Proverbs 16:11-12 “Honest scales and balances are from the LORD; all the weights in the bag are his handiwork. Doing wickedness is an abomination to kings, because a throne is established in righteousness.”

God wants us to be honest and fair in our dealings with others.

Deuteronomy 25:13-16 “You must not have in your bag different stone weights, a heavy and a light one. You must not have in your house different measuring containers, a large and a small one. You must have an accurate and correct stone weight and an accurate and correct measuring container, so that your life may be extended in the land the LORD your God is about to give you. For anyone who acts dishonestly in these ways is abhorrent to the LORD your God.”

A righteous kingdom (like Israel was supposed to be), should encourage honesty and fairness. If the people feel that they are being treated fairly and that they are cared for, a king has nothing to worry about. That’s why a king should hate wickedness! Beyond that, there is also the danger that God himself will intervene because a king is either unrighteous himself or encourages unrighteousness in his kingdom.

1 Samuel 15:22-23 “Then Samuel said, ‘Does the LORD take pleasure in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as he does in obedience? Certainly, obedience is better than sacrifice; paying attention is better than the fat of rams. For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and presumption is like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the LORD’s orders, he has rejected you from being king.'”

How do we apply verse 12 today? We should probably remember that Israel was somewhat unique, even while understanding that there is always a price to be paid for immorality with nations and their rulers. Leaders can be their own worst enemies when they are unrighteous or they encourage unrighteousness. That’s why there are coups and insurrections! However, we can also apply this verse in another way. God’s church are His people, and we would do well to make sure that righteousness reigns in the mist of us.

Revelation 2:5 “Therefore, remember from what high state you have fallen and repent! Do the deeds you did at the first; if not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place—that is, if you do not repent.”