Proverbs - Chapter 16

Proverbs 16.1 The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD. Proverbs 16.2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits. Proverbs 16.3 Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. Proverbs 16.4 The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil. Proverbs 16.5 Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished. Proverbs 16.6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil. Proverbs 16.7 When a man’s ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him. Proverbs 16.8 Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right. Proverbs 16.9 A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps. Proverbs 16.10 A divine sentence is in the lips of the king: his mouth transgresseth not in judgment. Proverbs 16.11 A just weight and balance are the LORD’s: all the weights of the bag are his work. Proverbs 16.12 It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness. Proverbs 16.13 Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right. Proverbs 16.14 The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it. Proverbs 16.15 In the light of the king’s countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain. Proverbs 16.16 How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver! Proverbs 16.17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul. Proverbs 16.18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16.19 Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud. Proverbs 16.20 He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he. Proverbs 16.21 The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning. Proverbs 16.22 Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly. Proverbs 16.23 The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips. Proverbs 16.24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones. Proverbs 16.25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. Proverbs 16.26 He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him. Proverbs 16.27 An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire. Proverbs 16.29 A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good. Proverbs 16.30 He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass. Proverbs 16.31 The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness. Proverbs 16.32 He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

Proverbs : Chapter 16

God's Sovereignty and Human Responsibility

Proverbs chapter 16 invites us to meditate on God's sovereignty and human responsibility. How can we align our plans with God's purposes? This profound text emphasizes that while humans can plan, it is the Lord who directs their steps. This chapter addresses themes such as pride and humility, fairness in business, and the value of a controlled mind.

Proverbs 16 also highlights the importance of pursuing wisdom over wealth. Let's reflect together on five key proverbs that offer us insight into how to live in harmony with God's will.

Scriptures in Resonance

The passage from James 4:13-15 reminds us: "Listen now, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, do business, and make a profit.' You don't even know what will happen to you tomorrow! What is your life like? You are like the fog that appears for a little while and then dissipates. Instead, they should say, 'If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.'" This text reflects the theme of Proverbs 16:9, emphasizing that, although man makes plans, it is God who determines his steps.

In 1 Peter 5:5, we read: "In the same way, you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Be humble toward one another, for God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." This passage echoes Proverbs 16:18, warning against pride and encouraging humility.

The verse in Matthew 5:9 states: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God." This verse highlights the theme of Proverbs 16:7, emphasizing the value of peace and reconciliation.

In Hebrews 12:11 it is written: "No discipline seems to be a joy for the time being, but rather a sorrow. But later on, it produces fruits of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." This passage relates to Proverbs 16:32, emphasizing the value of self-control and discipline. Finally, Philippians 2:3-4 exhorts us: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of us should look not only to his own interests but also to those of others." This excerpt reflects the themes of Proverbs 16:19, promoting humility and consideration for others.

Conclusion

As we meditate on these passages, we are called to align our lives with divine principles, cultivate humility, seek peace, and exercise self-control. May our path be guided by God's wisdom, enabling us to live in accordance with His will.