Proverbs 16 — Tyndale Study Notes
Pr.16.1
Our own plans will come to fruition only if God allows (see also 16:9, 33; Jas 4:13-16).
Pr.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.
Pr.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).
Pr.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).
Pr.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).
Pr.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).
Pr.16.8
Better to have little: See also 15:16.
Pr.16.10-15
This series of sayings reflects on the king, who represents God’s power on earth.
Pr.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).
Pr.16.11
The message of this proverb is stated four times in the collection (cp. 11:1; 20:10, 23).
Pr.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).
Pr.16.14-15
The king is powerful, so people are wise to avoid his anger and gain his favor.
Pr.16.16
Wisdom and good judgment may lead to wealth, but wealth cannot buy wisdom.
Pr.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.
Pr.16.25
This proverb repeats 14:12.
Pr.16.27-29
Scoundrels, a troublemaker, and violent people all disrupt relationships, creating trouble with their harmful actions.
Pr.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).
Pr.16.32
Patience and self-control are far more valuable than brute force.
Pr.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).