Proverbs 16 highlights the sovereignty of God in human affairs, emphasizing the importance of righteousness, humility, and wisdom. The chapter explores themes of divine guidance, the contrast between pride and humility, and the consequences of our choices. Solomon teaches that success is ultimately in God’s hands, and living righteously leads to lasting fulfillment.

Proverbs 16:1-3 – Committing Plans to the Lord

“To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.”

  • NIV (New International Version): “To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.”
  • KJV (King James Version): “The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the Lord.”
  • ESV (English Standard Version): “The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord.”

Commentary: Human beings may devise plans, but God ultimately determines their outcome. This verse underscores the importance of seeking divine guidance rather than relying solely on human wisdom.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Plans” (מַחְשָׁבוֹת, machshavot) – Refers to thoughts, intentions, and strategies.
  • “Answer” (מַעֲנֶה, ma’aneh) – Denotes a response or verdict, indicating divine intervention.

Application: Trusting in God’s direction brings clarity and success. Rather than relying solely on personal ambition, we should align our plans with His will.

Proverbs 16:5 – The Danger of Pride

“The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.”

  • NIV: “The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.”
  • KJV: “Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished.”
  • ESV: “Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the Lord; be assured, he will not go unpunished.”

Commentary: Pride is condemned throughout Scripture, as it leads to self-reliance rather than dependence on God. The proud are assured of divine judgment.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Proud” (גָּבַהּ, gavah) – Signifies arrogance, haughtiness, and an inflated self-view.
  • “Abomination” (תוֹעֵבָה, to’evah) – A term for detestable practices that oppose God’s will.

Application: Humility attracts God’s favor, while pride leads to downfall. Recognizing our dependence on Him is crucial for spiritual growth.

Proverbs 16:9 – God’s Sovereignty Over Human Plans

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”

  • NIV: “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
  • KJV: “A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.”
  • ESV: “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”

Commentary: While people make their own decisions, ultimate control belongs to God. He guides and directs according to His divine purpose.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Establishes” (כוּן, kun) – Refers to setting firm, securing, or directing one’s path.
  • “Steps” (צַעַד, tsa’ad) – Represents individual choices or movements.

Application: Submitting to God’s guidance ensures that our efforts align with His greater plan. Faith in His direction leads to fulfillment and success.

Proverbs 16:18 – The Consequence of Pride

“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”

  • NIV: “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
  • KJV: “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.”
  • ESV: “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”

Commentary: This verse highlights the inevitable downfall that follows arrogance. Self-exaltation leads to humiliation, while humility leads to honor.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Pride” (גָּאוֹן, ga’on) – Denotes arrogance, self-importance, and an inflated ego.
  • “Fall” (כָּשַׁל, kashal) – Refers to stumbling or experiencing ruin due to arrogance.

Application: Practicing humility prevents personal and spiritual ruin. Those who exalt themselves above God and others will ultimately face consequences.

Proverbs 16:32 – The Value of Self-Control

“Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.”

  • NIV: “Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.”
  • KJV: “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.”
  • ESV: “Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.”

Commentary: True strength lies not in physical dominance but in self-mastery. Controlling one’s emotions and responses reflects greater power than external conquest.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Slow to anger” (אֶרֶךְ אַפַּיִם, erekh apayim) – Describes patience and long-suffering.
  • “Self-control” (רוּחַ, ruach) – Refers to mastery over one’s emotions and impulses.

Application: Cultivating patience and emotional discipline leads to wisdom and success. Mastering oneself is more valuable than external victories.

General Overview of Proverbs 16

Proverbs 16 presents a powerful message on God’s sovereignty, humility, and righteous living. The chapter encourages trust in divine guidance, warns against the dangers of pride, and highlights the importance of wisdom and self-control.

Key Takeaways:

  • Human plans are ultimately directed by God.
  • Pride leads to destruction, while humility leads to honor.
  • God watches over our actions and ensures justice.
  • Patience and self-control are greater strengths than physical power.

References

  • HENRY, Matthew. Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible: Complete and Unabridged. Hendrickson Publishers, 1991.
  • KIDNER, Derek. Proverbs: An Introduction and Commentary. Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries, 1981.
  • WIERSBE, Warren W. Be Skillful (Proverbs): God’s Guidebook to Wise Living. David C. Cook, 1995.