Proverbs chapter 16

vs 12

It just is. I wonder What sort of effect this verse had during the period of monarchy in the european states. Kings are judges, remember, so their job really should be to detest injustice.

vs 13

Lots about kings today. I suppose honest people give honest advice, they tell the truth as witnesses, and they are trustworthy.

vs 14

When you think about this - that a king has the power over life and death, and can still be taken by whims of wrath- suddenly the idea that wisdom can bring life becomes very meaningful.

vs 15

How many stories have we heard of a monarch passing down some sort of blessing onto someone that he sees as worthy - like a knighthood or a jewel or something. But even just knowing the king might remember you, and so smile upon you in some way, is positive.

vs 16

Mmm, sweet, tasty wisdom. Just a reminder how good wisdom is.

vs 17

Life and righteousness are linked, and importantly so. Walking on the road of the righteous is like walking on a well lit street with CCTV cameras - you're less likely to get mugged.

vs 18

Pride comes before a fall - you heard it here first.

vs 19

Wow, that makes pride pretty bad. Better to be poor and oppressed and depressed than proud? Wow. But then, I suppose pride is really bumping God out of his rightful place. So in wisdom terms, that's serious.

vs 20

Listen to good advice, we've heard that before. But also make sure you trust God.

vs 21

I struggle with the wording of this verse. So the wise are discerning... okay. And gracious words promote instruction... fine. I suppose. Wait, what? My brain just doesn't seem to be clicking into gear. Perhaps this is just another one of those truism things. The first is, certainly. The second, I suppose, is instructive - supporting what we would call positive reinforcement.

vs 22

These fountains of life are quite popular. This one is full of prudence. Of course, the prudent have prudence, which is why we call them prudent. Fools meanwhile get punished for no other reason other than they are in fact fools. It's good to be prudent.