The Way Of Righteousness

 Like much of the book of Proverbs, chapter 16 has many self-contained verses guiding us to the way of righteousness which pleases the Lord, but warns against the evils of wickedness which causes Him much displeasure. Giving delight to the Lord, holding fast to the truth, and shunning evil ways, is a theme that threads it way throughout this chapter.
 Similarly, the blessings and benefits of godly wisdom and the destructive danger of a proud heart is a subject which not only reverberates throughout the book of Proverbs, but we find it echoing through this central chapter. 
 The nature of pride, self-will, self-importance, or arrogance, must never be minimized - because pride is destructive and a haughty spirit will cause us to fall.
 May we take to heart the many words of wisdom in Proverbs that guide us into the way of righteousness, which is pleasing to the Lord, and take heed of the evils of wickedness and the destructive nature of a haughty spirit.
Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.

Our United Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the clear warnings about pride and arrogance and the terrible consequences that come when nurturing a haughty spirit. Keep us we pray, from the sin of pride or from trusting in our own importance... or from thinking that we can add to our salvation or contribute towards our sanctification through our own works. Help us to grow in grace and to walk in spirit and truth. In Jesus' name we pray, AMEN.