Proverbs 29:26

Many seek the face of a ruler,
but it is from the LORD that a man gets justice.

How do people hope to succeed and advance up the corporate or educational ladder today? Most feel, there is no better way than knowing someone who can help you. As we say, “It is not what you know, but who you know,” that determines our direction for the future. This isn’t a bad way; those who know us well can sometimes give a give word to an employer about us, and both we and the employer can benefit. We must strive to do our work well, seeking the approval of our overseer as well as God.

This proverb (29:26), however, warns us not to put our ultimate hope in man. “To seek the face of a ruler” really means to seek the ruler’s favor or his good word. Many take special efforts to get the good favor from another –whether a ruler, an employer, or a coach. In this respect, verse 26 accompanies verse 25 which reminds us that the fear of man is a snare. We seek others’ approval and in seeking that we are tempted to act dishonorably to get the approval we want. Remember the number who sought Solomon’s approval, many for the sake of their own gain in life. Remember, too, Haman, who believed he had the favor of the king, but in the end the gallows he had made for his enemy were made his very own. The king’s frown on Haman, thus, made him miserable. How much better to seek the approval of a sovereign God who rules the universe! It is from the Lord that we get our due; even more, we receive great mercy and help when we are helpless.

Let us look to the Ruler of all Rulers and trust that what he has ordained is for our great good and happness in this life. God is the first Cause on which all second Causes rest; therefore, seek him and not that one on earth who is only God’s creature.