Proverbs 16: Pride Goes Before A Fall

I. Introduction: Proverbs 16 is a chapter that focuses on the themes of guidance, wisdom, and the sovereignty of God. The chapter presents a series of wise sayings that offer practical advice for living a life that is pleasing to God. The central message of Proverbs 16 is that God is the ultimate source of guidance and that human wisdom is limited. The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s wisdom and seeking His guidance in all aspects of life.

II. The Sovereignty of God (Proverbs 16:1-9)

The first nine verses of Proverbs 16 highlight the sovereignty of God and the limitations of human understanding. Verse 1 states, “The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord” (Proverbs 16:1). This verse shows that while humans may make plans, it is ultimately God who determines the outcome. The theme of God’s sovereignty is further emphasized in verse 9, which says, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps” (Proverbs 16:9).

Cross-references:

• Proverbs 19:21: “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.”
• Isaiah 46:10: “Declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.”
• James 4:13-15: “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit’—yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring…Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.’”

III. The Value of Wisdom (Proverbs 16:10-24)

In these verses, the value of wisdom is emphasized. Verse 16 states, “How much better to get wisdom than gold! To get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver” (Proverbs 16:16). Wisdom is presented as more valuable than material wealth because it leads to a life that is pleasing to God and beneficial to others.

Cross-references:

• Proverbs 8:10-11: “Take my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare with her.”
• Job 28:15-16: “It cannot be bought with the finest gold, nor can its price be weighed out in silver.”
• James 3:17: “But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.”

IV. The Fear of the Lord (Proverbs 16:25-33)

The final section of Proverbs 16 focuses on the fear of the Lord as the foundation of true wisdom. Verse 25 warns, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death” (Proverbs 16:25). This verse highlights the dangers of relying on human wisdom alone. In contrast, verse 33 states, “The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord” (Proverbs 16:33), emphasizing that God is in control of all outcomes.

Cross-references:

• Psalm 111:10: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!”
• Proverbs 14:12: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.”
• Romans 8:28: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

V. Conclusion: Proverbs 16 provides valuable insights into the themes of guidance, wisdom, and the sovereignty of God. The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking God’s guidance and trusting in His wisdom rather than relying on human understanding. The fear of the Lord is presented as the foundation of true wisdom, and the value of wisdom is shown to be greater than material wealth. The chapter serves as a guiding light for those seeking to live a life that is pleasing to God and beneficial to others.