Don’t Forget God

Proverbs 16:1-15

“The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD.” (Proverbs 16:1)

The intellectual capacity of a person comes from God, as does the ability to speak intelligibly.  It is foolish to think we can make decisions or take actions without his power when we are dependent on him for the ability to think logically.   

“All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.  Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.” (Proverbs 16:2-3)

It is natural for people to assume whatever they do is right, but God is more concerned whit the reasons or attitudes with which things are done.  By making sure what we do is in line what he wants, we can be sure he will bless our efforts.

“The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.” (Proverbs 16:4)

Colossians 1:16-17 says very much the same thing.  “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.”   Not only did he create them, but they exist right now because of him.  They were made for, for his pleasure, according to Revelation 4:8.  Even those who are evil serve a purpose in his plans.

“Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished.” (Proverbs 16:5)

Everyone who has a proud attitude is disgusting to God.  He knows what they are really like, and they will not be able to escape his judgment, regardless how hard large a conspiracy there is to keep God from punishing them.  Revelation 19-20 describe the defeat of one such conspiracy.

“By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.” (Proverbs 16:6)

Many believe crime can be reduced by stiffer mandatory penalties.  Unfortunately such an approach often ignores mitigating circumstances, resulting in injustice and rebellion.  Careful review of the facts and matching the punishment to fit the crime is far more effective.   Teaching people to have a profound respect for God is an effective deterrent.

 

“When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.” (Proverbs 16:7)

When we are living in a fashion that is pleasing to God, even our enemies have no reason to attack us.   We aren’t doing anything to upset them, and God will keep them from attacking.

“Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right.” (Proverbs 16:8)

It is better to have a little and know you have earned it and have a right to it than to have a huge income and know you got it dishonestly and don’t deserve it.

“A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)

A person can make all their plans and do what they think they should, but God determines the outcome.  Many of the motivational speakers ignore God’s role, telling people they can make it happen anyway if they just think the right way. 

“A divine sentence is in the lips of the king: his mouth transgresseth not in judgment.” (Proverbs 16:10)

When the King allows God to direct his mouth he will not make inequitable and senseless judgments.  When he depends on his own intelligence he makes stupid decisions.  Just being in power does not make him right.

“A just weight and balance are the Lord's: all the weights of the bag are his work.” (Proverbs 16:11)

God made it possible for man to accurately measure and weigh things.   A fair and honest way of doing business are his intention. 

“It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.  Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.  The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.  In the light of the king's countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain.“ (Proverbs 16:12-15)

A government depends on the trust of its citizens to stay in power.   Destroying that trust by wrong doing is a hateful thing to any wise leader.    As a result they value those who can be trusted to tell the truth, even when it is not pleasant.  Because of its power, wise people do not defy the government but try to negotiate with it.  Having governmental approval can be a great blessing and their opposition can be fatal.