Proverbs 17:6-7 “Grandchildren are like a crown to the elderly, and the glory of children is their parents. Excessive speech is not becoming for a fool; how much less are lies for a ruler!”

Why is it that grandparents love grandchildren so much? Because they feel that they can spoil them rotten? Because they don’t have to be the primary disciplinarians? Because they see the family name being carried on? Because they can send them home?!?!?!? Whatever the reason, we see it every day. And we also see younger children adoring their parents. It’s natural and right, although sometimes parents don’t deserve it. Sometimes a child doesn’t display that adoration, and it’s because of something wrong that the parent has done. Children also lose some or all of that adoration about the time they reach the age of 13! However, honor and respect often returns when a child reaches adulthood. Hopefully that can remain even as the parents age. It can be difficult, as memories dim and physical ability diminishes, but our parents are still are worthy of honor and glory.

Proverbs 16:31 “Gray hair is like a crown of glory; it is attained in the path of righteousness.”

Verse 7 reminds us that fools should be quiet, because everything they say shows how foolish they are. That’s especially true when they try to tell others how important or wonderful they are. Unfortunately, they are the ones least likely to take that advice! As wrong as it is for a fool to be arrogant, it’s even worse for a ruler to lie and be unjust. Rulers are supposed to promote truth and justice.

Proverbs 16:12 “It is an abomination to kings to do evil, for the throne is established by righteousness.”