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Proverbs 16:7
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Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
7 If Jahve has pleasure in the ways of a man, He reconciles even his enemies to him - properly (for השׁלים is here the causative of the transitive, Jos 10:1): He brings it about that they conclude peace with him. If God has pleasure in the ways of a man, i.e., in the designs which he prosecutes, and in the means which he employs, he shows, by the great consequences which flow from his endeavours, that, even as his enemies also acknowledge, God is with him (e.g., Gen 26:27.), so that they, vanquished in heart (e.g., Sa2 19:9.), abandon their hostile position, and become his friends. For if it is manifest that God makes Himself known, bestowing blessings on a man, there lies in this a power of conviction which disarms his most bitter opponents, excepting only those who have in selfishness hardened themselves.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Persecutions, of course, excepted.
John Gill Bible Commentary
When a man's ways please the Lord,.... As they do when a man walks according to the rule of his word; when he walks as he has Christ for an example; when he walks after the Spirit, and not after the flesh; when he walks by faith, and does all he does in faith; without which it is impossible to please God, Heb 11:6; and when all his ways and actions are directed to the glory of God; he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him; as Abimelech with Isaac, Esau with Jacob; and the enemies of the church and people of God with then, in the latter day, Rev 3:9.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Note, 1. God can turn foes into friends when he pleases. He that has all hearts in his hand has access to men's spirits and power over them, working insensibly, but irresistibly upon them, can make a man's enemies to be at peace with him, can change their minds, or force them into a feigned submission. He can slay all enemies, and bring those together that were at the greatest distance from each other. 2. He will do it for us when we please him. If we make it our care to be reconciled to God, and to keep ourselves in his love, he will incline those that have been envious towards us, and vexatious to us, to entertain a good opinion of us and to become our friends. God made Esau to be at peace with Jacob, Abimelech with Isaac, and David's enemies to court his favour and desire a league with Israel. The image of God appearing upon the righteous, and his particular lovingkindness to them, are enough to recommend them to the respect of all, even of those that have been most prejudiced against them.
Proverbs 16:7
The Reply of the Tongue Is from the LORD
6By loving devotion and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for, and by the fear of the LORD one turns aside from evil. 7When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even the man’s enemies live at peace with him.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Placing Your Enemies in the Hands of God
By Carter Conlon2.9K1:01:09EnemiesGEN 12:3JDG 9:1PSA 37:5PRO 16:7MAT 6:33ROM 12:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of listening to God's word in order to receive His blessings. He tells a story using the imagery of different trees representing different choices in life. The preacher emphasizes the need to walk the narrow path of truth and follow God's will. He also emphasizes the importance of having a relationship with God and loving Him, rather than just following legalistic rules. The sermon concludes with a call to place our enemies in the hand of God and release them, seeking mercy and salvation for them.
A Life of Peace
By Zac Poonen1.9K57:13PRO 16:7MAT 5:9ROM 8:62TI 3:13HEB 4:9JAS 3:18This sermon emphasizes the importance of pursuing a life of peace in three key areas: peace with God inwardly, peace with all men, and peace in circumstances and relationships. It encourages listeners to seek a disciplined life, non-judgmental attitude, self-acknowledgement, and a life of peace amidst trials and tribulations.
Studies in Isaiah - Part 6
By Harry Ironside1.7K46:32ExpositoryPRO 16:7ISA 15:9ISA 40:3ISA 48:22ISA 49:6ISA 58:1ISA 60:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of having a clear understanding of the outline of the Bible. He mentions that the book of Isaiah can be divided into three parts: chapters 40-48 focus on God's controversy with Israel regarding idolatry, chapters 49-57 address Israel's attitude towards the Messiah, and the rest of the book (chapters 58 to the end) emphasizes the ministry designed to exercise the conscience in view of the coming glory. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of studying and memorizing the outline of each chapter in order to have a comprehensive understanding of the book. He shares a personal practice of going over a book repeatedly until he can recall the leading theme of each chapter with ease.
Our Gracious God by Brain Brodersen
By Brian Brodersen1.3K33:53NUM 6:22PSA 29:11PSA 103:13PSA 139:1PRO 16:7ISA 26:3MAT 6:26PHP 4:7JAS 1:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of having the right concept of God for our spiritual well-being, highlighting God's desire to bless, keep, smile upon, be gracious, be attentive, and give peace to His people. It discusses the misrepresentation of God throughout history and the need to properly understand and represent God's character. The sermon encourages focusing on studying and understanding the nature and attributes of God to experience His peace and blessings in the tumultuous world we live in.
The Word of God (Compilation)
By Compilations1.1K03:23CompilationPSA 119:105PRO 16:7ISA 55:11MAT 4:4JHN 8:32ROM 8:37HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and importance of the Word of God. He highlights that the Word of God sanctifies, renews the mind, and separates believers from the world. The preacher emphasizes the need to believe and count the cost of the Word, as it is what sets people free and brings about transformation. He also mentions that the Word of God grants favor with God and men, brings light and peace, and guides believers in straight paths. The preacher emphasizes that the Word of God is eternal, powerful, and always accomplishes its purpose.
09 New Wine in New Wineskins God Will Exalt Us in His Time
By Zac Poonen97359:46PRO 16:7MAT 5:44JHN 1:42TI 2:2HEB 10:34This sermon emphasizes the importance of passing on the teachings of faith from one generation to the next, focusing on the need for godly leaders to entrust their knowledge to faithful individuals who will continue the legacy. It highlights the significance of forgiveness, loving one's enemies, and seeking peace as essential aspects of living a Christ-like life. The speaker shares personal testimonies of overcoming challenges through forgiveness and trusting in God's grace to rule over sin and Satan.
Pleasing God - Pt. 2
By Kay Smith95949:01Pleasing GodPSA 37:4PSA 119:105PRO 16:7JER 29:13MAT 6:33HEB 11:5JAS 4:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking and knowing God as a personal being. They encourage the audience to study the Bible and other Christian literature to understand how God interacts with individuals. The speaker also highlights the life of Jesus as a way to understand God's character and actions. They emphasize the need to diligently seek God and share personal testimonies of how God has answered their prayers and done the impossible in their lives.
To the Present Distracted and Broken Nation of England
By Edward Burrough02CH 7:14PSA 33:12PSA 37:37PSA 85:10PRO 14:34PRO 16:7PRO 29:2ISA 1:4JER 18:7MIC 6:8Edward Burrough preaches a message of lamentation and mourning over the divisions, distractions, and sins plaguing the nation of England. He highlights the consequences of the nation's sins, the lack of true peace and unity, and the need for repentance and turning back to God. Burrough emphasizes the importance of seeking the Lord's guidance and righteousness in governance, warning against self-seeking and corruption in leadership. He calls for a genuine transformation, urging the nation to forsake iniquities, embrace righteousness, and seek true peace, unity, and justice under God's rule.
Friends, - Seek the Peace of All Men
By George Fox0PRO 16:7MAT 5:9EPH 4:29PHP 4:7George Fox preaches about seeking the peace of all men, emphasizing that true peace is found in Christ and peacemakers will be blessed by the Lord. He warns against causing strife and offense, urging everyone to walk in the righteousness of Christ to experience true peace and delight in God's love. Fox encourages practicing righteousness, truth, and judgment, and being careful with words and actions to maintain virtue and goodness in all dealings.
All Things Work Together
By Robert Haldane0PSA 84:11PRO 16:7HOS 2:18ROM 8:282CO 4:17Robert Haldane preaches on the comforting truth that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose. Believers are assured that even in the midst of overwhelming adverse circumstances, everything is orchestrated by God to lead them to their heavenly inheritance. God, as the first cause, governs all second causes to ultimately work for the good of His children, using even afflictions to contribute to their well-being.
A Young Man Who Decides to Say "No"
By Denis Lyle0PRO 16:7DAN 1:8ROM 12:2HEB 11:321JN 2:171JN 5:4Denis Lyle preaches on the story of Daniel, a young man who courageously decides to say 'NO' to conforming to the ways of Babylon despite facing immense pressure. Daniel's unwavering faith and commitment to God's principles in the midst of a new land, new curriculum, new culture, and religious challenges serve as a powerful example for believers today. By purposing in his heart to stand firm, Daniel not only overcomes the trials but also becomes an inspiration and influence, showcasing the blessings and favor of God upon those who honor Him.
The Way to Please God
By James Smith0PRO 16:7ROM 8:81CO 7:322CO 5:9PHP 2:13COL 1:101TH 4:1HEB 11:6HEB 13:161JN 3:22James Smith preaches on the importance of living a life that pleases the Lord, emphasizing the need to detach from worldly desires and focus on seeking to please God above all else. He highlights key principles such as having right views of God, being reconciled to Him through Christ, exercising filial confidence, keeping our eyes on Him, and cheerfully acquiescing to His will. Smith also stresses the significance of honoring Jesus, striving against sin, being zealous for God's cause, avoiding what displeases Him, and aiming at His glory in all aspects of life.
Anderson , Sir Robert Bio
By John Bjorlie0PRO 16:7MAT 5:16ROM 1:161CO 15:581PE 3:15John Bjorlie preaches about the remarkable life of Sir Robert Anderson, a man of faith and integrity who faced controversy with grace and conviction. Anderson's journey from doubt to faith, his impactful role in the Irish revival, and his distinguished career in law enforcement while remaining dedicated to sharing the Gospel, exemplify a life lived in service to God. His commitment to prison reform and his influential writings on eternal truths continue to inspire and bear fruit, reflecting a deep reverence for God and a passion for defending biblical doctrines.
When Interests Collide
By A.W. Tozer0Conflict ResolutionThe Nature of SinPRO 16:7MAT 5:9ROM 12:18GAL 5:15JAS 4:1A.W. Tozer discusses how personal interests dictate relationships between individuals and nations, emphasizing that harmony exists only when interests align. He argues that human society is structured to serve the majority's interests, and conflicts arise when these interests clash, leading to hostility and war. Tozer highlights that all wars stem from a collision of interests, which he identifies as a manifestation of sin, referencing the biblical inquiry from James about the origins of conflicts.
External Religion, No Substitute for Godliness
By Thomas Reade0PSA 51:17PRO 16:7ISA 29:131CO 6:192TI 3:5HEB 6:101JN 3:2REV 3:20Thomas Reade preaches about the unprofitable nature of external religion when made a substitute for godliness, emphasizing the importance of true faith in Christ over mere formalities and rituals. He warns against self-deception and the dangers of substituting worldly pleasures for the promises of God. Reade encourages believers to seek true godliness, which leads to a life of faith, righteousness, and humility, ultimately resulting in peace and communion with God. He highlights the need for active service in the cause of Christ and the transformation that occurs when one surrenders to Jesus and experiences His love and mercy.
Pierce the Hearts of the Heathen
By George Fox0PRO 16:7ISA 60:1EPH 5:2COL 4:51PE 3:15George Fox preaches about the importance of spreading the Name and Truth of the Lord, being diligent in His service, and valiant for His Truth on Earth. He emphasizes the need to pierce the hearts of unbelievers, overturn their customs, and bring the Truth over the heads of the heathen. Fox encourages living in peace and love, confounding deceit, and being a blessing in the generation by walking in the Power and Wisdom of the Lord.
From the Death of Queen Alexandra to the Death of Antigonus
By Flavius Josephus0PSA 20:7PSA 33:12PSA 118:8PSA 146:3PRO 3:5PRO 16:7PRO 21:1ROM 12:18ROM 13:1ROM 15:5Flavius Josephus recounts the political intrigues and power struggles within Judea, highlighting the influence of Antipater and his sons, Herod and Phasaelus, in the governance of the region. The narrative includes the accusations against Herod, his trial before the Sanhedrin, and his subsequent rise to power with Roman support. The account also details the honors and alliances that the Romans, including Julius Caesar, bestowed upon the Jews, showcasing their courage, fidelity, and political significance in the region.
The Basis of Firm Peace of Heart and True Progress
By Thomas a Kempis0PSA 34:14PRO 16:7ISA 26:3MAT 5:9JHN 14:27ROM 12:18PHP 4:7COL 3:15JAS 3:171PE 5:7Thomas a Kempis preaches about finding true peace through humility, patience, and surrendering to the divine will. He emphasizes the importance of not seeking personal desires but focusing on pleasing God alone, avoiding rash judgments, and not getting entangled in unnecessary affairs. True peace is not the absence of disturbances or opposition but comes from offering oneself wholeheartedly to God's will, maintaining equanimity in all circumstances, and being willing to endure suffering with hope and gratitude.
From the Life of St. Seraphim of Sarov
By St. Seraphim of Sarov0PSA 56:10PSA 91:11PRO 16:7PHP 4:61TH 5:16St. Seraphim of Sarov, born in 1759, was under God's special protection from a young age, displaying exceptional piety and miraculous healings. His desire to become a monk was supported by his mother, and he eventually embarked on the monastic path after receiving spiritual guidance. St. Seraphim emphasized the importance of obedience, labor, prayer, and maintaining peace in one's heart. He experienced divine visions and ecstasies during his service as a deacon, highlighting his fiery love for God and communion with the heavenly powers.
Love Is Patient!
By R. Stanley0PRO 16:7ISA 26:3MAT 5:9ROM 12:12ROM 12:181CO 13:4GAL 5:22HEB 12:2JAS 1:42PE 1:6R. Stanley preaches on the importance of patience as the crown of virtues and the mark of perfection, emphasizing that love is patient according to 1 Corinthians 13. He delves into the connection between patience and various aspects of love such as joy, peace, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, highlighting the need for patience to mature and blossom in these virtues. The sermon explores biblical examples like Jesus, Paul, and Joseph to illustrate how patience leads to joy, peace, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, essential for building happy homes, maintaining peace, and expressing kindness and goodness in our daily lives.
The Lust of the Eye
By John Henry Jowett0GEN 13:10GEN 13:14PSA 37:4PRO 16:7MAT 6:33John Henry Jowett contrasts the choices of Lot and Abram in Genesis 13:10-18, highlighting Lot's worldly perspective focused on material gain and self-interest, leading him to overlook the sinful city of Sodom, which ultimately brought his downfall. In contrast, Abram's calm and God-centered approach prioritized peace and fellowship over personal gain, leading him to experience God's blessings and companionship along the unselfish path.
The Proper Aim of a Christian's Life
By James Smith0PRO 16:7MAT 5:161CO 10:312CO 5:9EPH 5:10COL 1:10COL 3:231TH 4:1HEB 13:161JN 3:22James Smith preaches on the importance of aiming to please God in every aspect of our lives, emphasizing that as Christians, our daily goal should be to seek God's approval in all that we think, say, and do. He highlights the need for believers to constantly ask themselves if their actions align with pleasing God, reminding them of the significance of glorifying God in all areas of life. Smith urges listeners to prioritize pleasing God above all else, emphasizing that God's approval should be the primary focus in decision-making, relationships, and daily activities.
Let the Peace of Christ Be Your Referee
By Zac Poonen0Peace of ChristConscience and ObediencePRO 16:7ISA 26:3MAT 5:23JHN 14:27ROM 14:17EPH 4:3PHP 4:7COL 3:15JAS 3:181PE 3:11Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of allowing the peace of Christ to act as a referee in our hearts, guiding us when we stray from God's will. He illustrates this with a football analogy, explaining that just as a referee signals fouls, our conscience alerts us when we have done wrong, requiring us to make amends before moving forward. Poonen stresses that if we ignore this inner referee, our actions, no matter how good, will not be counted until we set things right. He encourages believers to recognize agitation as a sign that the peace of Christ has been disrupted and to take immediate steps to restore that peace. Ultimately, he calls for obedience to this inner peace to ensure we remain aligned with God's will.
Enemies at Peace
By C.H. Spurgeon0Trusting God in AdversityDivine PeaceGEN 32:1PRO 16:7C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the profound truth that when a person's ways align with God's will, even their enemies can be made to live in peace with them. He acknowledges that striving to please the Lord may invite opposition, yet reassures that God can turn the hearts of adversaries, as seen in the stories of Laban and Esau. Spurgeon highlights the transformative power of God, who can convert enemies into allies, exemplified by Saul of Tarsus. He encourages believers to focus on pleasing God, trusting that He will manage their conflicts and adversities. Ultimately, Spurgeon calls for faith and holiness, which delight the Lord and bring peace even in the face of death.
Pleasing God
By James Smith0PSA 147:11PRO 16:7ROM 8:82CO 5:9EPH 5:10PHP 2:13COL 1:101TH 4:1HEB 10:22HEB 13:16James Smith preaches on the concept of pleasing God, emphasizing that while sinners cannot please God, believers in Christ who have received His grace and salvation can indeed bring delight to God by living a sanctified life and seeking to honor Him in all they do. The sermon highlights that God takes pleasure in the prayers, praises, and consistent walking of His people, as well as in their obedience to His commands and participation in sacraments like baptism and the Lord's Supper. Pleasing God should be the ultimate aim of every Christian, as it leads to personal satisfaction and harmony within the body of Christ.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
7 If Jahve has pleasure in the ways of a man, He reconciles even his enemies to him - properly (for השׁלים is here the causative of the transitive, Jos 10:1): He brings it about that they conclude peace with him. If God has pleasure in the ways of a man, i.e., in the designs which he prosecutes, and in the means which he employs, he shows, by the great consequences which flow from his endeavours, that, even as his enemies also acknowledge, God is with him (e.g., Gen 26:27.), so that they, vanquished in heart (e.g., Sa2 19:9.), abandon their hostile position, and become his friends. For if it is manifest that God makes Himself known, bestowing blessings on a man, there lies in this a power of conviction which disarms his most bitter opponents, excepting only those who have in selfishness hardened themselves.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Persecutions, of course, excepted.
John Gill Bible Commentary
When a man's ways please the Lord,.... As they do when a man walks according to the rule of his word; when he walks as he has Christ for an example; when he walks after the Spirit, and not after the flesh; when he walks by faith, and does all he does in faith; without which it is impossible to please God, Heb 11:6; and when all his ways and actions are directed to the glory of God; he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him; as Abimelech with Isaac, Esau with Jacob; and the enemies of the church and people of God with then, in the latter day, Rev 3:9.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Note, 1. God can turn foes into friends when he pleases. He that has all hearts in his hand has access to men's spirits and power over them, working insensibly, but irresistibly upon them, can make a man's enemies to be at peace with him, can change their minds, or force them into a feigned submission. He can slay all enemies, and bring those together that were at the greatest distance from each other. 2. He will do it for us when we please him. If we make it our care to be reconciled to God, and to keep ourselves in his love, he will incline those that have been envious towards us, and vexatious to us, to entertain a good opinion of us and to become our friends. God made Esau to be at peace with Jacob, Abimelech with Isaac, and David's enemies to court his favour and desire a league with Israel. The image of God appearing upon the righteous, and his particular lovingkindness to them, are enough to recommend them to the respect of all, even of those that have been most prejudiced against them.