Tag: Advice

The King’s Countenance

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Proverbs 16:12-15 It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness. Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaks right. The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it. In the light of the king’s countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain. 

‘To kings’ – Throughout the book of Proverbs, the ideal form of monarchy is assumed, one that is governed justly and righteously. The proverbs on leadership are clear and direct, including those found in Proverbs 16:12-15.

Fifteen Biblical principles about Kings (or Leaders): Leaders must rule with justice, making decisions grounded in fairness and integrity (16:10). Righteousness is the foundation of true leadership; leaders must not compromise with evil (16:12). Leaders must be unwavering in their commitment to righteousness. A passion for truth should define every leader (16:13). True leaders honour and uplift those who live righteously (16:13; 20:26). Leaders possess the power to influence lives, for good or for harm (16:14). Even powerful rulers can be influenced by humility and wisdom. A leader’s favour brings life and blessing to those under their rule (16:15). Self-control is essential; leaders must not be easily provoked to anger (20:2). Wicked individuals fear and respect righteous leaders (20:8). A leader’s strength is found in mercy and truth, not force alone (20:28). Respect for leaders is an extension of respect for God’s established order in society (24:21). A righteous king brings peace and stability to a nation (29:4). Leaders must be sober-minded and self-disciplined, avoiding indulgence and excess (31:4). A leader’s duty is to uphold the law and ensure justice for all (31:5).

These principles offer a timeless standard for leadership rooted in God’s wisdom, calling all in authority to govern with integrity, humility, and righteousness.

A Just Weight

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Proverbs 16:11 A just weight and balance are the LORD’S: all the weights of the bag are his work. 

‘A just weight and balance are the LORD’s.’ Just weights and honest scales are ordained by God (11:1; Lev. 19:36).

‘All the weights of the bag’ refers to the standard weights kept in the sanctuary, used as the national benchmark to ensure fairness in commerce. It may also refer to the weights merchants carried in their pouches or belts, used to weigh money in trade. These tools were to reflect integrity and truth in every transaction.

Deceit is fundamentally falsehood (Ps. 119:118). Scripture teaches that deceit originates in the human heart (Jer. 17:9; Mark 7:22; Rom. 3:13). God utterly abhors it (Ps. 5:6) and commands His people to avoid it entirely (Job 27:4; 31:5; Pro. 24:28; 1Pet. 3:10). God’s faithful people are to be free from deceit (Ps. 24:4; Isa. 53:9; Zeph. 3:13; 1Pet. 2:22; Rev. 14:5). We are called to reject deceit (Ps. 43:1; 72:14; 101:7; 120:2; Eph. 5:6; Col. 2:8) and put it away completely (2Cor. 4:2; 1Thess. 2:3; 1Pet. 2:1). Scripture consistently links deceit with the wicked (Ps. 10:7; 35:20; 36:3; 38:12; Pro. 11:18; 12:5; 20:17; Jer. 9:5; 37:9; 2Tim. 3:13), with false teachers (Job 15:35; Pro. 12:17; Jer. 14:14; 23:26; Rom. 16:18; 2Cor. 11:13; Eph. 4:14; 2Thess. 2:1-17; 2Pet. 2:13; 2 John 1:7), and warns of its destructive consequences (Ps. 10:7; 24:4-5; 32:2; 55:23; Pro. 14:8, 25; 26:24; 27:6; Jer. 8:5; 9:6). God requires truth in the inward parts, not just outward behaviour, but inward integrity (Ps. 51:6). His desire is to renew and perfect our inner being daily through the gospel (2Cor. 4:16). This is the true test of character (Ps. 15:1-5): living with honesty, justice, and sincerity in all dealings.

His Mouth Transgresses Not

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Proverbs 16:10 A divine sentence is in the lips of the king: his mouth transgresses not in judgment. 

‘A divine sentence is in the lips of the king: his mouth transgresses not in judgment.’ The law of God, His divine oracle, is entrusted to the king to guide him in making just judgments. He must not act unfaithfully or neglect his duty to uphold it with integrity.

Romans 13:3 teaches that civil rulers are not meant to instil fear in those who do good, but in those who do evil. Their God-given role is not to intimidate law-abiding citizens but to restrain and punish wrongdoers who harm society. If you live under the law, there is no reason to be afraid, assuming authorities are enforcing justice as they should.

A Sevenfold message regarding civil authority: Submit to governing authorities – Show respect and willingly subject yourself to rulers and officials (Tit. 3:1; Rom. 13:1-8; 1Pet. 2:13-18). Obey local officials – Follow the leadership of civil magistrates and community leaders (Tit. 3:1; Rom. 13:1-8). Be ready for every good work – Always be prepared to engage in the right actions that benefit others (Tit. 3:1). Speak no evil of anyone – Guard your speech and refrain from slander or criticism (Tit. 3:2; Jas. 3:1-18). Avoid quarrels – Do not be argumentative or contentious (Tit. 3:2; 1Tim. 3:3). Be gentle – Treat others with kindness, patience, and grace (Tit. 3:2; Php. 4:5). Show meekness to all – Live with humility, reflecting the fruit of the Spirit through self-control and compassion (Gal. 5:22-23).

This teaching emphasizes that Christians should be exemplary citizens, marked by obedience, humility, and a commitment to good works while trusting that God ultimately holds all authority.

Devises His Ways

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Proverbs 16:9 – A man’s heart devises his way: but the LORD directs his steps. 

‘A man’s heart devises his way: but the LORD directs his steps.’ A righteous person may have many plans in their heart, but it is the Lord who ultimately directs their steps. We align ourselves with His direction by seeking His wisdom and guidance in all areas of life (3:5-6). It’s essential to recognise that God’s guidance doesn’t override our free will; He doesn’t force our choices. Instead, He reveals the likely outcomes of our decisions, helping us understand the path we’re choosing. When things go wrong, blaming God is often just a way of avoiding personal responsibility.

“Directs his steps” – Eight examples of God guiding people: Joseph’s brothers – Their harmful intent was used by God to fulfil a greater purpose (Gen. 37:18-28; 45:5). Pharaoh’s daughter – Found and raised Moses, playing a key role in God’s plan (Exo. 2:5). Saul – Directed to Samuel while searching for lost donkeys (1Sam. 9:3-16; 23:26-28). Jesse – Unknowingly sent David, God’s chosen king, to the battlefield (1Sam. 16:8-11; 17:23, 53). The Syrians – Captured a young girl who would lead Naaman to healing (2Kin. 5:2). Zacchaeus was positioned in the right place to encounter Jesus (Luke 19:1-10). The Samaritan woman – Met Jesus at the well, leading to the salvation of many (John 4:7). Saul (Paul) – On his way to persecute Christians, he encountered Christ and was transformed (Acts 9:1-18).

Better is…

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Proverbs 16:8 Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right. 

‘Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right.’ It is better to be poor and righteous than to be rich and wicked.

Seventeen “Better” sayings in Proverbs: Wisdom is better than gold and silver (3:14; 8:19). Wisdom is better than rubies (3:15; 8:11). A person who is despised but lives humbly is better than one who honours himself falsely (12:9). A little with the fear of the Lord is better than great treasure with trouble (15:16). A simple meal with love is better than a rich feast filled with hatred (15:17). A patient person is better than a hot-tempered warrior (16:32). One who controls his spirit is better than one who conquers a city (16:32). A dry morsel with peace is better than a house full of feasting with strife (17:1). A poor person who lives honestly is better than a fool who speaks perversely (19:1). A poor man is better than a liar (19:22). It is better to live alone in a corner of the roof than with a quarrelsome wife in a spacious house (21:9; 25:24). It is better to dwell in the wilderness than with a contentious and angry woman (21:19). It is better to be honoured later than to exalt oneself and be humiliated (25:7). Open rebuke is better than hidden love (27:5). A nearby neighbour is better than a distant relative in times of need (27:10). A righteous poor man is better than a wicked rich man (28:6). It is better to live rightly in humility than to enjoy wealth gained through sin.

These comparisons highlight the enduring value of character, wisdom, peace, and godliness over wealth, pride, or outward success.

Be At Peace

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Proverbs 16:7  When a man’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. 

‘When a man’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.’ God raises up peace for those who serve Him and do His will. Romans 12:18 encourages us to live at peace with everyone, as much as it depends on us. However, this doesn’t mean we are called to be friends with everyone (1Jn. 2:15-17), nor does it mean we should tolerate sin in our lives or form compromising relationships (2Cor. 6:14-18).

In the spirit of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers, for the children of God are known by their love. Where there is strife, we bring gentleness; where there is hurt, we offer forgiveness. Just as Christ reconciled us to God, we too are to pursue reconciliation with one another. Let anger be slow to rise and mercy quick to flow, for peace is the fruit of a heart ruled by the Spirit. Seek not only to avoid conflict, but to be a bridge of grace, showing patience, humility, and kindness in all things.

For in peace, the presence of God dwells richly. And where peace reigns, love abides.

Depart from Evil

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Proverbs 16:6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil. 

‘By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.’ Through God’s mercy and truth, atonement is made for sin and iniquity is cleansed; and it is by reverent fear of the Lord that people turn away from evil (John 16:6; Tit. 3:5).

Fourteen blessings that come from fearing the Lord: It is the beginning and foundation of true wisdom (1:7; 9:10). It influences and ultimately determines one’s eternal destiny (1:29). It leads a person to turn away from evil (3:7; 16:6). It produces a hatred for sin and wrongdoing (8:13). It adds both length and quality to life (10:27). It brings deep, unwavering confidence (14:26). It is a source of spiritual vitality and life (14:27). It brings peace, contentment, and satisfaction (15:16). It is essential for gaining wisdom and instruction (15:33). It leads to a life marked by stability and fulfilment (19:23). It results in true riches, honour, and long life (22:4). It frees the heart from envy and jealousy (23:17). It brings God’s blessing and prosperity (Eccl. 8:12; Isa. 33:6). It is closely tied to humility before God (Isa. 2:10-21).

The fear of the Lord is not terror, but a reverent awe that transforms how we live, leading to both spiritual and practical blessings.

Proud in Heart

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Proverbs 16:5 Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished. 

Proverbs 16:5-7 contains the eleventh prophecy in the book and is continually fulfilled both on earth and in hell. Scripture outlines twenty things that are an abomination to God: The perverse person (Hebrew: luwz) – one who turns aside from righteousness (3:32; 11:20). A proud look (6:16-17) and a lying tongue (6:17; 12:22). Hands that shed innocent blood (6:17). A heart that devises wicked plans (6:18). Feet that are quick to run toward evil. A false witness who tells lies (6:19). One who spreads strife among others.Wickedness in general (8:7). Dishonest scales or measurements (11:1). The sacrifices of the wicked (15:8; 21:27). The path or lifestyle of the wicked (15:9). The thoughts and intentions of the wicked (15:26). Those who are proud in heart (16:5). Those who justify the wicked and condemn the righteous (17:15). Use of unequal weights and measures (20:10, 23). Refusing to listen to God’s law [His Word] (28:9). The prayers of those in rebellion.

These actions and attitudes are abominable in God’s sight and reflect hearts that are far from His truth.

All Things

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Proverbs 16:4 The LORD had made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil. 

‘The LORD had made all things for himself.’ Jesus Christ – the one we now know as the only begotten Son of God – has eternally existed as a co-equal member of the Godhead (Isa. 7:14; 9:6-7; Mic. 5:2; John 1:1-2; Heb. 1:8; Rev. 1:8-11). Before taking on the role of the Son, which relates to His humanity rather than His deity, He existed as a spirit being and was actively involved in the divine work of creation. As the agent of God the Father, He brought all things into existence (Isa. 9:6; John 1:3; Eph. 3:9; Heb. 1:3; Rev. 4:11). Not only did He create everything, but He also sustains and upholds all things by His power (Heb. 1:3).

‘Even the wicked for the day of evil.’ Even the wicked are preserved for the day of judgment, when they will receive just punishment for their deeds (Rom. 1:18; 2:5; 2Pet. 1:9). God did not create people to be evil; wickedness arises from each individual’s choices between good and evil.

Shall Be Established

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Proverbs 16:3 Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. 

‘Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.’ Take God into partnership, and your plans will succeed.

All holy brethren [true representatives of Christ on earth] are united as partakers, partners, and fellow heirs in a heavenly calling (Heb. 3:1). While Israel was given an earthly calling, and those living at the Messiah’s return will enter into God’s earthly plan to replenish the earth forever, both saved Jews and Gentiles who share in the resurrection will become kings and priests, reigning over the earth and all creation for eternity (Rev. 1:5–6; 5:10; 22:4–5). Their calling is heavenly because they will not be confined to an earthly program, as humanity would have been had sin never entered the world (Gen. 1:27-31; cp Matt. 22:30; Luke 20:34-35; Heb. 11:10-16; 12:22-23).

‘Established’ – Five Biblical examples of God-established plans: Jacob – In a moment of deep crisis, Jacob wrestled with God and received both a blessing and direction for his future (Gen. 32:24-30; 46:1-6). His plans were aligned through divine encounter and assurance. David – As he faced Goliath and later pursued the Amalekites, David sought God’s guidance and acted in faith, leading to victory and restoration (1Sam. 17:45; 30:8-19). Ezra – Before leading the exiles back to Jerusalem, Ezra fasted and prayed, committing his journey to the Lord. God established his plans and protected their path (Ezra 8:21-32). Esther – Esther risked her life for her people, seeking God through fasting. Her obedience led to a divine reversal and the preservation of Israel (Est. 4:14-17; 8:15-17). Daniel – Daniel’s steadfast devotion to prayer and God’s law, even in the face of death, resulted in divine favour and the establishment of God’s plan in a foreign kingdom (Dan. 6:10).

These examples remind us that when our plans are committed to the Lord, He establishes them (16:3).