death” (16:14). In Proverbs 28:15, an oppressive ruler is compared to a roaring lion and a ravenous bear. The idea is that the king’s wrath should sober and humble those under him; it warns against rebellion or dishonour. To be continued…