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Proverbs 16:3
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- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
3 Roll on Jahve thy works, So thy thoughts shall prosper. The proverbs Pro 16:1-3 are wanting in the lxx; their absence is compensated for by three others, but only externally, not according to their worth. Instead of גּל, the Syr., Targ., and Jerome read גּל, revela, with which the על, Psa 37:5, cf. Psa 55:23, interchanging with אל (here and at Psa 22:9), does not agree; rightly Theodotion, κύλισον ἐπὶ κύριον, and Luther, "commend to the Lord thy works." The works are here, not those that are executed, Exo 23:16, but those to be executed, as Psa 90:17, where כּונן, here the active to ויכּונוּ, which at Pro 4:26 as jussive meant to be placed right, here with ו of the consequence in the apodosis imperativi: to be brought about, and to have continuance, or briefly: to stand (cf. Pro 12:3) as the contrast of disappointment or ruin. We should roll on God all matters which, as obligations, burden us, and on account of their weight and difficulty cause us great anxiety, for nothing is too heavy or too hard for Him who can overcome all difficulties and dissolve all perplexities; then will our thoughts, viz., those about the future of our duty and our life-course, be happy, nothing will remain entangled and be a failure, but will be accomplished, and the end and aim be realized.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Compare Margin). Rely on God for success to your lawful purposes.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Commit thy works unto the Lord,.... Natural, civil, or religious; seek to him for strength and assistance in all, and leave the success of all with him: or "roll thy works on" or "unto the Lord" (b); devolve all upon him, cast all care upon him and his providence for supply, support, and sustenance in life; and commit the business of the salvation of thy soul, and the important affairs of it, wholly to him, who is able, willing, and faithful, to keep what is committed to him; and, having so done, may sit down easy and satisfied, as one that is rid of a burden by casting it on another, better able to bear it, or more equal to the work committed to him: the Targum is, "reveal thy works to God"; and so the Syriac and Vulgate Latin versions, "reveal thy works to the Lord"; thy case, condition, and circumstances; thy wants and necessities; seek and ask for a supply of him, make known thy requests to him; for though he is not ignorant of the affairs of his people, yet he will be sought unto to do the things for them he intends to do, and they stand in need of; and thy thoughts shall be established; when a man has, by faith and in prayer, committed himself, his case, his ways and works, to the Lord, his mind is made easy, his thoughts are composed and settled, and he quietly waits the issues of things; he says, the will of the Lord be done; he knows that he causes all things to work together for good; and whatever is for his good and God's glory shall be brought to pass; and this makes him calm, sedate, and easy; and he is in a fair way of having his designs, desires, and endeavours accomplished; see Psa 37:5. (b) "devolve in Jehovam facta tua", Junius & Tremellius; "negotia tua", Piscator; "volve in Dominum quae tibi facieuda sunt", Michaelis; "volve ad Jehovam opera tua", Pagninus, Montanus, Cocceius; so Mercerus, Gejerus, Schultens, Tigurine version.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Note, 1. It is a very desirable thing to have our thoughts established, and not tossed, and put into a hurry, by disquieting cares and fears, - to go on in an even steady course of honesty and piety, not disturbed, or put out of frame, by any event or change, - to be satisfied that all shall work for good and issue well at last, and therefore to be always easy and sedate. 2. The only way to have our thoughts established is to commit our works to the Lord. The great concerns of our souls must be committed to the grace of God, with a dependence upon and submission to the conduct of that grace (Ti2 1:12); all our outward concerns must be committed to the providence of God, and to the sovereign, wise, and gracious disposal of that providence. Roll thy works upon the Lord (so the word is); roll the burden of thy care from thyself upon God. Lay the matter before him by prayer. Make known thy works unto the Lord (so some read it), not only the works of thy hand, but the workings of thy heart; and then leave it with him, by faith and dependence upon him, submission and resignation to him. The will of the Lord be done. We may then be easy when we resolve that whatever pleases God shall please us.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
16:3 God must affirm our plans (16:1), so it makes sense to ask his help in accomplishing our goals (see Jas 4:13-16).
Proverbs 16:3
The Reply of the Tongue Is from the LORD
2All a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but his motives are weighed out by the LORD. 3Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be achieved.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Whats Wrong With the Gospel - Part 1
By Keith Green15K44:14PSA 37:4PRO 3:5PRO 16:3PRO 16:9JER 29:11MAT 7:7ROM 12:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing the journey of faith. They encourage listeners to seek solutions and growth in their spiritual lives, rather than simply relying on external factors. The speaker also addresses the need for a welcoming and inclusive environment for those who may not have a strong religious background. They emphasize the importance of personal growth and choosing a path that aligns with one's dreams and aspirations. The sermon concludes with a reminder to continually learn and grow in one's faith.
(Dangers in the Way Series): Dangers of Idleness and Busyness
By A.W. Tozer8.3K25:35BusynessPRO 14:23PRO 16:3DAN 6:10MAT 6:33JHN 1:1EPH 5:15JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker discusses the dangers that Christians may encounter on their spiritual journey. The speaker emphasizes the importance of walking circumspectly and not being foolish, but wise. They also highlight the need for Christians to take time to cultivate their relationship with God, just as Dr. Rubin Atorio did by taking two weeks off every year to spend time in nature and reflect on God's truth. The speaker warns against excessive religious work, as it can hinder the effectiveness of one's spiritual work. They encourage Christians to find their place in the kingdom of God and contribute in meaningful ways, using the example of a man who took care of the church lawn and saw it flourish under his care.
Prayer 05 Conditions - Effective Prayer
By Alden Gannett2.1K48:56Effectual PrayerJOS 1:1PSA 119:105PRO 16:3MAT 6:33ACT 13:2COL 3:151JN 5:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking and knowing the will of God for our lives. He highlights that God is the Lord of the Harvest and it is His plan and purpose that we should follow. The speaker shares his personal testimony of initially rebelling against God's calling to preach and be a missionary. He encourages the audience to actively search for God's will and to let the peace of God act as an umpire in their hearts. The sermon references Matthew 9, which speaks of God as the Lord of the Harvest, and Colossians 3:15, which urges believers to let the peace of God rule in their hearts.
Founding of the Salvation Army
By William Booth1.7K02:29PSA 33:3PRO 16:3EPH 6:11COL 3:16This sermon delves into the origins of The Salvation Army, tracing back to a pivotal moment in 1878 when the description 'Salvation Army' was first introduced by William Booth, emphasizing the organization's purpose and character. The sermon explores the transition to a military form of government and the adoption of a distinctive uniform, highlighting the significance of music in the army's mission and the establishment of a musical department to enhance its impact.
The Missionary (Compilation)
By Compilations1.0K03:02CompilationPRO 16:3MAT 25:40LUK 14:28ACT 1:8ROM 12:2JAS 2:171JN 3:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of taking action and showing God that we are serious about our faith. He challenges the congregation to fill the back seat of their cars every Sunday for a year, as a tangible demonstration of their commitment to spreading the word of God. The preacher shares a personal story about his father rescuing people from sin and leading them to Jesus, highlighting the power of individual efforts in making a difference. He concludes by stating that America can only be saved through a revival that leads people to hate sin, repent, and turn to God.
Nehemiah 6 - Part 6
By Joshua Daniel1.0K08:33NEH 4:6PRO 16:31CO 3:9EPH 4:3COL 3:23This sermon emphasizes the importance of unity and dedication in building the walls of Jerusalem, drawing parallels to the fragmented efforts of individuals versus the unified work of a community. It challenges preachers and leaders to focus on building God's kingdom together in harmony, rather than seeking personal glory or superficial enhancements. The ultimate goal is to have the work recognized as God's doing, bringing humility and awe to all who witness it.
Being a Christian Writer
By E.A. Johnston96217:25WritingPRO 16:3ECC 9:101CO 10:31COL 3:232TI 2:15JAS 1:51PE 4:10In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience as a Christian writer and offers advice to aspiring writers in the Christian community. He emphasizes the importance of staying positive and reading quality books to learn from other authors. The speaker also encourages writers to strive for precision in their writing, even spending hours on a single sentence if necessary. He shares his own journey of rejection and reminds writers that perseverance is key in this challenging profession. Overall, the message aims to inspire and encourage Christian writers to continue their work and pursue their calling.
Lukewarm No More - Part 16
By George Verwer95510:09LukewarmPSA 119:11PRO 16:3MAT 28:19EPH 4:2JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of setting goals during a missions conference. He encourages the audience to set personal goals in areas such as prayer and increasing their vision. The speaker urges the audience to be doers of the word and not just hearers. He quotes C.T. Stubbs, a missionary, who encourages believers to be grabbers of the impossible rather than nibblers of the possible. The speaker also shares a personal experience of how he was convicted to be more disciplined in his Bible study by writing down daily reflections from the word of God. He concludes by suggesting that a church like theirs could easily raise a million dollars for missions and encourages the audience to have greater aims for the Muslim world.
A Radical Revolution Taking a Stand for a Literal Genesis
By Ken Ham90144:11PRO 3:5PRO 16:3ROM 12:21CO 10:31EPH 2:10PHP 4:13COL 3:23HEB 4:121PE 4:101JN 4:19This sermon focuses on three intentional goals for the audience: expressing love to God, encountering a word from God, and experiencing transformation by God. The speaker emphasizes the importance of people and their interactions, highlighting the need for passion, creativity, and confidence in one's actions. Additionally, there is a call to examine and understand the work being done, especially in light of current challenges and the need for preparation and readiness.
Help! My Faith Is Faltering
By Shane Idleman72851:02PSA 51:17PRO 16:3MAT 9:18ROM 1:20HEB 11:1HEB 11:6JAS 1:3This sermon emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God, highlighting how faith can falter when worship, obedience, reinforcement of God's promises, and trust are lacking. It stresses the need for a fully surrendered life to build strong faith, drawing examples from biblical figures like Abraham, Sarah, and Noah. The message encourages diligent seeking of God, reinforcing promises, and trusting Him even in the midst of trials and tragedies.
(Clip) Useful to the Lord in Winning Souls
By Bob Jennings70406:28PRO 16:3ECC 9:10ISA 6:8MAT 4:191CO 15:58EPH 2:10COL 3:232TI 2:211PE 4:10This sermon emphasizes the privilege and honor of serving the Lord, comparing it to the story of a young boy who felt honored to work for a farmer without expecting payment. It encourages believers to be willing and ready to be sent by God, to be fishers of men, and to steward the grace and gifts given by God. The sermon also highlights the impactful lives of historical figures like William Bramwell and Thomas Collins, who dedicated themselves to being useful to God and saw miraculous conversions through their obedience.
50 - Practical Steps to Be a Witness to North Korea
By Ben Torrey65907:34North KoreaPRO 16:3MAT 28:19In this sermon, Ben Torrey discusses the importance of personal preparation for those who feel called to share God's love in North Korea. He emphasizes the need to be in a right relationship with God and to rely on the Holy Spirit. Torrey suggests joining a prepared people group as a practical step towards getting involved in preparing for this mission. He also encourages individuals to learn as much as possible about North Korea and its culture to avoid misunderstandings and potential problems.
What Is an Open Closed Door?
By Shane Idleman55150:47PRO 16:3ISA 30:21JHN 14:6ACT 16:6ACT 16:16ROM 1:28This sermon delves into the concept of open and closed doors in our lives, emphasizing the importance of discerning God's will. It explores the idea that closed doors may lead to better opportunities, and encourages seeking God's guidance through prayer and humility. The narrative from Acts 16 about Paul and Silas in prison highlights the power of praise, confronting darkness, and leading others to salvation.
Mp3 Gv1119 Ed No 6
By George Verwer4831:16:45Christian LifePRO 16:3MAT 6:33LUK 10:2EPH 6:18PHP 4:61TH 5:17JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of building habits in the Christian life. He encourages seminary students to prioritize their study and use their time wisely to develop these habits. The speaker also discusses the struggle of finding balance in reading and preparing for ministry, as well as witnessing to others. He then shifts the focus to the topic of world missions and the need for a balanced perspective. The speaker challenges misconceptions about missionary work and highlights the diversity of wealth in countries like India.
Q+a 18.4.86
By George Verwer46443:55MissionsPRO 16:3MAT 11:28In this sermon transcript, the speaker begins by mentioning the controversies and tensions in the Arab world and other parts of the work. However, he emphasizes that this is God's work and encourages the listeners not to panic. The speaker then shares a personal anecdote about playing golf with a friend and reflects on the importance of common sense in their organization. He also mentions the challenges of communication and the need for personal fellowship. Overall, the speaker encourages the audience to have faith, relax, worship God, and not be consumed by workaholism.
Amusing - Enough Poetry
By Major Ian Thomas1900:22Passion in FaithAuthenticityPRO 16:3ROM 12:111CO 10:31EPH 2:10COL 3:23Major Ian Thomas reflects on the balance between creativity and substance, using the metaphor of poetry and fire to illustrate the need for genuine passion and depth in our expressions. He suggests that while one may have artistic talent, it is essential to ensure that this talent is fueled by a deeper, more meaningful source. The sermon encourages listeners to evaluate whether their creative endeavors are truly ignited by the Spirit or merely superficial. Thomas emphasizes the importance of authenticity in our spiritual lives, urging believers to seek a deeper connection with God.
When God Speaks: Discerning the Voice of God Part 2
By Shane Idleman181:03:04Discerning God's VoiceFaith and ObedienceGEN 22:3PSA 119:105PRO 16:3ISA 40:31MAT 7:7LUK 14:26ROM 12:2HEB 11:1JAS 1:221PE 5:6Shane Idleman emphasizes the critical need to discern the voice of God amidst the many distractions and competing voices in our lives. He highlights that true clarity comes from pressing into God through prayer, worship, and obedience, even when His will challenges our comfort and desires. Using the example of Abraham's faith and obedience in sacrificing Isaac, he illustrates that God's will often requires us to surrender what we love most, trusting that He will provide. Idleman encourages believers to seek godly counsel, remain immersed in Scripture, and act in faith, as true faith is demonstrated through action. Ultimately, he calls for humility and a willingness to put God on the throne of our lives, as pride can hinder our relationship with Him.
Thomas Myerscough (1858-1932)
By Keith Malcomson2PRO 2:3PRO 16:3ACT 1:81CO 12:4EPH 4:11COL 3:162TI 2:152TI 4:2HEB 13:71PE 4:10Keith Malcomson reflects on the forgotten Pentecostal pioneer, Thomas Myerscough, highlighting his strategic labor in God's purpose, his journey of seeking the baptism in the Holy Spirit, and his significant impact on the early Pentecostal movement through Bible teaching and leadership. Myerscough's dedication to studying the Scriptures, leading to the establishment of a Pentecostal center in Preston and a thriving church, showcases the power of deep searching of the Word and strong Bible teaching in building a spiritual community. His role in forming the Assemblies of God of Great Britain and Ireland and his contributions to hymnals and Pentecostal conventions demonstrate his wisdom, leadership, and commitment to spreading the Gospel.
I Am an Idea
By Jack Hyles0PRO 3:5PRO 4:23PRO 16:3PHP 4:8JAS 1:22Jack Hyles delivers a powerful sermon on the significance of embracing and nurturing ideas that come to our minds, emphasizing the potential impact these ideas can have on our lives, families, churches, and the world. He highlights the importance of not neglecting these ideas, as they could be the key to success, blessings, and making a difference in the lives of many. Hyles stresses the simplicity of capturing these ideas on a three-by-five card, providing them a space to dwell and grow, ultimately leading to a life of significance and influence.
Faith That Acts in Faith
By A.W. Tozer0Faith in ActionPractical ChristianityPRO 16:3MAT 7:71CO 9:242CO 5:7GAL 5:6EPH 2:10PHP 4:13COL 3:23HEB 11:1JAS 2:17A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of acting on our faith rather than merely expressing it through prayer or enthusiasm. He illustrates this with the story of a farm boy who prays for fish while ignoring the practical means of fishing, highlighting that faith must be accompanied by action. Tozer argues that being overly pious without taking the necessary steps can lead to missed opportunities, and true faith involves using the intelligence and resources God has provided. He challenges the notion of fanaticism in faith, suggesting that genuine enthusiasm should lead to tangible actions in pursuit of God's blessings.
Overcome by Melancholy
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 59:16PRO 16:3ROM 15:13PHP 4:61PE 5:7Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the importance of finding refuge and defense in God during times of trouble, encouraging believers to commit their ways to Him and cast their cares upon Him. She highlights the power of doing acts of kindness to combat melancholy and advises against giving in to depression, urging listeners to bear discomforts with bravery and surrender to the Lord. Tileston warns against being subdued by melancholy, stating that it can hinder one's path to holiness, and emphasizes that joy and peace from the love of God are essential for perseverance in the Christian journey.
To the Army
By Isaac Penington0PSA 25:9PRO 3:5PRO 16:31CO 1:27JAS 4:10Isaac Penington preaches to the army, urging them to reflect on their past betrayals of the Lord and the missed opportunities to fulfill His work. He calls for humility, meekness, and a readiness to listen to the Lord in order to avoid being deceived again. Penington warns against the dangers of fleshly reasoning and urges the army to keep simplicity alive, seeking God's guidance to prevent worldly wisdom from taking over. He encourages them to stay upright and faithful to the Lord's purposes, carrying out His will without deviation.
An Account of the Several Annual Conferences, and of the General Conference of 1792
By Nathan Bangs0PRO 16:31CO 1:101CO 14:331CO 14:40EPH 4:31TI 4:161TI 6:112TI 4:21PE 3:81PE 5:2Nathan Bangs preaches about the early struggles and triumphs of Methodism in America, highlighting the dedication of Bishop Asbury in traveling extensively to preach and extend the work of God, facing hardships and dangers along the way. As Methodism spread to newly settled territories like Tennessee, the preachers encountered challenges, including threats from Indians and harsh living conditions. The General Conference of 1792 was convened in Baltimore to address the need for unity and central authority in the Methodist Church, leading to the establishment of rules and regulations to govern the conduct of bishops, preachers, and members. The conference also witnessed the secession of James O'Kelly, who formed a separate party known as the 'Republican Methodists,' causing division and confusion but ultimately fading into obscurity.
Donald Gee (1891-1966)
By Keith Malcomson0PRO 16:31CO 15:58PHP 3:142TI 4:7HEB 12:1Keith Malcomson preaches about the life and ministry of Donald Gee, a man who faced struggles and challenges but remained faithful to God's calling. From his early conversion to his international ministry trips, Gee's life exemplified dedication, perseverance, and a heart for teaching and spreading the Pentecostal Movement worldwide. Despite facing opposition and setbacks, Gee continued to serve God with wisdom and humility, leaving a lasting impact on the Pentecostal community through his writing, teaching, and leadership.
From the Arrival of the First Missionaries in 1769 to the First Conference in 1773
By Nathan Bangs0PSA 96:3PRO 16:3ISA 6:8MAT 28:19ACT 1:8ROM 10:141CO 3:62TI 4:2Nathan Bangs preaches about the early missions in America from 1769 to 1773, highlighting the zeal and success of the first missionaries, such as Messrs. Boardman, Pillmore, and others, in spreading the gospel and forming societies in various states. The arrival of Francis Asbury and Richard Wright in 1771 marked a significant step in providing additional help for the growing work in America. Despite opposition from some clergy, the Methodist preachers, including Robert Williams and John King, persevered in their mission, leading to the establishment of new societies and the revival of religion in different regions. The itinerant labors of Mr. Asbury and the arrival of missionaries Rankin and Shadford in 1773 further fueled the spread of the gospel and the formation of Methodist societies across the country.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
3 Roll on Jahve thy works, So thy thoughts shall prosper. The proverbs Pro 16:1-3 are wanting in the lxx; their absence is compensated for by three others, but only externally, not according to their worth. Instead of גּל, the Syr., Targ., and Jerome read גּל, revela, with which the על, Psa 37:5, cf. Psa 55:23, interchanging with אל (here and at Psa 22:9), does not agree; rightly Theodotion, κύλισον ἐπὶ κύριον, and Luther, "commend to the Lord thy works." The works are here, not those that are executed, Exo 23:16, but those to be executed, as Psa 90:17, where כּונן, here the active to ויכּונוּ, which at Pro 4:26 as jussive meant to be placed right, here with ו of the consequence in the apodosis imperativi: to be brought about, and to have continuance, or briefly: to stand (cf. Pro 12:3) as the contrast of disappointment or ruin. We should roll on God all matters which, as obligations, burden us, and on account of their weight and difficulty cause us great anxiety, for nothing is too heavy or too hard for Him who can overcome all difficulties and dissolve all perplexities; then will our thoughts, viz., those about the future of our duty and our life-course, be happy, nothing will remain entangled and be a failure, but will be accomplished, and the end and aim be realized.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Compare Margin). Rely on God for success to your lawful purposes.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Commit thy works unto the Lord,.... Natural, civil, or religious; seek to him for strength and assistance in all, and leave the success of all with him: or "roll thy works on" or "unto the Lord" (b); devolve all upon him, cast all care upon him and his providence for supply, support, and sustenance in life; and commit the business of the salvation of thy soul, and the important affairs of it, wholly to him, who is able, willing, and faithful, to keep what is committed to him; and, having so done, may sit down easy and satisfied, as one that is rid of a burden by casting it on another, better able to bear it, or more equal to the work committed to him: the Targum is, "reveal thy works to God"; and so the Syriac and Vulgate Latin versions, "reveal thy works to the Lord"; thy case, condition, and circumstances; thy wants and necessities; seek and ask for a supply of him, make known thy requests to him; for though he is not ignorant of the affairs of his people, yet he will be sought unto to do the things for them he intends to do, and they stand in need of; and thy thoughts shall be established; when a man has, by faith and in prayer, committed himself, his case, his ways and works, to the Lord, his mind is made easy, his thoughts are composed and settled, and he quietly waits the issues of things; he says, the will of the Lord be done; he knows that he causes all things to work together for good; and whatever is for his good and God's glory shall be brought to pass; and this makes him calm, sedate, and easy; and he is in a fair way of having his designs, desires, and endeavours accomplished; see Psa 37:5. (b) "devolve in Jehovam facta tua", Junius & Tremellius; "negotia tua", Piscator; "volve in Dominum quae tibi facieuda sunt", Michaelis; "volve ad Jehovam opera tua", Pagninus, Montanus, Cocceius; so Mercerus, Gejerus, Schultens, Tigurine version.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Note, 1. It is a very desirable thing to have our thoughts established, and not tossed, and put into a hurry, by disquieting cares and fears, - to go on in an even steady course of honesty and piety, not disturbed, or put out of frame, by any event or change, - to be satisfied that all shall work for good and issue well at last, and therefore to be always easy and sedate. 2. The only way to have our thoughts established is to commit our works to the Lord. The great concerns of our souls must be committed to the grace of God, with a dependence upon and submission to the conduct of that grace (Ti2 1:12); all our outward concerns must be committed to the providence of God, and to the sovereign, wise, and gracious disposal of that providence. Roll thy works upon the Lord (so the word is); roll the burden of thy care from thyself upon God. Lay the matter before him by prayer. Make known thy works unto the Lord (so some read it), not only the works of thy hand, but the workings of thy heart; and then leave it with him, by faith and dependence upon him, submission and resignation to him. The will of the Lord be done. We may then be easy when we resolve that whatever pleases God shall please us.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
16:3 God must affirm our plans (16:1), so it makes sense to ask his help in accomplishing our goals (see Jas 4:13-16).