Forest Hill Presbyterian Church

www.foresthillpca.org

Proverbs 16 focuses on the sovereignty of God, emphasizing that both the planned and the seemingly random are under the Lord's control. While people make plans, it is the Lord who establishes their steps and determines their success. Therefore, the wise commit their work to the Lord, trusting that He has a purpose even in times of trouble. Arrogance is an abomination to the Lord, while steadfast love, faithfulness, and the fear of the Lord atone for iniquity and turn one away from evil.The chapter also contrasts worldly values with Godly wisdom. It is better to have a little with righteousness than great revenues with injustice, and better to have a lowly spirit with the poor than to divide the spoil with the proud. True wisdom involves giving thought to the word of God and trusting in Him. Additionally, wise speech is gracious and persuasive. The chapter also warns against doing what seems right in one's own eyes, as that path leads to death. Finally, living a righteous life, being slow to anger, and ruling one's spirit are hallmarks of wisdom and can lead to a long life.