Proverbs 16

16:1 Our own plans will come to fruition only if God allows (see also 16:9, 33; Jas 4:13-16).

16:2 God’s moral evaluation is what counts (see Gen 8:21; 1 Sam 13:14; 16:6-7; Luke 16:15). This proverb is repeated almost verbatim in Prov 21:2.

16:3 God must affirm our plans (16:1), so it makes sense to ask his help in accomplishing our goals (see Jas 4:13-16).

16:4 The wicked will have trouble in this life and in death. Nothing is outside of God’s control (see also Rom 9:10-24; 2 Pet 2:9).

16:5 God detests the proud, who refuse to commit their ways to the Lord (16:3) and mistakenly believe that they can accomplish their plans on their own (16:1).

16:6 God’s unfailing love and faithfulness are foundational in his covenant relationship with Israel (see Exod 15:13; 34:6-7; Num 14:18-19; Deut 7:9-11).

16:8 Better to have little: See also 15:16.

16:10-15 This series of sayings reflects on the king, who represents God’s power on earth.16:10 Divine wisdom refers to divinely inspired guidance that helps the king make judgments (e.g., 1 Kgs 3:28; see also Ps 72:2).

16:11 The message of this proverb is stated four times in the collection (cp. 11:1; 20:10, 23).

16:12-13 These proverbs presuppose a wise, godly king (see Isa 9:6-7). Many of Israel’s kings loved wrongdoing and hated truth (e.g., Ahab in 1 Kgs 21).

16:14-15 The king is powerful, so people are wise to avoid his anger and gain his favor.

16:16 Wisdom and good judgment may lead to wealth, but wealth cannot buy wisdom.

16:18 The pride of those who resist God and stubbornly rely on their own strength (16:5) is self-destructive and foolish because, apart from God’s help, no one has the resources required for life.

16:25 This proverb repeats 14:12.

16:27-29 Scoundrels, a troublemaker, and violent people all disrupt relationships, creating trouble with their harmful actions.

16:31 Godly people grow in wisdom as they grow older, so their gray hair is a crown (cp. 4:9; 12:4; 17:6).

16:32 Patience and self-control are far more valuable than brute force.

16:33 We may throw the dice: These dice were not for gambling but were a means commissioned by God to determine his will (Exod 28:30; see also Josh 14:2; 1 Sam 10:17-27; 14:40-43).