A Chapter A Day - Proverbs 16

This chapter is encapsulated by statements that demonstrate the control God has over all of our circumstances - verses 1 and 33. In between we are given advice for daily living. Let's just jump right in, as we're in the zone.

Proverbs 16

Observations and Highlights

God, the Lord is in control of more than we sometimes wish to give him credit for. He provides the right word at the right time (v1), He knows our hearts and our motives (v2); He knows the end of the wicked(v5); He can help us avoid evil(v6); He establishes our plans (v9); He makes our enemies to be at peace with us (v7); and He prospers and blesses us (v20). In our human efforts, we try to do many of these things, but it really is an effort, since we can't control all things like He does. He cares about every detail of our lives.

Verses 12-15 talks about our interactions with kings. Kings are the equivalent of anyone in authority - bosses, governors, presidents, other leaders, etc. Some of the hallmarks of a good leader are:  they detest wrongdoing, value honesty, and grant favor. The King is in a position to grant favor; by your character and interactions with the King you may be in a position to receive this favor. But favor is not a given; it is up to the King to determine who receives it. When the King is upset, a wise person knows how to appease the king's anger. A wise person will not act in a way to further irritate the king, again, because he recognizes the power of the position. There is an underlying assumption in these passages that the King is a good king; however all Kings are not good so this passage also provides guidance on dealing with those also.

Pride goeth before a fall(v18-19). How many times have we seen this in our own lives? We get a little cocky over some achievement, and all of a sudden we are Mrs. Know-It-All. Know-It-Alls are no fun to be around - why do they need anyone else? Without fail, in life, as soon as we become over-confident, some event happens that grounds us again. Don't let yourself get cocky; stay humble.

Gray hair is a crown of splendor (v31) especially if it is attained in the way of righteousness. Have you ever thought about your gray hair in this manner? We dye it or cover it so people won't call us old. Wear your gray hair proudly - it's a sign of wisdom and maturity.

The lot is cast into the lap, but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord (v33). God is in control

Read on.