Fruits are more than just food in the Bible; they are symbolic of spiritual growth and maturity. Whether it’s the fruit of the Spirit or the imagery of bearing good fruit, Scripture often uses fruit as a metaphor for a healthy spiritual life. In this post, we’ll explore the Bible’s teachings on fruit, both literal and symbolic.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Cardinals
What Does The Bible Say About Evil Politicians
Exodus 18:21
“Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of having leaders who fear God, are trustworthy, and do not engage in corrupt practices. It serves as a reminder that God expects those in positions of power to act justly and with integrity.
Having leaders who hate bribes ensures that they prioritize the welfare of the people. This verse encourages us to seek out individuals with these qualities to lead and govern.
Psalms 12:8
“The wicked freely strut about when what is vile is honored among men.”
This verse highlights the unsettling reality of evil politicians who exploit the admiration and endorsement of society to carry out their wicked deeds. It warns against a society that applauds and glorifies actions that are morally corrupt.
As Christians, we are called to be discerning and not be swayed by the false allure of such politicians. It reminds us to hold true to our values, even when the world seems to celebrate those who engage in evil practices.
Proverbs 29:2
“When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.”
This verse acknowledges the impact of evil politicians on the well-being of a nation. It emphasizes the importance of having righteous leaders who govern with wisdom and righteousness, bringing joy and prosperity to the people.
Conversely, when wicked individuals are in power, their rule brings suffering and hardship upon the people. It is a reminder for us to pray for and support leaders who strive for justice and righteousness.
Isaiah 10:1
“Woe to those who decree iniquitous decrees, and the writers who keep writing oppression.”
This verse warns of the consequences awaiting those who enact unjust laws and oppress their fellow citizens. It recognizes the harm caused by politicians who abuse their authority to bring about policies that perpetuate injustice and suffering.
As believers, this verse calls us to speak out against such oppression and stand up for righteousness. It reminds us to advocate for fairness and equality, even in the face of corrupt political systems.
Proverbs 14:34
“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of righteousness in the governance of a nation. It reminds us that when leaders uphold moral values and act justly, it brings honor and prosperity to the entire country.
On the other hand, when sin and corruption are prevalent in the political sphere, it brings shame and disgrace to the people. It urges us to seek leaders who prioritize righteousness, as it ultimately benefits society as a whole.
Proverbs 28:15
“Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a poor people.”
This verse vividly depicts the destructive nature of having a wicked ruler who oppresses the vulnerable and impoverished. It compares such a ruler to a fierce and threatening predator, ready to devour its prey.
As Christians, we are called to protect and advocate for the marginalized and disadvantaged. This verse serves as a reminder to stand against wicked rulers who exploit the weak and strive for justice for all.
Proverbs 29:4
“By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts tears it down.”
This verse highlights the role of justice in the prosperity and growth of a nation. It emphasizes that a just and fair ruler contributes to the development and well-being of the land.
Conversely, when a ruler engages in corrupt practices, demanding bribes and gifts for personal gain, it leads to the decay and destruction of the nation. This verse reminds us to support leaders who prioritize justice and reject those who seek personal enrichment at the expense of the people.
Proverbs 29:12
“If a ruler listens to falsehood, all his officials will be wicked.”
This verse highlights the influence of a ruler’s character and decisions on those around them. It acknowledges that a leader who gives heed to lies and deception will attract officials who are similarly corrupt and dishonest in their actions.
As believers, we should pray for leaders who have discernment to distinguish truth from falsehood. This verse also challenges us to hold leaders accountable and encourages us to be discerning in our support for politicians who demonstrate integrity and a commitment to honest governance.
Proverbs 16:12
“It is an abomination to kings to do evil, for the throne is established by righteousness.”
This verse highlights the inherent contradiction of a ruler who engages in evil actions. It denotes that for a king to perpetrate wickedness is detestable and contrary to their role as a leader.
A throne is built on righteousness, implying that sustainable governance requires leaders to act according to moral principles. This verse reminds us to uphold leaders to a higher standard and reject those who engage in evil practices.
Ecclesiastes 5:8
“If you see in a province the oppression of the poor and the violation of justice and righteousness, do not be amazed at the matter, for the high official is watched by a higher, and there are yet higher ones over them.”
This verse acknowledges the existence of institutionalized corruption and oppression within political systems. It cautions against surprise when witnessing the mistreatment of the poor and the absence of justice, as higher-ranking officials are often complicit.
As believers, this verse invites us to advocate for societal change and seek justice for the marginalized. It reminds us that even when the political landscape seems rooted in corruption, God ultimately reigns over all.
Proverbs 17:7
“Fine speech is not becoming to a fool; still less is false speech to a prince.”
This verse warns against the hypocrisy of politicians who engage in deceitful speech. It indicates that one’s position of power amplifies the inappropriateness and harmfulness of spreading falsehoods.
As Christians, we should value truth and honesty, advocating for leaders who speak with integrity. This verse reminds us to be discerning and not be swayed by false promises or cunning words from politicians who lack moral character.
Proverbs 21:1
“The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will.”
This verse acknowledges that ultimately, the authority of political leaders rests in the hands of God. It highlights that even the most powerful ruler’s heart is subject to the divine influence and can be redirected according to God’s will.
As believers, this verse encourages us to pray for our leaders, recognizing that their actions and decisions can be guided by God. It also instills hope that God’s purposes prevail, even amidst the complexities of political leadership.
Romans 13:3
“For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval.”
This verse outlines the expected role of rulers, which is to maintain order and protect law-abiding citizens. It conveys the idea that as long as one engages in good conduct, there should be no fear of those in authority.
As Christians, this verse encourages us to be law-abiding citizens and promotes the notion that good leadership fosters a safe and just society. It also challenges us to hold leaders accountable when they fail to fulfill their role in promoting the well-being of the people.
Proverbs 28:16
“A ruler who lacks understanding is a cruel oppressor, but he who hates unjust gain will prolong his days.”
This verse draws attention to the detrimental consequences that arise when a ruler lacks understanding and empathy. It asserts that such a leader becomes an oppressive force, inflicting cruelty upon their subjects.
Contrarily, those who reject unjust gain and prioritize righteousness will experience prolonged days. This verse serves as a reminder to seek leaders who demonstrate wisdom, understanding, and a genuine concern for the welfare of their citizens.
Jeremiah 22:3
“Thus says the Lord: Do justice and righteousness, and deliver from the hand of the oppressor him who has been robbed. And do no wrong or violence to the resident alien, the fatherless, and the widow, nor shed innocent blood in this place.”
This verse is a direct call from God to political leaders. It instructs them to practice justice, ensuring that the oppressed are delivered from the hands of their oppressors. It also prohibits the use of wrongdoing, violence, and the shedding of innocent blood.
As believers, we should advocate for leaders who uphold these principles and speak out against those who perpetuate injustices. This verse reminds us to prioritize justice, fairness, and compassion for the marginalized, as God instructed.
Proverbs 29:7
“A righteous man knows the rights of the poor; a wicked man does not understand such knowledge.”
This verse underscores the importance of empathy and understanding in the heart of a righteous leader. It suggests that a righteous man possesses knowledge of the rights and struggles of the poor, demonstrating compassion and a desire for justice.
Conversely, a wicked leader lacks this knowledge and understanding, perpetuating the suffering of the marginalized. This verse challenges us to support leaders who demonstrate empathy and advocate for the well-being of all, especially the less fortunate.
Psalm 146:3
“Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation.”
This verse serves as a reminder that our ultimate trust should not rest solely on political leaders. It cautions against placing unwavering faith in human figures who are fallible and limited in their ability to bring true salvation.
As Christians, our trust should be firmly rooted in God, who alone has the power to bring salvation and deliverance. This verse encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God and rely on His guidance rather than solely on political leaders.
Proverbs 20:8
“A king who sits on the throne of judgment winnows all evil with his eyes.”
This verse illustrates the responsibility of a king to discern and eliminate evil through his keen judgment. It suggests that a righteous ruler carefully examines and sifts through the actions and intentions of individuals, seeking justice and righteousness.
As believers, we should pray for leaders who possess discernment and the ability to identify and address evil in society. This verse reminds us of the importance of wise leadership in upholding justice and holding individuals accountable.
Isaiah 1:23
“Your princes are rebels and companions of thieves. Everyone loves a bribe and runs after gifts. They do not bring justice to the fatherless, and the widow’s cause does not come to them.”
This verse denounces corrupt political leaders who engage in rebellion, theft, and accept bribes. It condemns their failure to bring justice to the vulnerable, specifically mentioning the fatherless and widows.
As Christians, we are called to advocate for the oppressed and marginalized. This verse reminds us to challenge and reject politicians who prioritize personal gain and neglect the needs of those in society who require special care.
Proverbs 29:14
“If a king faithfully judges the poor, his throne will be established forever.”
This verse highlights the significance of fair judgment by political leaders, particularly in relation to the poor. It suggests that when a king demonstrates a commitment to justly assessing the needs of the impoverished, it ensures the stability and longevity of his reign.
As believers, we should value leaders who prioritize fairness and equity, extending aid and support to those in need. This verse serves as a reminder to seek leaders who prioritize justice and demonstrate compassion towards the less fortunate.
Proverbs 14:28
“In a multitude of people is the glory of a king, but without people a prince is ruined.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of a leader’s connection and commitment to the people they govern. It suggests that the success and influence of a king lie in the support and loyalty of their subjects.
As Christians, we should desire leaders who genuinely value and prioritize the well-being of the people. This verse reminds us of the reciprocal relationship between leaders and citizens and the importance of fostering a society built on mutual respect and concern.
Isaiah 11:4
“But with righteousness, he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; and he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked.”
This verse describes the ideal ruler who judges the poor with righteousness and fairness. It portrays a leader who stands up for the oppressed and brings justice to the meek of the earth.
As Christians, we should long for leaders who govern with righteousness and equity. This verse affirms that a just ruler has the power to overthrow wickedness and restore balance, bringing hope and justice to the world.
2 Samuel 23:3
“The God of Israel has spoken; the Rock of Israel has said to me: When one rules justly over men, ruling in the fear of God.”
This verse conveys the divine expectation for rulers to govern justly, guided by the fear of God. It suggests that just rule requires individuals in positions of power to align their decisions and actions with God’s standards of righteousness.
As believers, we should pray for leaders who possess a fear of God and strive to uphold justice in their governance. This verse encourages us to support leaders who acknowledge God’s authority and actively seek to govern in accordance with His principles.
Proverbs 28:12
“When the righteous triumph, there is great glory, but when the wicked rise, people hide themselves.”
This verse recognizes the impact of having righteous leaders in positions of power. It suggests that when individuals characterised by righteousness ascend to leadership, it brings honor and benefit to the people.
Conversely, the rise of wicked leaders prompts fear and causes people to hide, sensing the impending harm that such rulers may bring. This verse encourages us to promote and support leaders who champion righteousness and justice.