Now Is the Time to Listen

(Proverbs 16:13 KJV)  Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.

This verse continues to mystify me.  It helps to look at the context although in Proverbs that does not always apply.  From the surrounding verses and the feel of this section I think we must assume that Solomon is talking about righteous kings. 

Perhaps we can use this to decide whether a king is righteous or not.  How does he respond to words of righteousness.  Does he mock or embrace?  The same standard could be applied to our political leaders in a free society.  How do they respond to the ideas, words and values that are consistent with the Word of God.  Usually you can figure this out if you watch.  A simple and obvious example in our current culture:  When someone embraces gay marriage, they are not embracing God’s word.  This would apply to the city counsel as well as the presidency. 

So?  We have no elections in progress but we will.  Now might be a good time to start listening to what the people are saying who might run for office.  Don’t wait for the sound bites of the last week.  Who they have been is who they will be.