“When the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding; but when the wicked perish, the righteous thrive.”
There are two ways this verse is understood. One that disappoints me is that the righteous are too timid to stand a declare God’s truth boldly when their country is controlled by those who don’t respect God. I have seen businesses taken over by men and women with no respect for God who also cause the God followers to fall silent and slip quietly into the background. That is not always wrong. It can be best to reveal God in our lives by letting those who don’t respect Him see Him at work in and through our lives. Our diligence in doing quality work with kindness and excellence can open opportunities to speak about our faith. However, staying silent and hiding our commitment to Jesus, though comfortable, may allow the ungodly to reign freely. The second understanding of this verse is that the righteous are so ashamed by the behavior, decision making and direction of the wicked that they do not want their reputation associated with it. They wait until the results of that leadership catches up to them and as they fall the righteous reemerge and assume control in the leadership vacuum that can be left. As the righteous lead in any arena, education, political, business or even the church we watch them thrive under God’s properly recognized authority. Today be bold and lead with God’s righteousness. #BeTheEdge
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NIV
