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Proverbs 16

Prov 16, Pr 16, Prv 16


Proverbs 16

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.

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Summary and the Meaning of Proverbs 16 in the Book of Proverbs of KJV Holy Bible

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of sayings and teachings attributed to King Solomon, the wisest king in the Bible. It is a book of wisdom, offering practical advice on how to live a righteous and successful life. Chapter 16 of the Book of Proverbs continues this theme, with a focus on the sovereignty of God and the importance of seeking His will in all aspects of life. This chapter is filled with profound insights and guidance on various topics, including pride, humility, planning, and righteousness. In this article, we will explore the main themes of Proverbs 16 and the meaning it brings to our lives.

The Sovereignty of God

The first theme that stands out in Proverbs 16 is the sovereignty of God. The chapter begins with the famous verse, "The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the Lord" (Proverbs 16:1). This verse reminds us that even though we may make plans and decisions, ultimately, it is God who guides and directs our steps. This theme is reiterated throughout the chapter, highlighting the importance of seeking God's will and trusting in His plans for our lives.

Verse 3 says, "Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established." This verse encourages us to surrender our plans and desires to God, and He will establish them according to His perfect will. It reminds us that our success and prosperity come from God and not our own efforts.

The theme of God's sovereignty is also evident in verses 9 and 33, which state, "A man's heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps" and "The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord." These verses remind us that even though we may have our own plans and ideas, ultimately, it is God who orchestrates the outcomes and directs our paths.

Pride and Humility

Another prominent theme in Proverbs 16 is pride and humility. The chapter warns against the dangers of pride and encourages us to cultivate humility in our hearts. Verse 5 says, "Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished." This verse reminds us that pride is detestable to God, and it will ultimately lead to punishment.

Verse 18 famously states, "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall." This verse is a warning against the destructive nature of pride and the importance of cultivating humility. It is a reminder that no one is above God, and those who exalt themselves will eventually be brought down.

The chapter also highlights the benefits of humility. Verse 19 says, "Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud." This verse emphasizes that it is better to be humble and have a lowly position than to be proud and have worldly success. It reminds us that true success and blessings come from God, and it is important to remain humble in His sight.

Planning and Wisdom

Proverbs 16 also offers wisdom and guidance on the importance of planning and seeking wisdom. Verse 9 says, "A man's heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps." This verse reminds us that while we may make plans, ultimately, it is God who guides and directs our paths. However, this does not negate the importance of planning. In fact, verse 3 encourages us to commit our plans to the Lord, and He will establish them. This verse highlights the importance of seeking God's wisdom and guidance in our planning and decision-making.

Verse 16 says, "How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!" This verse emphasizes the value of wisdom and understanding, which are far more valuable than material possessions. It encourages us to prioritize seeking wisdom and understanding from God rather than chasing after worldly riches.

The chapter also warns against the dangers of foolishness and the importance of seeking wisdom. Verse 22 says, "Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly." This verse reminds us that wisdom is a source of life, while foolishness leads to destruction. It encourages us to seek wisdom and understanding from God to live a fulfilling and righteous life.

Righteousness and Integrity

Proverbs 16 also emphasizes the importance of living a righteous and upright life. Verse 6 says, "By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil." This verse highlights the cleansing power of mercy and truth, which come from God. It reminds us that living in the fear of the Lord and seeking His righteousness will lead us away from evil.

Verse 7 also speaks about the importance of living a life of integrity and righteousness. It says, "When a man's ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him." This verse reminds us that when we live according to God's ways, He will bless us and even make our enemies be at peace with us. It highlights the importance of living a life of integrity and righteousness, even in the face of opposition.

In conclusion, Proverbs 16 is a chapter filled with wisdom and guidance on various aspects of life. It reminds us of the sovereignty of God and the importance of seeking His will in all our plans and decisions. It also warns against the dangers of pride and encourages us to cultivate humility in our hearts. The chapter also emphasizes the value of wisdom and the importance of living a righteous and upright life. As we apply the teachings of Proverbs 16 to our lives, we can experience the blessings and favor of God, leading us to live a fulfilling and righteous life.



This article is informed by the King James Version of the Holy Bible, the authors' personal knowledge, considerations and experience, and additional materials and resources available in internet.

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