16:1   We may make our plans, but God has the last word.

16:2   You may think everything you do is right, but the LORD judges your motives.

16:3   Ask the LORD to bless your plans, and you will be successful in carrying them out.

16:4   Everything the LORD has made has its destiny; and the destiny of the wicked is destruction.

16:5   The LORD hates everyone who is arrogant; he will never let them escape punishment.

16:6   Be loyal and faithful, and God will forgive your sin. Obey the LORD and nothing evil will happen to you.

16:7   When you please the LORD, you can make your enemies into friends.

16:8   It is better to have a little, honestly earned, than to have a large income, dishonestly gained.

16:9   You may make your plans, but God directs your actions.

16:10   The king speaks with divine authority; his decisions are always right.

16:11   The LORD wants weights and measures to be honest and every sale to be fair.

16:12   Kings cannot tolerate evil, because justice is what makes a government strong.

16:13   A king wants to hear the truth and will favor those who speak it.

16:14   A wise person will try to keep the king happy; if the king becomes angry, someone may die.

16:15   The king's favor is like the clouds that bring rain in the springtime---life is there.

16:16   It is better---much better---to have wisdom and knowledge than gold and silver.

16:17   Those who are good travel a road that avoids evil; so watch where you are going---it may save your life.

16:18   Pride leads to destruction, and arrogance to downfall.

16:19   It is better to be humble and stay poor than to be one of the arrogant and get a share of their loot.

16:20   Pay attention to what you are taught, and you will be successful; trust in the LORD and you will be happy.

16:21   A wise, mature person is known for his understanding. The more pleasant his words, the more persuasive he is.

16:22   Wisdom is a fountain of life to the wise, but trying to educate stupid people is a waste of time.

16:23   Intelligent people think before they speak; what they say is then more persuasive.

16:24   Kind words are like honey---sweet to the taste and good for your health.

16:25   What you think is the right road may lead to death.

16:26   A laborer's appetite makes him work harder, because he wants to satisfy his hunger.

16:27   Evil people look for ways to harm others; even their words burn with evil.

16:28   Gossip is spread by wicked people; they stir up trouble and break up friendships.

16:29   Violent people deceive their friends and lead them to disaster.

16:30   Watch out for people who grin and wink at you; they have thought of something evil.

16:31   Long life is the reward of the righteous; gray hair is a glorious crown.

16:32   It is better to be patient than powerful. It is better to win control over yourself than over whole cities.

16:33   People cast lots to learn God's will, but God himself determines the answer.