Tag: Proverbs

Sweet to the Soul

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Proverbs 16:24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones. 

‘Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.’ Just as honey is rich, sweet, and full of natural nourishment, so also are kind and gracious words. Honey not only delights the taste but also strengthens and revitalises the body. In the same way, words spoken with warmth, encouragement, and sincerity can refresh a weary soul and bring strength to a discouraged heart.

Pleasant words are more than just polite expressions – they carry power. They lift the spirit, ease emotional burdens, and often provide healing in places unseen. Whether it’s a word of comfort or a gentle correction delivered with love, such speech can bring inner restoration and peace.

When spoken with wisdom, love, and compassion, our words can become a source of life, much like how honey provides energy and health to the body. They foster hope, mend relationships, and promote well-being both spiritually and emotionally.

In a world often filled with harsh criticism, sarcasm, and negativity, pleasant words stand out as a rare and healing balm. Let us choose our words carefully, knowing that what we say can either wound or heal, discourage or uplift. Like honey to the tongue, may our speech bring sweetness and strength to those who hear us.

The Wise

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Proverbs 16:20-23 He that handles a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusts in the LORD, happy is he. The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increases learning. Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that has it: but the instruction of fools is folly. The heart of the wise teaches his mouth, and adds learning to his lips. 

‘He that handles a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusts in the LORD, happy is he.’ Eight fundamental principles of life: Eight fundamental principles of life: Approach every situation with wisdom and discernment (16:20). Place your trust fully in the Lord. Cultivate wisdom and prudence in your decisions (16:21). Continually pursue knowledge and understanding. Show compassion and insight in dealing with others (16:22). Reject foolishness and remain teachable and open to learning. Let your words always reflect wisdom and thoughtfulness (16:23). Speak with kindness and grace, bringing encouragement to others (16:24).

‘Heart of the wise’ Five examples of wise hearts: [1] Eleazar, as Abraham’s servant, showed faithfulness, prayerfulness, and discernment in selecting a wife for Isaac. His words and actions reflected a heart guided by God and committed to fulfilling his master’s will (Gen. 24:34-49). [2] Jacob spoke with a deep perspective on the hardships of life, recognising both struggle and divine providence. His journey illustrates how wisdom can be shaped through time, trials, and the hand of God (Gen. 47:9). [3] Jesus Christ silenced critics with truth and amazed teachers with understanding. His life reveals perfect insight, discernment, and compassion (Matt. 22:46; Luke 2:40-52). [4] Peter, once impulsive, grew into a bold yet humble leader. In Acts 3, he wisely deflected glory from himself and pointed people to Christ. His life shows how the Spirit of God transforms and matures the heart (Acts 3:12). [5] Paul spoke with clarity, depth, and conviction. Whether before Jews or Gentiles, kings or commoners, he presented the truth with boldness and love. His wise heart was marked by deep knowledge of Scripture and personal testimony of grace (Acts 13:16-21; 14:17; 17:28; 24:25; 26:2-27; 1Tim. 1:12-16).

The wise heart seeks not merely knowledge but alignment with God’s will. Let us cultivate wisdom, speak with grace, and walk in humble reliance on the Lord, knowing that wisdom is more precious than gold and leads to life (3:13-18).

Pride vs A Humble Spirit

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Proverbs 16:18-19 Pride goes before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud. 

‘Pride goes before destruction.’ Scripture provides clear examples of individuals and nations who fell because of pride: Asahel – His overconfidence in pursuit led to his death (2Sam. 2:18-23). Benhadad – His arrogant demands and refusal to heed the warning brought about defeat (1Kin. 20:3, 11, 32). Babylon – Boasted in self-security and wisdom, yet destruction came swiftly (Isa. 47:10-11). Azariah – Rejected God’s word and faced judgment (Jer. 43:2-11). Nebuchadnezzar – Exalted himself over Babylon, and God humbled him (Dan. 4:30-31). Edom – Trusted in their high position and strength, but were brought low (Obad. 1:3-4). Herod Agrippa – Accepted glory as a god and was struck down by God (Acts 12:21-23).

One of the core temptations of humanity is the pride of life (Gen. 3:6; 1Jn. 2:15-17). This form of pride often manifests through: Self-righteous boasting (Job 32:1). Seeking position and exaltation (Gen. 3:5; Ezek. 28:11-17; 1Tim. 3:6; 3Jn. 1:9). Craving power and control (Lev. 26:19). Trusting in wealth (Ps. 39:6; Ezek. 28:5). Boasting in beauty (Ezek. 28:11, 17). Pride in military strength (2Chr. 26:16). Glorying in sexual exploits, pleasures, and vanity (1Jn. 2:15; Ps. 24:4; 36:2; Isa. 3:16). These attitudes distance us from God and place confidence in self rather than in the Lord.

As Proverbs 16:19 reminds us: “Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.” In other words, it is far better to walk in humility among the humble than to align ourselves with the arrogant and their temporary gains.

Preserves His Soul

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Proverbs 16:17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keeps his way preserves his soul. 

‘The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keeps his way preserves his soul.’ The life path of the righteous is marked by a continual turning away from evil. It is not just a one-time decision but a daily, conscious commitment to reject sin and pursue holiness. For the upright, this moral highway is not only a direction, it is a way of life shaped by discernment, integrity, and obedience to God.

To depart from evil means to actively resist temptation, avoid corrupt influences, and separate oneself from anything that compromises godly character. It reflects a heart that loves righteousness and hates sin, valuing the condition of the soul over temporary gain or pleasure.

“He that keeps his way” refers to the one who carefully watches over his conduct, staying alert and intentional in how he lives. This watchfulness is not rooted in fear but in reverence for God and a desire to remain aligned with His will.

In doing so, he “preserves his soul”- guarding it from spiritual destruction, moral compromise, and eternal loss. This verse reminds us that righteousness is protective; it shields the soul from harm and leads to lasting peace and security.

Get Wisdom

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Proverbs 16:16 How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver! 

‘How much better is it to get wisdom than gold.’ Few truly believe this, as shown by how much more people seek wealth than wisdom.

Humanity often fails to recognize the true worth of wisdom and understanding. These treasures cannot be found in the depths of the earth or the sea. They cannot be purchased with gold, silver, or any precious stones. Their value far surpasses that of jewels, fine gold, coral, or pearls – wisdom is more precious than rubies or anything material we may desire (Job 28:14-19).

Wisdom is hidden from all living creatures and cannot be discovered by human effort alone. It comes from one source only – God Himself (Job 28:20-23).

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.