Proverbs 24:21

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

Proverbs 24:21 (KJV)

Context

Proverbs is wisdom literature from the Old Testament, largely written by King Solomon. It offers practical guidance for righteous living. This saying belongs to a collection that teaches how to relate to God and to human rulers. The opening address, “My son,” marks it as fatherly instruction for a younger person, yet the lesson applies to every believer.

Meaning

The verse commands, “fear thou the Lord and the king.” In Scripture, “fear” means reverence, awe, and humble submission, not terror. Fearing the Lord honors Him as the highest authority and obeys His commands. Fearing the king respects the earthly ruler God has placed over the nation. This is not blind obedience to evil rulers, but a general principle of honoring legitimate authority.

The second part warns, “meddle not with them that are given to change.” “Meddle” means to associate with or join. “Them that are given to change” describes people who are restless, rebellious, or always seeking to overturn the established order. The warning is not against all change or reform. It targets those who are habitually seditious and stir up trouble without just cause. Such people bring danger to themselves and to those who follow them.

Biblical connections

The next verse, Proverbs 24:22, explains why this warning matters: their calamity will rise suddenly, and no one knows the ruin that both God and the king can bring. Romans 13:1-7 reinforces the teaching that governing authorities are appointed by God, so believers should submit to them. Matthew 22:21 instructs giving to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God. These passages show that honoring rulers is part of honoring God, as long as the ruler does not command disobedience to God. When human authority conflicts with God’s commands, we must obey God, as Acts 5:29 demonstrates.

Application

This verse calls for a life of reverence and stability. We should honor God first, and also respect the leaders He has placed over us, such as government officials, employers, and church leaders. We must choose our associations carefully. It is wise to avoid people who are always discontented and eager to rebel against lawful authority. This does not mean we never seek improvement, but we should not join movements that promote disorder and rebellion without a clear, godly reason.

We are also encouraged to live peaceful and contented lives. Instead of constantly seeking change for its own sake, we can trust God’s sovereignty and work for good within the systems He has established. This brings stability to our own hearts and to our communities.

Reflection

Consider your own attitude toward authority. Do you honor God with genuine reverence and obey His Word? Do you respect the leaders He has placed over you, even when they are imperfect? Are you drawn to people who are always restless and critical, or do you seek peace and order? Ask God to give you a humble, loyal, and discerning heart, so that you may walk in wisdom and avoid the ruin that comes from joining the rebellious.