The book “Why Nations Fail” by Daron Acemoglu and James Robinson should be required reading for all politicians who wish to govern well.
“Nations like South Korea have what Acemoglu and Robinson call ‘inclusive institutions,’ such as representative legislatures, good public schools, open markets and strong patent systems.
“Inclusive institutions educate their populations. They invest in infrastructure. They fight poverty and disease. They encourage innovation.
“They are far different from the ‘extractive institutions’ found in countries like North Korea, Venezuela and Saudi Arabia, where small groups of elites use state power for their own ends and prosper through corruption, rent-seeking or brutally forcing people to work” (January 19, 2021, in “Planet Money”).
Solomon depicted the role of leaders in the context of the inclusive institutions we have just described.
By me kings reign,
and rulers decree what is just;
By me rulers rule,
and nobles, all who govern rightly. (Proverbs 8.15-16)
In these verses, first, observe how wisdom relates to rulers through the power of God.
When rulers are connected with wisdom, they act justly and govern effectively. They demonstrate nobility and utilize their power for the well-being of the people.
In the context of the book “Why Nations Fail,” they establish inclusive institutions that serve the interests of their nation rather than their own self-centered desires.
Pursue Wisdom
When we equate the wisdom found in the Old Testament with Jesus in the New Testament, it becomes perfectly logical to love and earnestly seek to experience God’s wisdom through a relationship with Him.
I love those who love me,
and those who seek me diligently find me. (Proverbs 8.17)
In Matthew 6, Jesus concluded the chapter by addressing the things that cause us anxiety: food, clothing, and material prosperity. He provided a summary of what is most important for us to consider.
He told the crowd that, just as we seek and love wisdom, we should also seek and love a relationship with Him and the Kingdom of God.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6.33).
When we are concerned about the political fortunes of our nation or the world and recognize that we have limited ability to influence their actions, there is one action we can take: we can pray.
We can ask God to inspire them to seek the wisdom that leads to righteous and just decisions.
Let’s not pray our own thoughts or political opinions and ask God to confirm them. Rather, let’s come with an open heart.
As Paul wrote in Romans, confess that we don’t know how to pray for a world in turmoil, but trust that the Holy Spirit will pray through us.
“Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness, for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with groanings too deep for words” (Romans 8.26).
Inclusive Economies
I often refer to the book, “Why Nations Fail,” because I believe it holds significant wisdom for our world. Throughout history, nations that have pursued inclusive economies have prospered.
On the other hand, the most oppressed, impoverished, and needy nations are those governed by individuals who extract the nation’s wealth for their personal gain.
Leaders who actively seek God’s wisdom, righteousness, and justice not only personally benefit, but also bring about benefits for all the people around them.
Riches and honor are with me,
enduring wealth and prosperity.
My fruit is better than gold, even fine gold,
and my yield than choice silver.
I walk in the way of righteousness,
along the paths of justice,
Endowing with wealth those who love me
and filling their treasuries. (Proverbs 8.18-21)
These truths date back to Solomon’s message to his students, and regrettably, greed and self-interest have endured just as long. We have a couple of choices before us.
First, we can make sure that we live by the wisdom bestowed upon us by God. Second, we can join with the Holy Spirit as He intercedes for the world.
YouTube Video
Rudy Ross and I discuss this passage on YouTube today. It is on the Bob Spradling channel.
Real Voices 