Fear The Lord & Respect Your Leaders!!

Good morning!!
It's a chilly morning here in NYC; but I am looking forward to a great day nonetheless!!

Our bold print is in verse 21-22 today, NLTse:

Proverbs 24:21-22
"My child, fear the Lord and the king. Don't associate with rebels,
22 for disaster will hit them suddenly. Who knows what punishment will come from the Lord and the king?"

Who we associate (hang out) with does affect us and our future!!! We have been instructed many times in Proverbs to "fear the Lord". It is the "beginning; the foundation of wisdom". We understand that, no? But in this passage we are also instructed to "respect our leaders (or the King) and not to associate with rebels". Their behavior will infect us and we will be treated like a rebel!!

Associating with rebels is not just about overt or obvious bad behavior, rebellion can be quiet, like a strong undercurrent; hidden in a body of water. It can't be seen and it grows out of sight. If left unchecked, it will grow into a root of bitterness that will infect many (Hebrews 12:15). This is why loyalty and trust are so important to a leader.

Now, we understand that no one - including a leader is perfect! They will make mistakes; oh YES they will, but the Bible is clear here, we are to respect them and not join in with the crew of people that rebel, or are defiant. (as described in the Message version) This behavior can seriously RUIN your future!

So, make a wise choice and be careful who you associate with at work, home or where God has placed you to minister! Find good, success minded, respectful people that fear God!! They are NOT hard to find if you are looking in the right place...