Thirty-Three One Sentence Proverbs
Comments for Study 16

Memory Verse: 4

Questions

Outline

I. The First Eleven (16:1-11)

* This drawing in public domain from a book by Luiken, Jan (1649-1712) is titled "De bykorf des gemoeds : honing zaamelende uit allerly bloemen / vervattende over de honderd konstige figuuren ; met godlyke spreuken en stichtelyke verzen, door Jan Luiken" The titled is "The Alps Mountains: But It Must Be". Two travelers on mules, ride carefully through a region with many steep cliffs and mountains that peak through the clouds. The Dutch artist and poet Jan Luiken (1649-1712), whose initials are at the lower right, was responsible for drawing and etching this emblem, as well as for the poem that accompanies it (below). The attendant Scripture text is Proverbs 16:17. Courtesy of the Digital Image Archive, Pitts Theology Library, Candler School of Theology, Emory University: http://www.pitts.emory.edu.

The motto is "Although the climb is high and steep, One does it for Eternal Salvation. ". The accompanying poem is:

>1. What does the proverb in verse 1 mean?

* Proverbs 16:1 "To man belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD comes the reply of the tongue."

* The Proverbs of Solomon start with basic teachings and concepts that need to be understood and excepted in order to understand the proverbs in these later chapters. Starting from the previous chapter through this one deeper concepts are developed from the previous simpler ones.

* "To man belong the plans of the heart" -"Maarak leb adam" in the original Hebrew is also translated "The preparations of the heart in man".

* "from the LORD comes the reply of the tongue." -God gives the ability to articulate and accomplish plans as well as maintain-- the environment needed to ensure its success..

* Proverbs 19:21 "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails."

* Conscience plans for the future is a characteristic that is perhaps unique to humans. No proof exists that apes and monkeys make plans for the future. Squirrels hide nuts in the ground out of instinct, not because of a conscience decision. Birds and beasts of the great plains migrate out of instinct and hunger, not out of a conscience decision. "To mankind belongs the plans of the heart" based on one's own sense of right and wrong.

The proverb continues, "But from the LORD comes the reply of the tongue." God must give me the ability to articulate and accomplish the plans in my heart. Verse 9 is similar with fewer poetic flowers. Chapter 19:21 puts it this way, "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails. "If the Lord Jesus doesn't want it to happen, it won't. I reason, "It is easier for me to seek God's will and glory and let the rest fall into place as he enables me to accomplish it."

Noah did not plan to build the arc until God directed him. Abram did not leave Ur and then later Harem until God directed him. David decided to build a temple and God rebuked him because it was never God's desire. (2 Samuel 7:1-7) The social and religious leaders of Jesus' day planned to make Israel a sovereign nation again as they understood the Bible. But God had different plans. When they rejected God's will the LORD destroyed the temple and burned the city.

I pray every day, "I want to know your will for me. Give me the power and strength and whatever is needed to do it."

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:1.

>Why do we justify our ways? (2)

* Proverbs 16:2 "All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD."

* "All a man's ways seem innocent to him" -"Innocent" in the original Hebrew is "zak" which can also be translated as "clean" and "pure".

* "motives are weighed by the LORD." -The understanding that the human heart (soul) is what motivates us to act and that the LORD God knows them is stated other places in the Bible. Proverbs 24:12 says, "If you say, "But we knew nothing about this," does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay each person according to what he has done?"

* Proverbs 14:12 "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death."

* Colossians 2:8 "See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ."

* Innocence is a deception of all. "I am innocent." "I was coerced." "The devil made me think those thoughts." "I had no choice." "I have a valid reason." "My genes are the reason why I do these things." "I was made with a flaw." These are the claims of the guilty. "...but motives are weighed by the LORD." All are guilty. (Romans 3:23)

Apostle Paul states it this way, "My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me. Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts." (1 Corinthians 4:4-5)

"If you say, 'But we knew nothing about this,' does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay each person according to what he has done?" (24:12)

King David fully aware of his antiquity pleaded, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." (Psalm 139:23-24) Simon Peter confessed to Jesus, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!" Jesus said to Simon, "Don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men." (Luke 5:8)

Know your sinful state. Fear the Lord God. Repent and ask for forgiveness before it is too late and judgment time has arrived.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:2.

>What does it mean to commit to the LORD?

* Proverbs 16:3 "Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed."

* "Commit to the LORD whatever you do"

* "your plans will succeed."

* 1 Peter 5:6-7 "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."

* The truth is clear in this proverb. "Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed." What does it mean to commit to the LORD? Looking up the original Hebrew word, "galal" does not answer the question since its few uses differ. The American Heritage Dictionary's first definition of commit is "to do, perform, or perpetrate." The second is "to put in trust or charge." The fifth is "to put into a place to be kept safe or to be disposed of." So committing to the LORD is doing for the LORD and trusting him with the final accomplishment for he is the one in charge of everything that is needed for the act and affects the act.

The phrase "whatever you do" is "maaseah" in the original Hebrew meaning "works, activities, labor, deeds, and efforts". It is not specific.

"Your plans" in the second half of the proverb in the original Hebrew is "machashebeth" and is elsewhere translated as "thought, purpose, imagination, and invention". Thus, this proverb is akin to the proverb in verse 1.

God does not frown on planning, thought, purpose, imagination, and invention unless they do not conform to that which is good, just, and right. God gives these gifts with full intent and understanding that each person will use them for that which is good, moral, ethical, just, and right. Through these God is glorified.

For me, this is to learn, understand, develop, and use the gifts God gives me, commit them to him, and I will through him succeed.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:3.

>2. What does it mean to be sovereign? (4)

* Proverbs 16:4 "The LORD works out everything for his own ends-- even the wicked for a day of disaster."

* "The LORD works out everything"

* "for his own ends"

* "even the wicked for a day of disaster."

* God is sovereign. "The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it." (Psalm 24:1) Sovereignty means that God is in all and overall. Being sovereign means that God is the source of all and that all things come from and depend on God. Being sovereign means that the LORD works out everything for his own ends. God is sovereign beyond comprehension.

Divine sovereignty does not mean that everything which occurs in the world is God's will. God has created a world with freedom. Without freedom, love is not authentic. Without love is hate. Hate is a possibility in God's design, but it is not his desire nor will. Hate is choosing not to love God. Hate is wicked. The wicked have a day of disaster. This is not God's desire, yet it is a possibility in his sovereign design.

Today I have the freedom to love God. If I chose to not love God then I hate God. If I hate God then I made a wicked choice. Making the wicked choice to not love God makes me wicked. The wicked having a day of disaster is his sovereign will. To Pharaoh who repeatedly chose to hate God the Lord said, "But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth." (Exodus 9:16)

"The LORD works out everything for his own ends-- even the wicked for a day of disaster."

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:4.

>What is pride of heart? (5)

* Proverbs 16:5 "The LORD detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished."

* "The LORD detests"

* "all the proud of heart"

* "Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished."

* Proverbs 11:20-21 "The LORD detests men of perverse heart but he delights in those whose ways are blameless. Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished, but those who are righteous will go free."

* Pride of heart is confidence in myself; my own skills, accomplishments, state, possessions, heritage, race, and position. The LORD detests pride of heart. Why? Because it does not recognize that the Lord God is the one who made it all possible. Many verses speak of these things.

I can be happy that I finished a project or a task. That doesn't mean that I am proud, though I still could be. It all depends if I give God the credit in my heart and with my lips. God makes all things possible. To believe otherwise is false. The Lord detests that. So, his plans are to punish them as a sign to others.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:5.

>What is atonement? (6)

* Proverbs 16:6 "Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the LORD a man avoids evil."

* "Through love" -"Hesed" in the original Hebrew. Some other translations use "mercy".

* "Through... faithfulness" -"Emet" in the original Hebrew. Some other translations use "truth".

* "sin is atoned for" -"Awon kapar" in the original Hebrew. Some other translations use "iniquity is purged".

* "through the fear of the LORD a man avoids evil." -Fear of the LORD is a common theme in the book of Proverbs. Here its action in the heart is revealed.

* The moral quality of conduct that God desires is sometimes summed up as "love and faithfulness" (3:3; Hosea 4:11) When his people repent of sin and bring their lives into accord with his will, god forgives and withdraws his judgment (Isaiah 1:18-19, 55:7; Jeremiah 3:22; Ezekiel 18:23, 30-32, 33:11-12, 14-16; Hosea 14:1-2, 4) Thus, it can be said that love and faithfulness, in a manner of speaking, "atone for" sin, i.e. they turn away God's wrath against it. (NIV study Bible)

* "Atoned for" in the original Hebrew here and elsewhere in the Old Testament is "kapar". These are theological terms for God's provision to deal with human sin; in the Old Testament, it primarily means purification. In some contexts, forgiveness, pardon, expiation, propitiation, or reconciliation is included. The basis of atonement is a substitution sacrifice offered by faith. The Old Testament sacrifices in the Law were types and shadows of the great and final sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.

"Fear" in the original Hebrew here and elsewhere in the Old Testament is "yira". No single English word conveys every aspect of "yira". The meaning includes worshipful submission, reverential awe, and obedient respect to the covenant-keeping God of Israel. Such conscience emotion evokes the desire to avoid evil. Knowing that God is holy and that holiness surrounds him, so then I want to be holy so I may be near him.

This proverb is about how I may draw near to God as he draws near to me. First, through his atoning sacrifice of crucifixion. Second, through a conscience obedient fear of him.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:6.

>3. What does verse 7 mean in regard to Jesus' teachings on how to deal with enemies? (Matthew 5:43-45)

* Proverbs 16:7 "When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him."

* "When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD,"

* "he makes even his enemies"

* "live at peace with him."

* The fact that I have enemies sticks out in this proverb. A few people come to mind who were and are a foe. The devil also comes to mind. He is an enemy of the Lord and so an enemy of mine. (Matthew 13:39) Jesus has enemies which is apparent when he walked the earth. The way Jesus responded to his enemies is not how most respond to an enemy.

Jesus teaching on how to respond to enemies takes faith to live by. He taught, "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:43-45) The apostles echo, "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." (Romans 12:18-21) And, "Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord." (Hebrews 12:14)

The Christian response to an enemy is possible with the strength of the Spirit and the assurance in this proverb. "When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him." (Proverbs 16:7) The Lord is a peacemaker and I am his disciple. I will follow his example by being a peacemaker.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:7.

>How does the Bible define justice?

* Proverbs 16:8 "Better a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice."

* "Better a little with righteousness"

* "than much gain with injustice."

* Injustice (mishpawt in Hebrew) and justice (mishpaw in Hebrew) are central to the Old Testament ethics as love is central to the New Testament living. Biblical justice is the standard for both punishment and benefits. (Isaiah 28:17) Justice is the order God seeks to reestablish in His creation. Righteousness in thought, attitude, and action is the means to determine if a person is just. A large part of Jesus' ministry was to "proclaim justice to the nations." (Matthew 12:18, 20; 23:23; Luke 18:8)

Understanding what justice is for God makes the why of this proverb known. Why is a little righteousness better than much gain with injustice? Because God uses these to determine a person's eternal future. 10:2 says, "Ill-gotten treasures are of no value, but righteousness delivers from death." Paul declared in the meeting of the Areopagus, "...For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead." (Acts 17:31)

My response to this revelation is to heed what Paul said twice to Timothy, "But you, man of God, flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, peace, endurance, and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses." (1 Timothy 6:11-12; 2 Timothy 2:22)

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:8.

>How often do you make plans?

* Proverbs 16:9 "In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps."

* "In his heart"

* "a man plans his course"

* "the LORD determines his steps."

* Having a plan is not the same as having a dream or a desire. Having a plan is better than wasting away on the couch. Having a plan does not mean it is a good or wise plan even though everyone thinks it is. Having a plan does not guarantee that the plan will succeed even though I have all that is needed to accomplish the plan. Having a plan does not mean that every step of the plan will work out as planned. Having a plan does not mean that there will be setbacks, hardships, trials, and disasters along the way even though it seems simple and easy in the beginning.

Having a plan can only include me, but most plans involve others. Having a plan that involves others does not mean that everyone will like the plan.

Having a plan does not mean that my plan is God's plan even though I may consider myself a man of God. Having a plan does not mean that I am the one who determines the steps. "In his heart, a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps."

Having a plan is God's way for he has a plan and "I know that God can do all things; no plan of God can be thwarted." (Job 42:2) It is better to go along with God's plan even though I don't understand it, than to continue a plan that I fully understand, am enthusiastic about, and is not God's will.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:9.

>What is an oracle and how can a king speak them?

* Proverbs 16:10 "The lips of a king speak as an oracle, and his mouth should not betray justice."

* "The lips of a king speak as an oracle"

* "his mouth should not betray justice."

* According to King Solomon in the first half of this proverb, the words the king speaks such as in court sessions is "qesem" in Hebrew. English Bible translates qesem as an oracle, divine sentence, God's verdict, oath, and divine revelation. Like a prophecy and revelation, a "qesem" is a communication from God. The term usually refers to a divine response to a question asked of God and also to pronouncements and decisions made by God without being asked. False religious practices which required payments also used the term qesem (Hosea 4:12). God did not require payment.

The proverb is a warning. Since the king was in a position under God's anointment he should not betray justice. When cases are brought before the king, he functioned as God's representative (Deuteronomy 1:17). Therefore, the king should heed the divine gift of wisdom to discern between right and wrong in order to render God's judgment. (1 Kings 3:9) When he did so, his lips was equivalent to a divine oracle for the people. (2 Samuel 14:17, 20, 19:27)

The modern equivalent to a "qesem" is communicating God's truth to others whether it be speaking in front of the entire congregation in weekly meetings, in group Bible studies, in one-to-one Bible studies, and writing books and on the internet such as BDBD and FreeBibleStudyHelp.com. I am to be careful when I speak and type on the keyboard not to betray God's truth and justice.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:10.

>How can verse 11 be true?

* Proverbs 16:11 "Honest scales and balances are from the LORD; all the weights in the bag are of his making."

* "Honest scales and balances"

* "are from the LORD"

* "all the weights in the bag"

* "are of his making."

* The proverb says that the Lord God owns just and honest weights and balances, he made all the stones for measuring. This refers to his judgment of everyone's soul. "...the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12)

God wrote on the wall to King Belshazzar, "Mene, mene, tekel, parsin". The prophet Daniel translated the four words and explained their meaning. Tekel means, "You have been weighed on the scales and found wanting." (Daniel 5:25, 27) Job declared, "...let God weigh me in honest scales and he will know that I am blameless..." (Job 31:6)

God made the stones, that is the means to determine the weight of a person's soul. Does it have value? He is honest and just in his judgment. The means to determine a person's value is based on their actions and thoughts. Are they pure and just? Is a person true?

The Lord God weighed me and I was found wanting. Yet, through Christ, he has given me value. He forgave my sins through Christ. Now I am valuable. Now the Lord wants me. He holds me in his wallet.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:12.

II. The Second Eleven (16:12-22)

* This drawing in public domain from a book by Luiken, Jan (1649-1712) is titled "Beschouwing der wereld : bestaande in hondert konstige figuuren, met godlyke spreuken en stichtelyke verzen / door Jan Luiken." The titled "The Forest: It Is Unsafe". In a dark forest a hiker, with a walking stick and rucksack, looks behind him for hidden dangers. The Dutch artist and poet Jan Luiken (1649-1712) was responsible for drawing this emblem and composed the poem that accompanies it. The etching was executed by Jan Luiken or his son Casper Luiken (1672-1708), who had used this image in an earlier work. The attendant scriptures are Proverbs 11:5 and Proverbs 16:17. Courtesy of the Digital Image Archive, Pitts Theology Library, Candler School of Theology, Emory University: http://www.pitts.emory.edu.

The motto is "Before and behind, Is danger". The accompanying poem is:

>4. What is the righteousness that verse 12 is referring to?

* Proverbs 16:12 "Kings detest wrongdoing, for a throne is established through righteousness."

* "Kings detest wrongdoing"

* "for a throne is established"

* "through righteousness."

* I do not know how it is to live in a country with a king or queen for I have lived my whole life in a country that has a democracy. I have visited several countries that are also democracies. No one that I have ever met has lived in a kingdom either. I have read books and watched television and movies, but that is not the same as experiencing monarch rule my whole life.

At various times in my life, I have briefly wondered what would it be like to be king. The question is unanswerable to even a person who is honest about the nature of mankind. We are made in the image of God; yet, tainted by a strong sinful impulse. This is apparent when over two hundred years ago monarchy after monarchy saw their citizen rebel against kingdom rule. Like most people, a monarch detests wrongdoing unless it is them that does wrong. Then we justify it away.

The King of kings, Jesus certainly detests wrongdoing. Yet, reacts to it with love, compassion, and wisdom. He also made many astonishing, baffling, and beautiful statements, For example: "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." (Matthew 5:17) "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword." (Matthew 10:34) "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Mark 2:17; Luke 5:32) "I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!" (Luke 12:49) "For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind." (John 9:39)

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:12.

>What often happens to people when they are trying to get favors from authority? (13)

* Proverbs 16:13 "Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value a man who speaks the truth."

* "Kings take pleasure"

* "in honest lips"

* "they value a man who speaks the truth."

* I claim to be a follower of Jesus the Christ; thus a Christian by name. I am in the kingdom of heaven. (Daniel 2:44, 7:27; Matthew 4:17, 5:3, 10) Jesus is my king. (Matthew 7:21, 16:19, 19:14) What can I do to please my king? This proverb provides one answer, "Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value a man who speaks the truth."

Jesus confers. When the apostles were persecuted, told not to speak in Jesus' name, and thrown in jail, Jesus opened the prison doors and told them, "Go, stand in the temple courts and tell the people the full message of this new life." (Acts 5:20) According to Jesus to have honest lips is to know and obey King's Jesus' command here. What then is the full message of this new life?

"The full message" includes Christ's cross, Christ's resurrection, Christ's ascension, Christ's sending of the Spirit to his people, his people living by the Spirit and by faith, having the hope of the second coming of Jesus, and loving each other as He has loved us.

"The new life" is a term not heard in congregations anymore. Jesus introduced through his teachings and his apostles a new way of living, not a new idea. The new life is dynamic and vibrant. Paul calls it living by the Spirit. (Rom. 8:13, Gal. 5:25) Other people in the first century called it The Way. (Acts 9:2) The life the first disciples were living wasn't a commune; rather it was in communion with Jesus and his people through the Holy Spirit.

To speak the truth is to relay Jesus' teachings found in the Bible.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:13.

>How might it be possible to appease a king's wrath?

* Proverbs 16:14 "A king's wrath is a messenger of death, but a wise man will appease it."

* "A king's wrath"

* "is a messenger of death,"

* "a wise man will appease it."

* Wrath is punishment as a manifestation of anger. God's anger is due to sin. God's anger manifests as retribution. Retribution in regards to God's wrath is justly given in repayment for the wrong done and right not done.

God's wrath is seen when he kept Adam and Eve from eating fruit from the Tree of Life after they sinned. (Genesis 3:21-24) God's wrath is seen when he brought a flood to the whole earth because everyone was corrupt and violent. (Genesis 6:11-13) God's wrath is seen when the Lord God scattered the people building the tower in Bable. (Genesis 11:5-8) God's wrath was manifested when Ananias and his wife lied about the offering they freely gave. (Acts 5:1-10) "The king's wrath is a messenger of death..."Jesus displayed anger and rebuked his apostles for not believing others that said he had risen from the dead. (Mark 16:14)

The Lord God becomes angry with sin and his wrath is poured out, but not right away. It is possible to appease God's wrath. The person who does so is wise according to this verse. 2 Peter 3:9 states, "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."

So how to appease the King's anger and wrath? "Love covers all wrong." (10:12) "He who covers over an offense promotes love." (17:9) The Lord God says, "Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other." (Isaiah 45:22)

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son." (John 3:16-18)

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:14.

>5. Why does our mood affect our actions towards others so much? (15)

* Proverbs 16:15 "When a king's face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring."

* "When a king's face brightens"

* "it means life"

* "his favor is like a rain cloud in spring."

* The spring for a farmer is the time for planting. The seeds and young saplings need water to keep growing. When it rains the farmers are happy. Their faces light up with a smile and a warm heart. The saplings will live. They are healthy. The hope for a crop in the fall seems more plausible.

Those who have lived in a monarch know that when their king's face brightens good things will come to all. A king's smile means life for many and a good one at that. The citizens know life will grow. The saplings will live. They are healthy.

Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords. (Mark 12:36-37; Revelation 19:16) What makes his face light up with a smile and warm heart? What pleases the King of kings, thus ensuring life for many and a good one at that?

Jeremiah 9:24 says, "'Let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice, and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,' declares the LORD." Restating previous verses from past BDBDs; "The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful." (12:2) "The LORD detests men of perverse heart but he delights in those whose ways are blameless." (11:20) "The LORD abhors dishonest scales, but accurate weights are his delight." (11:1)

So in my life of faith in Jesus, the King of kings when he is pleased that I do things I know that I will live life to the full.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:15.

>Can you think of any examples of people who were wealthy and yet were worse off then those who have only enough to service? (16)

* Proverbs 16:16 "How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver!"

* "How much better to get wisdom than gold"

* "to choose understanding rather than silver!"

* Why is it better to get wisdom and chose understanding than to have silver or gold? When a fool has material wealth and travels the whole world in luxury, power, and fame but not wisdom, they will expose themself to harm and all their wealth will not help them. When a person gets wisdom and chooses to understand they can avoid harmful practices and maintain a healthy lifestyle that does not require great wealth.

Alexander the Greek is a good example. Though his military paralysis was well known he died at 32 years old after a night and day of excessive drinking and partying.

Howard Hughes's net worth is believed to have been 11 billion dollars when he died in 1976. He had fame, power, and wealth. Yet, he became known for his eccentric behavior and reclusive lifestyle-oddities that were caused in part by his worsening obsessive-compulsive disorder, chronic pain from a near-fatal plane crash, vague fears, and increasing deafness. He died a lonely miserable man.

No one celebrates Alexander and Howard though most know a little about them. Jesus however, is honored, worshiped, respected, and praised even though he was a poor carpenter and then a traveling rabbi. More than that he is honored by God and sits eternally in the highest seat.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:16.

>When we have to make hard life choices what should be kept in mind? (17)

* Proverbs 16:17 "The highway of the upright avoids evil; he who guards his way guards his life."

* "The highway of the upright"

* "avoids evil"

* "he who guards his way"

* "guards his life."

* This proverb repeats a common theme in the book of Proverbs. Most can understand the meaning behind, "The highway of the upright avoids evil; he who guards his way guards his life." However, many today do not accept nor believe this. If they do believe it they have their own definition of evil. Why do so few today accept the lifestyle that avoids evil? Why do so many believe what is wrong is right, and what is right is wrong?

Jesus taught, "This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed." (John 3:19-20) Human nature is to fear the truth because of a lack of trust in the love and forgiveness of God.

Do I dare to step into the light? Do I trust God enough to be fully exposed in front of God? "Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them... But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said: "Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." (Ephesians 5:11, 13-14) Every day I need to take time to let the light of Christ shine on me so that my character and God's way may be seen.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:17.

>6. How does pride destroy the life of the haughty?

* Proverbs 16:18 "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall."

* "Pride... a haughty spirit"

* "goes before destruction... before a fall."

*

* Pride and a haughty spirit are the same; an over-rated opinion of one's self. Hidden and silent pride is the belief that we have control over things that no human can control. A reality of human existence that the proud ignores are vast and suttle weakness we all possess. The haughty falsely believe that if we convince ourself we have an ability then we will master it. Like sheep a haughty spirit is unaware of true dangers and afraid of things that are not a danger.

Logically this proverb is always fulfilled because the proud and haughty spirit eventually is trapped by a true danger thst they believed they could overcome. No one comes to their aid because everyone loves to see a the bragging arrogant get what is coming to them. We enjoy seeing them brought down to size and secretly hope they are pushed even lower.

The way of humility is better. Not a false humility. But a realization of limitations of the human experience.

Note the recording says 19, but it IS for 18.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:18.

>What is the Bible referring to when it refers to being lowly in spirit?

* Proverbs 16:19 "Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud."

* "lowly in spirit"

* "and among the oppressed"

* "share plunder with the proud."

* "Better to be lowly in spirit" reminds of Jesus' beginning of The Beatitudes, "Blessed are the poor in spirit." When life is going well people don't want to hear such things because they would rather believe they are blessed and thus don't want to be low in spirit to be blessed. When life is not going well people often believe that they are being punished or are cursed because of something they did and can't forget or something they can't remember because they believe they are righteous.

Being "lowly in spirit", "poor in spirit", and "humble in spirit" are translations of the Hebrew phrase "shapal ruah" meaning being depressed to the core of our being. Everyone finds times in our lives more than we care to admit that we are lowly in spirit. It is strange to believe that such a state is blessed and better than to be experiencing the good life. Yet, God states that it is. Why?

"This is what the high and lofty One says-- he who lives forever, whose name is holy: 'I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite.'" (Isaiah 57:15) Jesus agrees and clarifies, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:3)

On the contrary, he is not with the proud who plunder. "He mocks proud mockers" (3:34) Their doom is sure.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:19.

>Why is trusting in the LORD being blessed? (20)

* Proverbs 16:20 "Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD."

* "Whoever gives heed"

* "to instruction prospers"

* "blessed"

* "he who trusts in the LORD."

* Trust is a vital part of having a happy and prosperous life. That is why trust is the subject of several proverbs (3:5-6, 16:3, 21:22, 22:19, 28:25). Trusting in the Lord Jesus is a blessed life. Trusting in Jesus relieves stress. Jesus proclaimed, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me." (John 14:1)

Trusting in God is not easy. Trusting in God starts with small things and builds to trusting in him for more vital things. I use to think that trust is earned. Though that may be true to an extent, what it misses is that I also need to learn to trust -first in small things and later in greater things. Trust is a decision more than merit.

A good measure to determine my level of trust in God is to look at my prayers. How much do I pray? What do I pray about? What is my mindset when I pray? How I treat others is also a good way to determine my level of trust in God. A person who freely gives and helps others at their own expense and peril without self-acclaim is a mark of a person who trusts in God's provision. "Offer right sacrifices and trust in the LORD." (Psalm 4:5)

When Jesus heard a ruler's self-righteous brag, he said to him, "You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." (Luke 18:22) Now that takes trust to obey.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:20.

>7. What form of instruction is promoted in verse 21?

* Proverbs 16:21 "The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction."

* "The wise in heart"

* "are called discerning"

* "pleasant words promote instruction."

* A discerning person is perceptive. So are wise instructors. Good teachers, speakers, and preachers are keen on their audience just as celebrated musical artists are attuned to their instruments. The pleasant words of an instructor are akin to notes played in tune and cadence, and voices sung in harmony. Pleasant words make an orator persuasive. Rash words turn the audience away.

Every day I have an audience; people I encounter. Either conscience or not we are each other's audience. Being called to share the good news by my master I can learn from him, the master musician. He was aware of his audience whether one person or thousands. He spoke pleasant words and many in his audience were persuaded to believe in him.

May the Lord enable me to be discerning with pleasant words to promote his instruction. I want to play on key and in cadence today whether in writing, word, or action.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:21.

>What is a fountain of life in verse 22? (Psalm 36:6b-9)

* Proverbs 16:22 "Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools."

* "Understanding" -Understanding in the original Hebrew is "sekel" (a transliteration). Sekel can also be translated "wisdom", "prudence", and "sense". "Sekel" is from "sakal" meaning "intelligence" and by implication "success". Other Hebrew words are also translated as understanding.
Understanding is found many times in proverbs making it a common thread in the book. (1:2,6, 2:3,6,11, 3:5,13,19, 4:1,5,7, 7:4, 8:1,5,14, 9:6,10, 10:23, 11:12, 13:15, etc.)

* "fountain of life" -The phrase in the original Hebrew is "maqor hay". The phrase "fountain of life" or "wellspring of life" is found four times in the book of Proverbs. (10:11, 13:14, 14:27, 16:22) Psalm 36:6b-9 reveals the Biblical meaning.

* Psalm 36:6b-9 "...O LORD, you preserve both man and beast. How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light."

* "folly brings punishment to fools."

* I found myself looking at the meaning of words and phrases this morning. What is understanding since it is such a common word in the book of Proverbs? What is a proverb and a parable? What is a fountain of life?

Ponce de León, according to some received a contract from the King of Spain in 1512 to explore and settle an island called Bimini (now known as Florida) because he believed the native Cubans that it contained a secret hidden Fountain of Youth -drink from it and one would remain young. He did not find it and was called a fool. The mythical fountain of youth is not the same as the Biblical fountain of life.

Psalm 36:6b-9 states, ".O LORD, you preserve both man and beast. How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light." The love of God is the fountain of life.

Jesus revealed the secret to a woman seeking water from a well. "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water... Everyone who drinks this water -you want to draw from Jacob's well- will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." (John 10,13)

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:22.

III. The Third Eleven (16:23-33)

* This drawing in public domain from a book by Luiken, Jan (1649-1712) is titled "Spiegel van het menselyk bedryf : vertoonende honderd verscheiden ambachten, konstig afgebeeld en met godlyke spreuken en stichtelyke verzen verryke / door Jan en Kasper Luiken" The titled is "The Sugar Refiner ". The sugar refiner steps outside carrying a large sugar loaf, of which several lie already on the foreground; behind him three other workmen. Two workmen wash fabric in the canal; a church is situated on the other side of the canal. The Dutch artist and poet Jan Luiken (1649-1712) was responsible for drawing this emblem and for creating the motto and poem that follow. Jan Luiken and/or his son Casper Luiken (1672-1708) were responsible for its etching. The attendant scripture text is Proverbs 16:24. Courtesy of the Digital Image Archive, Pitts Theology Library, Candler School of Theology, Emory University: http://www.pitts.emory.edu.

The motto is "In Christ's blood, Lay divine sweetness.". The accompanying poem is:

>8. Why is it important to know what guides the mouth?

* Proverbs 16:23 "A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction."

* "A wise man's heart"

* "guides his mouth"

* "his lips promote instruction."

*

* A three-step action-reaction interplay is presented. The wise's heart guides their mouth and the mouth promotes instruction. The heart is a person's soul, their center of being meaning their mind, will, and feelings. A person can control their heart depending on the level of discipline. Yet, even the most disciplined cannot constrain the core of their being all the time. The hidden nature is eventually revealed and words are spoken that either build up or tear down.

The key to being a blessing to others lies in allowing God to change the heart. Twice the Lord God gave a promise to his people sitting in exile through the prophet Ezekiel. "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws." (Ezekiel 36:26-28) The ability to speak the best words to others is to allow the Lord to make his throne in my heart.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:23.

>What should verse 24 motivate us to do?

* Proverbs 16:24 "Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones."

* "Pleasant words"

* "are a honeycomb"

* "sweet to the soul"

* "healing to the bones."

* My grandfather was a dairy farmer. He would receive dairy farmer magazines in the mail. One day he read in a milker's magazine that cows produced more milk if they they were talked to while milking. So he put his radio in the milkng parlor and turned on the AM news. I don't think the cows liked the news because they didn't produce more milk. He should have put on some pleasant sounds because as Solomon wrote, "Pleasant words are... sweet to the soul and healing to the bones."

Similarly, a report came out that infants mature better when classical music is played in their presence. I don't know about that, but I have noticed that my children change demeanor when they were infants when I talked in a pleasant voice to them.

Solomon doesn't give an age limit in this proverb. Pleasant words are better than harsh and rash words. I can be a blessing merely by milking my lips to bring forth more sweet and healing words.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:24.

>How do we convince ourselves that we are right when in fact we are not?

* Proverbs 16:25 "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death."

* "There is a way"

* "hat seems right"

* "in the end it leads to death."

* Recently I took a vacation. I went to a place I had been to several times, the last time around five years ago. This time I was going to the vacation spot from the opposite side of its location. I followed the GPS and made it there with no detours or slowdowns. Going home the GPS guided me to take a different way. I didn't want to go that way because I knew a shorter distance to home. So I took the shortest way home. I was sure I had made the right choice, but in time, I soon found out that the short distance was the longest time because the traffic was very slow due to several accidents. The GPS was guiding me around the accidents.

The proverb in verse 25 does not concern the way to get home from a vacation, though some may apply it to a trip home. It can also be applied to lifestyle choices but is not meant to be applied to lifestyles because all die no matter what choices are made. Rather, this proverb concerns the way to eternal life in paradise.

How then to know the right way? How can I not fool myself? I turn to God for the answer to the question, "Which way is the right way to eternal life in paradise after I die?" 1 Corinthians 15:22 says, "For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive." Jesus said so himself. He taught, "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Matthew 7:13) "I am the way and the truth and the life," Jesus declared. "No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6)

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:25.

>Why do some refuse to work until they are hungry? (26)

* Proverbs 16:26 "The laborer's appetite works for him; his hunger drives him on."

* "The laborer's"

* "appetite works for him"

* "his hunger drives him on."

* The practical nature of this proverb is simple to understand. Having a craving like hunger and a desire for sustenance forces a person to work. The Holy Spirit thru Paul tells Christians, "If a man will not work, he shall not eat." (2 Thessalonians 3:10) Not identical, but a similar subject. The Spirit parallels this with, "He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need." (Ephesians 4:28) Not working is equated with stealing.

What is not so obvious is that there is another application of these verses besides the obvious feeding the pains of hunger for food. Why do we labor for God and others who are not my own family? What appetite drives me to continue to work for the Lord? If I become idle or want to stop, what hunger can drive me on? What do I crave that moves me to charity? The wrong reason will find me stopping.

I am reminded, "...do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For in just a very little while, "He who is coming will come and will not delay. But my righteous one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him." (Hebrews 10:35-38) When Jesus comes he will bring either a reward or a reprimand to his people for the passage in the book of Hebrews is to Christians. As stated in 6:6, "Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise!"

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:26.

>What is a scorching fire?

* Proverbs 16:27 "A scoundrel plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire."

* "A scoundrel"

* "plots evil,"

* "his speech"

* "is like a scorching fire."

* The area that I grew up in was a swamp in generations past. No one, not even the Native Americans made permanent residence in the swamp. When my ancestors and their neighbors moved to the area they dug drainage ditches and lay clay tile lines in the rich dirt. When the drainage ditches filled up with wild vegetation they would set fires in the deep ditches. The scorching fire was controlled to obtain the required goal; a clear channel for the spring snowmelt and rain to be conducted away from the sprouting crops to the great lakes.

The inflammatory speeches and posts of many these days are like the scorching ditch fires of my youth. The truth is burned so their lies will have a clear channel to the souls of their victims. Their purpose is to bring wealth to their evil empire. "A scoundrel plots (digs up) evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire." (See also 6:12-15; Micah 2:1-3; James 3:6)

Rather than point blaming fingers at the wicked and fight fire with fire I should first examine my soul. What motives and plans do I ignite in the recesses of my mind? Jesus taught, "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." (Matthew 7:3-5) That is the point of this proverb. Examine me to see if I am the scoundrel who plots evil and then repent.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:27.

* The engraving from a book "Beschouwing der wereld : bestaande in hondert konstige figuuren, met godlyke spreuken en stichtelyke verzen / door Jan Luiken" by Luiken, Jan (1649-1712) now in public domain is titled "The Hill: So as Not to Go Astray". In a valley, two hikers point to a man standing on a hill from which he surveys his surroundings. The Dutch artist and poet Jan Luiken (1649-1712) was responsible for drawing this emblem and composed the poem that accompanies it. The etching was executed by Jan Luiken or his son Casper Luiken (1672-1708), who had used this image in an earlier work. The attendant scriptures are Proverbs 5:23 and Proverbs 16:25. Courtesy of the Digital Image Archive, Pitts Theology Library, Candler School of Theology, Emory University: http://www.pitts.emory.edu.

The motto is "One walks with care, Along his life's path through this time". The accompanying poem is:

>9. Why might the perverse and gossips be in the same parable?

* Proverbs 16:28 "A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends."

* "A perverse man"

* "stirs up dissension"

* "a gossip"

* "separates close friends."

* A person who stirs up dissension is perverse. Whether planned or caused by a slip of the tongue, the action is still from a depraved soul. Dissension means strife, contention, and a sharp difference of opinion. The opposite is a peacemaker. Jesus promised, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." (Matthew 5:9)

A gossip in generations past used to be called a tale-bearer and a whisperer. The Hebrew word "nirgan" is from a root meaning "to roll to pieces". A gossip tells rumors or talk of a personal, sensational, or intimate nature. A gossiper believes that what they are saying is harmless. Yet, they separate close friends and tear apart society (11:13). "...without gossip a quarrel dies down." (26:20)

The day begins. I need to pray that I am a peacemaker. The day ends I need to examine my behavior to see if what I said separated others. Where I did so I need to repent and correct.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:28.

>Why are some included to entice other to sin and what does this say about them? (29)

* Proverbs 16:29 "A violent man entices his neighbor and leads him down a path that is not good."

* "A violent man"

* "entices his neighbor"

* "leads him down a path that is not good."

* Matthew 7:15-20 "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them."

* Some have a liking to entice their neighbor to be ill-behaved. This proverb is clear. Such people are violent in nature. The Hebrew word "pata" here, translated as "entice" and "lure" is in a passive-aggressive sense. The violent hunter is pleased to see their victim slowly destroy themselves as they lead them to walk down destructive paths (6:14, 36:4). All the while the veiled guide portrays themselves as kind and helpful. Jesus called them wolves in sheep's clothing. (Matthew 7:15)

I need to be alert for I have seen that these wolves hide everywhere including the Lord's congregations. I also need to check my actions. Do I at times become a wolf. Do I lure people to do things that are good for me, but harmful to them? I need to remember the Lord's warning. "He who leads the upright along an evil path will fall into his own trap, but the blameless will receive a good inheritance." (Proverbs 28:10)

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:29.

>What does it mean when a person purses their lips? (30)

* Proverbs 16:30 "He who winks with his eye is plotting perversity; he who purses his lips is bent on evil."

* "He who winks with his eye is plotting perversity"

* "he who purses his lips"

* " is bent on evil."

* Intention to commit a sin is the same as committing a sin. This is true because whether a sin is in the mind or act, it comes from the same perverse soul. Jesus taught, "You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart." (Matthew 5:27-28) And the laws concerning coveting equates an intent with an act. Both are sins.

This proverb states the same. "He who winks with his eye is plotting perversity; he who purses his lips is bent on evil." Winking the eye is intent. Pursing lips insinuates evil without saying a word by tightly forcing lips shut to stop from speaking. Other proverbs have already said the same thing (6:12-14, 10:10)

No matter how hard I work at it, I cannot change the core of my being. This is true for all. David, who was a man after God's own heart declared, "Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me." Paul through the Spirit wrote, "What shall we conclude then? Are we any better? Not at all! We have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under sin. As it is written: 'There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God. All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one.'" (Romans 3:9-12)

Yet a way exists for a perverse heart to be changed. When asked by his disciples, "Who can be saved!" Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God." (Luke 18:26-27)

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:30.

>10. What is the common reason a person has gray hair?

* Proverbs 16:31 "Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life."

* "Gray hair"

* "is a crown of splendor"

* "it is attained by a righteous life."

* The body changes as we age no matter what lifestyle is kept. After birth, we increase in size. The cranial bones continue to expand till they meet to form one solid hard cap. As adolescents men and women hormones flow as the bodies change in unique male and female ways both externally visible and internal functions. And if we live into old age hair turns gray. These changes happen if we live long enough to go through these universally normal changes. This is the point of this proverb -living long enough to have gray hair.

Earlier this week I was talking with the pastor of the congregation I attend about changes and the book of Proverbs. I am approaching the diamond jubilee. He is several years younger than me. Yet, both he and I know several people who had made poor lifestyle choices and as a result died at a younger age than they should have. The person who lives a righteous life has a much better chance of living long enough to have gray hair. Thus, this proverb labels gray hair as the crown of splendor. Leviticus 19:32 even says all should rise in the presence of the aged and they should show the aged respect.

The book of Proverbs is mainly directed toward young teenagers and those in their twenties. The wise young man and woman who desire to live a long life will seek those who have grey hair to learn secrets on how to live long.

No one who has gray hair is without sin and faults. Not everyone who has gray hair lived most of those years righteously. Yet, most with gray hair can share wisdom on decisions that will increase to odds of living a long life.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:31.

>Why does does the proverb in 32 state patience is better and not a person of peace?

* Proverbs 16:32 "Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city."

* "Better a patient man"

* "than a warrior"

* "a man who controls his temper"

* "than one who takes a city."

* Proverbs 14:29 "A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly."

* Proverbs 15:18 "A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel."

* Proverbs 19:11 "A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense."

* James 1:19-20 "My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires."

* Ecclesiastes 9:18 "Wisdom is better than weapons of war, but one sinner destroys much good."

* Patience is compared to uncontrolled temper elsewhere in Proverbs and other books in the Bible (14:29, 15:18, 19:11; James 1:19-20; Ecclesiastes 9:18). The FreeBibleStudyHelp.com commentaries for 14:29 and 15:18 discusses the virtue of patience and the commentary for Ecclesiastes 9:18 discusses the benefit of controlling emotions.

This proverb does not say that going to war and taking cities in wars is wrong, only that patience is better. Valid reasons exist for going to war. When Israel was commanded to take the promised land, Canaan they were told by God to go to war against its sinful occupants. (Exodus 23:23-33) Many cities and nations have falsely used the name of God to go to war. That is wrong.

An interesting observation is that the proverb does not say, "Better a man of peace than a warrior..." Rather it says, "Better a patient man..." Why patience? Patient for what? Patient for God. Deuteronomy 32:35 is quoted in Romans 12:19 and Hebrew 10:30, "'It is mine to avenge, I will repay', says the Lord."

On a personal level when I am in the presence of others I am to remain in control of my temper as Jesus was when he encountered hostility and stubborn refusal to acknowledge and believe the truth. (Mark 3:5, 6:6, 16:14) When others harbor hate, I am to be patient for God to avenge.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:32.

>What is casting a lot in the lap and what is a modern equivalent?

* Proverbs 16:33 "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD."

* "The lot is cast into the lap" -The lot may have been several pebbles held in the fold of a garment and then drawn out or shaken to the ground. Or they where shaken in the hands and then dropped in the fold of a tunics lap. It was commonly use to make decisions (Exodus 28:30; Numbers 26:53; Nehemiah 11:1; John 1:7; Acts 1:26; Psalm 22:18)

* "but its every decision is from the LORD." -This is opposed to chance in the first half of the proverb. God is in control. God should be sought directly, not through random events and situations. God has given his Spirit to his people who call on the name of Jesus. Draw near to God and the Spirit will lead. God is always in charge and always capable to do what is best.

* Casting a lot in the lap was a way for the people in Solomon's day to determine their god(s) will. They did not wear pants. They wore long robes called a mantle from the neck to the ankles. They would take small stones or pebbles and cast them in the mantle's lap to determine their destiny and/or portion. Before that, they would ask a question believing that their god(s) would influence the stone(s) to land a certain way showing them a decision. The Crazy 8 from the 1970s had a similar purpose, though gods were not part of it.

This proverb counters this folly religious practice with the truth, "Every decision is from the LORD." The second half of the proverb is two Hebrew words, "mishpat YHWH". "Mishpat" means judgment, cause, ordinance, measure, and law. God, not chance or destiny is in control. Similar truths are stated in verses 1, 3, 4, 9, 19:21, and 21:31.

Similarly, at one time, I would look for ways to determine God's will in my life, something to help me make a decision. I would look at what was happening to determine God's will for me. Whether a big or little life decision was to be made I would turn over in my mind different scenarios, I would search my soul for fear of making a foolish decision.

Now I have faith in God in all decisions. I still think about what is the best course, but not fret about it. I make a decision and say to God, "I want your will because I know it is the best. This is what I decided. If it is foolish or not guide me to the best outcome for your glory." I take full responsibility all the while trusting God.

Listen to the above comments on Proverb 16:33.