Proverbs 16 in the NIV (New International Version) says:
1 Come now, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming upon you.
2 Your wealth has rotted away, and moths have eaten your clothes.
3 Your gold and silver are corroded. The very foundations of your lives are decaying. You went through a sea of troubles, and now you're more than happy to gather more treasure. And what do you get from it? A bigger heap of rubble.
4 How I wish the godless would perish quickly, so that I could be rid of my worries!
5 The wicked become clever, but they will soon be put down.
6 When a righteous person turns away from their righteousness and does evil, the Lord is angry at them. He will strike them with his own hand and take away their life.
7 But when you ask, you do not receive, because you ask for the wrong reasons. Your hearts are wicked and your prayers are sinful.
8 The Lord detests those who harm innocent people and says, "Will you not take that to heart? You are corrupt, and your power is nothing but a mustache!"
9 How long will you harbor ignorance in your minds and ignore justice?
10 The one who loves wisdom brings joy to those who love her. But at the end of life there is nothing as good as the fruit that comes from following God.
11 What the wicked do is detestable, but when the righteous get what they deserve, it makes sense.
This chapter seems to be warning against the dangers of wealth and materialism, and urging people to seek wisdom and justice instead. It also speaks about the importance of living righteously and the consequences of turning away from God's ways.
Proverbs 16 is a fascinating chapter in the book of Proverbs, which is a collection of wisdom sayings attributed to King Solomon. Here's a brief commentary on Proverbs 16:
**Theme:** The theme of Proverbs 16 is the sovereignty and goodness of God, as well as the importance of trust and obedience to Him.
**Chapters 16:1-9:** These verses emphasize God's sovereign control over human affairs. Verses 1-3 state that "the Lord works out his plan" (v. 4) and that "all the ways of a man are the Lord’s" (v. 9). This section encourages trust in God's wisdom and goodness, even when we don't understand His plans.
**Chapters 16:10-15:** These verses focus on the importance of wisdom, specifically in the context of decision-making. Verse 16:12 says, "It is a mistake to say 'It's all up to me' or 'I can do it myself.' No one can find their own way." This section encourages us to seek God's guidance and wisdom in making decisions.
**Chapters 16:16-20:** These verses describe the consequences of sin and disobedience. Verse 16:18 says, "Prudence is a gift from the Lord; only fools despise it." This section reminds us that our choices have consequences, both positive and negative, and that seeking wisdom and guidance from God can help us make better decisions.
**Chapters 16:21-33:** These verses emphasize the importance of humility and a willingness to listen to others. Verse 16:24 says, "A wise man's eyes are in his head; he may know how to face trouble." This section encourages us to be teachable, humble, and willing to learn from others.
**Key Verses:**
* "The Lord works out his plan" (v. 4)
* "All the ways of a man are the Lord’s" (v. 9)
* "It is a mistake to say 'It's all up to me' or 'I can do it myself.' No one can find their own way" (v. 12)
* "Prudence is a gift from the Lord; only fools despise it" (v. 18)
**Applications:**
1. Trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when we don't understand His plans.
2. Seek wisdom and guidance from God in making decisions.
3. Recognize that our choices have consequences, both positive and negative.
4. Cultivate humility and a willingness to listen to others.
Overall, Proverbs 16 emphasizes the importance of trust, wisdom, and obedience to God's sovereignty in our lives.
Proverbs 17 in the ESV (English Standard Version) is a wonderful chapter!
Here are some notable verses:
1. "A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." (Prov 17:1)
This verse emphasizes the importance of gentle speech in resolving conflicts and avoiding further anger.
2. "It is better to have a little that frightens you than a great plunder that fills your stomach." (Prov 17:16)
This proverb cautions against seeking wealth at any cost, highlighting the value of moderation and the potential consequences of excessive greed.
3. "The one who loves punishment gets no love." (Prov 17:20)
This verse suggests that those who consistently seek out discipline or punishment may not receive the affection and care they desire from others.
4. "A friend is always ready to lend a helping hand." (Prov 17:17, paraphrased)
This proverb celebrates the value of true friendship, highlighting the willingness of good friends to offer support and assistance in times of need.
5. "The one who loves wisdom gets knowledge, but the one who hates her gets folly." (Prov 17:16-17)
These verses emphasize the importance of seeking wisdom and knowledge, while also cautioning against rejecting wisdom and embracing foolishness instead.
6. "Friendship is a shield to your inner self." (Prov 17:17, paraphrased)
This proverb suggests that having close friends can be a protective barrier against the challenges and difficulties of life, providing emotional support and stability.
7. "The one who is wise will take wisdom's advice; the foolish won't listen." (Prov 17:24-25)
These verses highlight the importance of being open to wisdom and good counsel, while also warning against ignoring or rejecting wise guidance.
Proverbs 17 offers many valuable insights on topics like friendship, wisdom, conflict resolution, and the consequences of our choices. What specific aspect of this chapter would you like to explore further?
Proverbs 16 in the New King James Version (NKJV) says:
1 The preparations of the heart belong to man,
But how great the effect of His answer!
2 All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes,
But the Lord looks at the heart.
3 Commit your works to the Lord,
And your thoughts will be established.
4 The Lord has made everything for His purpose;
Even the wicked for the day of evil.
5 Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord;
The loving and trusting are His delight.
6 Guiltily will he give up the soul:
The righteous shall be bold as a lion.
7 The arrogant will not dwell in any land,
For the Lord is a jealous God.
8 A king who sits on the throne of judgment
Wisely discerns all prisoners' cases.
9 He sets them free from the sentence;
Even for the just man, You will show Yourself to be wise.
10 Again, I say, "It profits a man nothing that he gains the whole world,
And loses his own soul."
11 An intelligent heart acquires wisdom,
But it is not good to boast about honor.
12 For as the rain comes down and the snow from heaven
And do not return there, but water the earth,
And make it bud and bring forth fruit—
That it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater—
13 And he who winnows the wheat will say to his brother,
"Heave it, for the thistle has no heads."
14 In that day you will keep your heart from deceit;
For then you will have your wisdom's beginning.
15 The wise are mightier than forces unsteady,
But don't trust in their strength alone.
16 When you hasten, don't delay;
Better a little which is good than all the plunder and loss.
This chapter of Proverbs highlights some important themes and principles:
* The importance of humility and recognizing that God's answer can have a great effect on our lives (verses 1-3)
* The idea that people tend to think their own ways are pure, but God looks at the heart and knows our true intentions (verse 2)
* The value of committing our works and thoughts to God, which will establish them (verse 3)
* The concept that even evil people were created by God for a purpose, including the day of evil (verse 4)
* The importance of being proud in one's heart is an abomination to God, but loving and trusting Him brings delight (verses 5-6)
* The idea that those who are arrogant will not be able to dwell in any land because God is jealous and will not tolerate pride (verse 7)
* The value of a king or judge being wise and discerning in their decisions (verses 8-9)
* The importance of seeking wisdom, but not boasting about it (verses 10-11)
* The idea that God's provision and care are like the rain and snow that bring forth fruit and nourishment (verse 12)
* The warning against trusting in one's own strength or power alone (verse 15)
* The encouragement to hasten, but not delay, and choose a little good over all the plunder and loss (verse 16)
Overall, Proverbs 16 emphasizes the importance of humility, recognizing God's sovereignty, and seeking wisdom.
Proverbs 16 in the New Living Translation (NLT) is a wonderful chapter that offers wise guidance on how to live a virtuous and fulfilling life. Here are some of the key verses:
Verse 1: "We can make our own plans, but the Lord establishes our steps."
This verse reminds us that while we may have good intentions and make plans for our lives, ultimately it is God who guides us and helps us achieve our goals.
Verse 3: "The Lord does not look at your money or your possessions when he considers your worth."
This verse emphasizes that true wealth is not measured by material possessions, but rather by the character and values we possess as individuals.
Verse 4: "All a person's ways seem right to them, but the Lord examines their heart."
This verse highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance in our decision-making process. It reminds us that while others may think we're making good choices, only God truly knows what's best for us.
Verse 5: "The Lord does not accept everyone who calls out to him."
This verse serves as a reminder that simply saying prayers or professing faith is not enough. We must also demonstrate a willingness to listen and obey God's guidance in our lives.
Verse 7: "When people do not talk about what they have done, it lasts only for a fleeting moment."
This verse emphasizes the importance of confessing and acknowledging our mistakes. It reminds us that trying to hide or cover up our wrongdoings will ultimately lead to more harm than good.
Verse 8-9: "The path of righteous people is like the shining sun, ever-sure. The way of wicked people is like darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble."
These verses highlight the contrast between living a virtuous life and one that is marked by sin and rebellion. They remind us that following God's guidance brings joy and peace, while ignoring His will leads to confusion and hardship.
Verse 18: "Pride goes before destruction, but humility comes before honor."
This verse serves as a reminder of the dangers of pride and the importance of humility. It reminds us that when we prioritize our own interests and desires above others', we set ourselves up for failure and heartache.
Overall, Proverbs 16 offers valuable wisdom on how to live a life that is pleasing to God. It emphasizes the importance of seeking His guidance, acknowledging our mistakes, and living with humility and integrity.
Proverbs 16:3 says, "Commit your work to the Lord, and then your plans will succeed." This verse is emphasizing the importance of seeking God's guidance and involvement in our daily lives. It's saying that when we commit our work or decisions to Him, He will be pleased to guide us and help us achieve success.
This verse can be applied to many areas of life, whether it's a specific task or project at work, a personal goal or aspiration, or even a big decision that needs to be made. The idea is that when we put our trust in God and ask Him to direct our path, He will help us make wise choices and achieve the desired outcome.
In this sense, Proverbs 16:3 can be seen as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's wisdom and guidance in all aspects of life. It's not saying that success is guaranteed, but rather that when we commit our work to Him, He will be pleased to guide us and help us achieve His best for us.
What are your thoughts on this verse? How have you applied it to your own life?
Proverbs 16 in the Amplified Bible (AMP)!
Here it is:
**Proverbs 16: AMP**
1. The purposes of a man's heart are like water springs; only what flows from the Lord can bring true satisfaction.
2. It is futile to rush into something, but every decision made in wisdom is a path that leads to joy.
3. Commit your work to the Lord [commit and trust yourself to Him], and then your plans will be established [when God considers things].
4. The Lord has devised plans for the calamity of all proud and haughty men.
5. Everyone honors the king by doing what is right, but a wicked man has shame none can count on.
6. A king's words are as commands, and a courtier's words carry weight, but foolish talk will be overthrown.
7. The result of righteousness is peace; the fruit of piety is joy.
8. The path of the virtuous is like light, shining more brightly until it reaches full day.
9. A fool sends word to all his friends, saying, "Look at me! Look at me!"
10. In the hearts of fools, there is no place for wisdom, but they can only cry out loudly.
11. Dishonest scales are detestable to the Lord, and false weights are not pleasing to Him.
12. It is a blessing when a king or ruler honors God; he will be filled with joy, especially from those around him.
13. A wise king gives careful thought to his people, but a foolish one is a disaster.
14. The human heart is more deceitful than all else; it is incurable.
15. What has been crushed cannot be gathered again; the tears of the wicked will not be wiped away.
What do you take away from this chapter?
Proverbs 16 in the King James Version (KJV) is a wonderful chapter that contains many wise sayings and teachings from God. Here are some notable verses:
1. "The preparations of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord." (Proverbs 16:1)
This verse reminds us that while we have control over our thoughts and intentions (the preparations of the heart), the outcome or response from others is ultimately up to God.
2. "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he that hearkens unto counsel is wise." (Proverbs 16:6)
This verse highlights the importance of seeking wisdom and guidance from others. We should be willing to listen to advice and consider different perspectives before making decisions.
3. "All the ways of the Lord are mercy and truth unto them that do know his covenant and testimony." (Proverbs 16:7)
This verse emphasizes God's character as a merciful and truthful God, who is faithful to those who know and trust in His promises.
4. "A just weight and balance are the Lord’s: all the ways of the mighty are right before him; and he regardeth." (Proverbs 16:11-12)
This verse reminds us that God is a God of justice and fairness, and He sees and judges our actions based on His standards.
5. "It is a perverted thing to show partiality unto the wicked, but judgment shall be at the great ones." (Proverbs 16:13)
This verse warns against showing favoritism or partiality towards those who are wicked or unjust. God is not pleased with such behavior and will judge it accordingly.
6. "The Lord doth works out everything to the end—yea, and the wicked He will puzzle his way no more." (Proverbs 16:4)
This verse reminds us that God is sovereign and in control of all things, even the actions of the wicked. His ultimate goal is to bring about justice and righteousness.
These are just a few of the many insightful verses found in Proverbs 16. The chapter offers valuable wisdom on topics such as God's sovereignty, the importance of seeking guidance, and the consequences of our choices.