Proverbs 14:28

In the multitude of people is the king’s honor: but in the want of people is the destruction of the prince.
– Proverbs 14:28

This proverb is a wise observation of life. A king’s honor, or glory, is not in his conquests and power. The measure of a king’s true honor is in the peace, prosperity, and flourishing of the people under his rule (Proverbs 29:2; 1 Kings 4:20). The word for want means an end or ceasing. In the context, it’s the end of prosperity and the opposite of flourishing, and such is the destruction, or ruin, of honor. This sort of ruler rules selfishly and invites rebellion (Proverbs 30:29-31).

Listen to the Proverbs sermon series