Beware Lions Bearing Gifts

(Proverbs 28:15 KJV)  As a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; so is a wicked ruler over the poor people.

The focus of these evil leaders is on the “poor” (1800b) “people” (5971a).  This is the most common word translated “poor” but it is not the only one.  This one has a scope of meaning that goes beyond economics.  This is the word for those who might have enough money but are lacking in strength.  That strength can be political or personal.  If you look back at verse 3 you see it translated “lowly” in the NASB.  A number of translations have it as “weak”. 

There are many people who are not able to stand up and be counted.  They cannot do the right thing if pressure is put on them.  They tend to give in to temptation instead of resisting.  Evil leaders tend to manipulate and use these people.  That is why welfare and entitlements are so destructive.  They are used to gain political power, to buy votes.  It can make our form of government a joke.

So?  We are in a political time.  Use discernment.  Recognize that many political promises are simply the tool of unscrupulous politicians manipulating the sheep for their own benefit and power.  Vote accordingly.