Chapter Sixteen

The plans of the mind belong to man, but how they turn out depends upon Jehovah.

The ways of a man may seem proper in his own eyes, but it is Jehovah who appraises the spirit behind them.

Dedicate your labors to Jehovah and your goals will be accomplished.

Jehovah has created everything for its own purpose, even the wicked for their day of destruction.

Jehovah detests all those who are arrogant of mind; indeed they will not go unpunished.

Sin is atoned for by faithful love and truthfulness; it is through a reverence for Jehovah that one avoids evil.

When a person’s ways are pleasing to Jehovah, he induces even his enemies to be at peace with him.

Better to have little and be upright than to achieve great gain dishonestly.

The mind of a man plans his course, but Jehovah determines his steps.

Divine words proceed from the lips of the king whose speech does not err in judgment.

An accurate balance and an honest scale are Jehovah’s and all the weights in the bag are of his making.

Wrongdoing is an abomination to kings, for the throne is established by righteousness.

Words from righteous lips are a delight to kings, who love those who speak honestly.

The wrath of a king is a bearer of death, but a wise man will pacify it.

The light on a king’s face is life, and his favor is a cloud that brings the rain in spring.

How much better to acquire wisdom than gold; to gain understanding is preferable to silver.

The path of the upright leads away from evil, and he who pays attention to the road he takes preserves his life.

Arrogance precedes destruction, a pompous attitude, a downfall.

Better to be meek and dwell among the poor than to share the plunder of the proud.

He who handles his affairs with wisdom will prosper and whoever has faith in Jehovah will find happiness.

Those who have intelligent minds are astute and use  smooth words to promote learning.

Understanding is the fountain of life to those who possess it, but teaching fools is folly.

Those who have intelligent minds watch their language and their words impart learning.

Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

There is a way that seems right to a man, but which in the end leads to his destruction.

The appetite of a worker works for him, for his hunger urges him on.

The worthless man unearths mischief and his words are inflammatory.

A devious man stirs up strife and a gossip breaks up the best of friends.

A violent man tempts his neighbor and leads him down a path that is unwholesome.

Whoever winks his eye is plotting devious acts; he who purses his lips has accomplished evil deeds.

Gray hair makes a crown of glory; it is attained on the path of righteousness.

Better the man who is patient than the man who is powerful, better he who controls his nature than he who conquers a city.

The die may be cast into the lap, but its every fall is determined by Jehovah.