What is the definition of Proverbs 24:21?

My son, fear thou the LORD and the king: [and] meddle not with them that are given to change:

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Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 24:21. It's a really important message about how we should handle authority and power. Here’s a simple explanation:
The Core Meaning:
This verse is essentially saying:
“Don’t be reckless with those in positions of power or influence. Be careful not to get involved in things that are unstable or change constantly.”

Let's unpack it piece by piece:
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"My son..."
: This refers to a younger person, often the wise and thoughtful one. It emphasizes the importance of listening to someone with experience. 💎
"...fear thou the LORD..."
: “Fear” in this context doesn’t mean constant terror. It means to respect God – to acknowledge His authority and presence. “Thou” is a formal way of addressing God, making it more serious. 💎
"...and the king..."
: This refers to those who have power and influence – rulers, leaders, officials. 💎
"[and] meddle not with them that are given to change:"
: This is the crucial part. “Meddle” means to interfere or get involved in something that isn’t right. "Given to change" means someone who is flexible, unpredictable, and prone to making decisions without thinking things through.
So, what does it mean practically?
It's a warning against: 💎
Being swayed by others:
Don’t let someone else’s opinions or actions control your thoughts or decisions. 💎
Taking sides in disputes:
Don’t get involved in arguments or conflicts that aren't of the best interest. 💎
Making hasty judgments:
Resist the urge to react too quickly or make decisions without considering all the facts.
In essence, the verse encourages a measured and thoughtful approach to leadership and power.
It’s about maintaining balance and avoiding actions that could lead to chaos or instability.
Why is this important?
This principle has been around for centuries! It's a reminder of the importance of wisdom, prudence, and humility – qualities that are vital in guiding our lives and navigating the world. ---
Do you want me to:
💎 Explain any part of the verse in more detail? 💎 Give you an example of how this principle applies to a specific situation?