
Proverbs 16
Proverbs 16 focuses on the sovereignty of God over human plans and actions, emphasizing the need for humility and trust in God's wisdom. It highlights how the Lord directs our steps, examines our motives, and ensures justice, warning against pride and arrogance. The chapter encourages godly living and reliance on divine wisdom rather than self-reliance.
Proverbs 16:1-10 (NKJV)
1 The preparations of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord.
2 All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirits.
3 Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established.
4 The Lord has made all for Himself, yes, even the wicked for the day of doom.
5 Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; though they join forces, none will go unpunished.
6 In mercy and truth atonement is provided for iniquity; and by the fear of the Lord one departs from evil.
7 When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
8 Better is a little with righteousness, than vast revenues without justice.
9 A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.
10 Divination is on the lips of the king; his mouth must not transgress in judgment.
Human beings may make plans and set their intentions, but it is ultimately God who governs the outcomes. God looks deeper into human motives than what appears good externally. Trusting God with all decisions ensures that our thoughts are aligned with His purposes. Even the wicked serve a purpose in God’s overarching plan, but their ultimate end is judgment. Pride is particularly detestable to God, and the pursuit of righteousness is better than gaining wealth unjustly. The righteous ruler is expected to speak and act with wisdom, for God directs the path of justice.
Proverbs 16:11-15 (NKJV)
11 Honest weights and scales are the Lord’s; all the weights in the bag are His work.
12 It is an abomination for kings to commit wickedness, for a throne is established by righteousness.
13 Righteous lips are the delight of kings, and they love him who speaks what is right.
14 As messengers of death is the king’s wrath, but a wise man will appease it.
15 In the light of the king’s face is life, and his favor is like a cloud of the latter rain.
Honesty in all dealings, especially in business or judgment, reflects God’s standard of fairness. Leaders must uphold justice because it is by righteousness that their reign is sustained. Wise rulers value honesty and integrity, and their favor brings life and prosperity to those they govern. The wise avoid the wrath of authority through careful and prudent speech, as the king’s goodwill leads to blessings.
Proverbs 16:16-20 (NKJV)
16 How much better to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.
17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil; he who keeps his way preserves his soul.
18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.
19 Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.
20 He who heeds the word wisely will find good, and whoever trusts in the Lord, happy is he.
Wisdom and understanding are of greater value than material wealth because they guide one’s life towards good decisions and righteous living. Departing from evil keeps a person on a safe path. Pride, however, inevitably leads to downfall, while humility brings protection and blessing. Trusting in God’s word brings peace and success, while associating with the arrogant leads to misfortune.
Proverbs 16:21-25 (NKJV)
21 The wise in heart will be called prudent, and sweetness of the lips increases learning.
22 Understanding is a wellspring of life to him who has it. But the correction of fools is folly.
23 The heart of the wise teaches his mouth, and adds learning to his lips.
24 Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.
25 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.
Those who possess wisdom demonstrate it in both thought and speech, making their words beneficial and life-giving. Understanding is a continual source of life, whereas correcting the fool is ineffective. The wise speak thoughtfully, and their words bring health and joy, but caution must be exercised, for what seems right may end in destruction if not aligned with God’s truth.
Proverbs 16:26-30 (NKJV)
26 The person who labors, labors for himself, for his hungry mouth drives him on.
27 An ungodly man digs up evil, and it is on his lips like a burning fire.
28 A perverse man sows strife, and a whisperer separates the best of friends.
29 A violent man entices his neighbor, and leads him in a way that is not good.
30 He winks his eye to devise perverse things; he purses his lips and brings about evil.
Labor is driven by need and desire, but the wicked person uses their efforts to stir up trouble and harm. Gossip and slander are particularly destructive, breaking up even the closest relationships. The violent and scheming individual manipulates others into sinful or harmful actions, showing that evil can be spread by seemingly small gestures or whispers.
Proverbs 16:31-33 (NKJV)
31 The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness.
32 He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.
33 The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.
Old age is a sign of honor when accompanied by a life of righteousness. Self-control, especially in managing anger, is of greater value than physical strength or military victories. Even seemingly random events, such as casting lots, are ultimately determined by God’s will. This underscores God’s sovereignty over all aspects of life, even those that appear to be left to chance.