It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.
A throne is established and made firm by righteousness, so just and upright rule is the foundation of a secure, prosperous, and stable kingdom. Committing wickedness is abhorrent to kings and contrary to a king's office, since a throne stands only by right doing. The throne is also upheld by mercy, so rulers must break off sin by righteousness and wrongdoing by mercy to the poor if their peace and rule are to last. Every earthly ruler receives power from Heaven, God sets up kings and removes kings, and a ruler's success depends on how faithfully that given power is used.
This is the philosophy of history: the strength of nations, as of individuals, is not found in apparent advantages, opportunities, or facilities that seem to make them invincible, nor in boasted greatness, but is measured by faithfulness in fulfilling God's purpose. Righteous principles of justice, truth, equity, and benevolence support the state and uphold a nation's prosperity and order. Temperance belongs among those same biblical principles that support the state, and rejecting them weakens it. France illustrates the verse, for suppressing the Bible and persecuting its followers drove away people whose character, principles, and abilities could have strengthened the country, contributing to national decline and revolution.
A throne is established and made firm by righteousness, so just and upright rule is the foundation of a secure, prosperous, and stable kingdom. Committing wickedness is abhorrent to kings and contrary to a king's office, since a throne stands only by right doing. The throne is also upheld by mercy, so rulers must break off sin by righteousness and wrongdoing by mercy to the poor if their peace and rule are to last. Every earthly ruler receives power from Heaven, God sets up kings and removes kings, and a ruler's success depends on how faithfully that given power is used.
This is the philosophy of history: the strength of nations, as of individuals, is not found in apparent advantages, opportunities, or facilities that seem to make them invincible, nor in boasted greatness, but is measured by faithfulness in fulfilling God's purpose. Righteous principles of justice, truth, equity, and benevolence support the state and uphold a nation's prosperity and order. Temperance belongs among those same biblical principles that support the state, and rejecting them weakens it. France illustrates the verse, for suppressing the Bible and persecuting its followers drove away people whose character, principles, and abilities could have strengthened the country, contributing to national decline and revolution.