When Terror Reigns...

The world knows it’s in trouble when a dictator looms large on a national scene. The most recent public demonstration of this has been in Zimbabwe, but genocide anywhere is a good indication. Yet, we’ve all been affected in our little worlds by the corrupt, greedy, insane ‘ruler’ in our midsts, whether it was a boss at work, a partner, or even a peer--all via bullying, harassment, unfair goading etc.

There’s a cool string of proverbs that speak of the terror-wielding psychopath; a ‘rule’ we can all somewhat identify with. This might only to some extent characterise the situation you find yourself in, or have done in the past, but listen up all the same. It’s an ever-present potential reality.

“When the righteous triumph, there is great elation; but when the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding” –Proverbs 28:12

“When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy” –Proverbs 11:10

“When the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding; but when the wicked perish, the righteous thrive” –Proverbs 28:28

“When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan” –Proverbs 29:2

“When the wicked thrive, so does sin, but the righteous will see their downfall” –Proverbs 29:16

So what’s the overriding theme?--the guts of the truth. It almost seems obvious that when freedom and peace are striven for, everyone gets a fair slice of life, and general contentment can prevail.

The main hope is that such a crooked reign, whether in the workplace, in the home, or in any bad association we might have, can only last a time before God chooses to act in his sovereign way. Often his way is so unpredictable and inconceivable beforehand, we know it to be the hand of God.

There is great rejoicing when people see justice occur. And it does and will happen. Wait and see. It’s inevitable. People’s exultation is the prize for the righteous leader seeking peace, fairness and justice for all the downhearted.

Copyright © 2009, S. J. Wickham. All Rights Reserved.

All Scripture quotations from the TNIV.