Proverbs 16:21-33
Q.1. What observations did the writer make about the heart of man? – (Prov.16:21-24)
Everything about a man comes forth from his heart. His heart provides understanding and gives rise to persuasive speech (Prov.16:21 & 23). This understanding in turn is a fountain of life (Prov.16:22 c.f. Jn.10:10). A wise heart influences our speech well – Pleasant words are as honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and healing to the bones (Prov.16:24).
Q.2. What is the outcome of ignoring the principles of God? – (Prov.16:25-30)
Ignoring wisdom and disregarding God’s principles can spread strife and may lead to death. In fact – There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death (Prov.16:25). God commands us to work. He has built hunger into our bodies, in order to urge us to work (Prov.16:26). Solomon understood the destructiveness of the tongue – 27 A worthless man digs up evil, while his words are like scorching fire. 28 A perverse man spreads strife, and a slanderer separates intimate friends (Prov.16:27-28 c.f. Jms.3:5-6). He warned about the damage done by violence and wicked schemes (Prov.16:29-30). The godless reap chaos in this life, plus God’s judgment in the life to come.
Q.3. What makes self-control superior to resorting to force? – (Prov.16:31-33)
Experience teaches us to restrain our responses. Most people do mellow with age. There is an up-side to growing old, since – A grey head is a crown of glory; It is found in the way of righteousness (Prov.16:31). Solomon recognized the damage done by a lack of self-control. He had learned that more could be achieved by diplomacy. He observed that – He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit, than he who captures a city (Prov.16:32). Mostly, we must learn that everything rises and falls on the decisions and plans of the Lord, for – the lot is cast into the lap,
but its every decision is from the Lord (Prov.16:33). Such knowledge can help us to trust God, instead of our resources or circumstances.