Chapter
Verse

Proverbs 14:28

ESV In a multitude of people is the glory of a king, but without people a prince is ruined.
NIV A large population is a king’s glory, but without subjects a prince is ruined.
NASB In a multitude of people is a king’s glory, But in the scarcity of people is a prince’s ruin.
CSB A large population is a king’s splendor, but a shortage of people is a ruler’s devastation.
NLT A growing population is a king’s glory; a prince without subjects has nothing.
KJV In the multitude of people is the king's honour: but in the want of people is the destruction of the prince.
NKJV In a multitude of people is a king’s honor, But in the lack of people is the downfall of a prince.

What does Proverbs 14:28 mean?

A royal title means nothing without people to rule. People are a leader's greatest resource. Those followers occupy positions of service, enrich the kingdom, and provide an army to protect it. A prince without people may have an impressive label, but he has no resources if he has no people, and he experiences ruin. This is a wise reminder to those in positions of leadership. Truly worthy employers don't drive away good workers. Good leaders don't frustrate and chase away followers. Political leaders who abuse or fail to protect their people eventually have nothing to lead.

First Kings 4:20 reports that King Solomon reigned over a countless number of people. They were "as many as the sand by the sea." They enjoyed prosperity and were happy (1 Kings 4:20–21). Solomon's advice here applies to heads of state, company presidents, CEOs and all other leaders alike. Their employees are their greatest asset. Without employees, a company may have a spacious facility, high tech equipment, and well-stocked shelves, but if it loses its employees, its productivity and effectiveness will plummet, and it will go bankrupt.
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