1 The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, [is] from the LORD.
2 All the ways of a man [are] clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.
3 Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.
4 The LORD hath made all [things] for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.
5 Every one [that is] proud in heart [is] an abomination to the LORD: [though] hand [join] in hand, he shall not be unpunished.
6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD [men] depart from evil.
7 When a man’s ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
8 Better [is] a little with righteousness than great revenues without right.
9 A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.
10 A divine sentence [is] in the lips of the king: his mouth transgresseth not in judgment.
11 A just weight and balance [are] the LORD’S: all the weights of the bag [are] his work.
12 [It is] an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.
13 Righteous lips [are] the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.
14 The wrath of a king [is as] messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.
15 In the light of the king’s countenance [is] life; and his favour [is] as a cloud of the latter rain.
16 How much better [is it] to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!
17 The highway of the upright [is] to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul.
18 Pride [goeth] before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.
19 Better [it is to be] of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.
20 He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy [is] he.
21 The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.
22 Understanding [is] a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools [is] folly.
23 The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.
24 Pleasant words [are as] an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof [are] the ways of death.
26 He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him.
27 An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips [there is] as a burning fire.
28 A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.
29 A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way [that is] not good.
30 He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.
31 The hoary head [is] a crown of glory, [if] it be found in the way of righteousness.
32 [He that is] slow to anger [is] better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.
33 The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof [is] of the LORD.
Overview of Proverbs 16
Proverbs 16 is a chapter that encapsulates various themes of wisdom, divine sovereignty, and the moral conduct of individuals. It presents a collection of sayings that emphasize the importance of aligning one’s actions with God’s will and the consequences of one’s choices. The chapter is rich in practical advice and spiritual insights, making it relevant for both personal reflection and communal instruction.
The Sovereignty of God
One of the central themes in Proverbs 16 is the sovereignty of God over human affairs. The chapter begins with the assertion that while humans can plan their ways, it is ultimately the Lord who directs their steps.
- Verse 1: Highlights the distinction between human intentions and divine guidance.
- Verse 9: Emphasizes that while a person may devise their plans, it is the Lord who determines their path.
The Importance of Wisdom
The chapter underscores the necessity of wisdom in making decisions and conducting oneself in life. Wisdom is portrayed as a guiding force that leads to favorable outcomes.
- Verse 16: States that acquiring wisdom is more valuable than gold and silver.
- Verse 23: Suggests that wise hearts can discern the right course of action and influence others positively.
Moral Conduct and Integrity
Proverbs 16 also addresses the significance of moral integrity and ethical behavior. It encourages individuals to live righteously and highlights the consequences of wickedness.
- Verse 6: Indicates that mercy and truth lead to atonement for sin, suggesting that ethical behavior can restore one’s relationship with God.
- Verse 12: States that kings detest wrongdoing, reinforcing the idea that leadership should be grounded in righteousness.
The Role of Pride and Humility
The chapter contrasts pride with humility, illustrating the dangers of arrogance and the virtues of a humble spirit.
- Verse 18: Warns that pride precedes destruction, highlighting the inevitable downfall that comes from arrogance.
- Verse 19: Suggests that it is better to be humble among the lowly than to share plunder with the proud.
Consequences of Actions
Proverbs 16 emphasizes the principle of cause and effect, where actions have consequences that reflect one’s character and choices.
- Verse 5: Declares that the Lord detests all the proud of heart, indicating that pride leads to divine disfavor.
- Verse 32: States that a patient person is better than a warrior, suggesting that self-control is a mark of strength.
Conclusion
In summary, Proverbs 16 serves as a profound reminder of the interplay between human agency and divine sovereignty. It calls for wisdom, integrity, and humility while warning against pride and unethical behavior. The chapter encourages readers to reflect on their actions and their alignment with God’s will, ultimately guiding them toward a life of righteousness and fulfillment.
