Proverbs 16:10-20
Q.1. What standard of rule is appropriate for a king? How do the wise respond to leaders? – verses 10-15
We must submit to those in authority over us (c.f. Rom.13:1-5). However, those in authority will one day be judged more harshly by God. From everyone who has been given much, much will be required (Lk.12:48). Since a king or leader has far reaching powers – his mouth should not err in judgment … and – his throne is (should be) established on righteousness (Prov.16:10 & 12). The wise will recognize that – a divine decision is in the lips of the king … that – Righteous lips are the delight of kings, and he who speaks right is loved … In the light of a king’s face is life, and his favour is like a cloud with the spring rain (Prov.16:10, 13, 15).
Q.2. How can a person experience God’s blessing? What attitude must we avoid? –(Prov.16:16-20)
To experience God’s blessing, we need to value wisdom above all earthly wealth, for – How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen above silver (Prov.16:16). We should keep our distance from wicked people, and from all evil (Prov.16:17). Humility is another quality that assures that we enjoy life, because – 18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling 19 It is better to be humble in spirit with the lowly than to divide the spoil with the proud (Prov.16:18-19). However, God does not leave us drifting in a sea of subjectivism – He gives us objective truth and principles – He who gives attention to the word will find good and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord (Prov.16:20).