Proverbs 20:28

Mercy and truth. Here is a true philosophy of history. If every ruler had understood and practiced the implied counsel in this proverb, the history of the world would have been very different. Empire after empire has fallen because the rulers became careless of right and justice or became harsh and rigid without regard for mercy; whereas those kings who enthroned mercy in their hearts lived long and useful lives that benefited their subjects (see Prov. 16:12; Dan. 4:27).