EGW WritingsProverbs 16

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 21, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 21, 1894, par. 9

O, how can God bear with the misdeeds of those who have had great light and advantages, and yet follow the course of their own choosing, to their eternal harm? Solomon, who had solemnly charged the people at the dedication of the temple, “Let your heart be perfect with the Lord your God” [1 Kings 8:61], chose his own way, and in his own heart separated from God. The mind that was once given to God and inspired of God to write the most precious words of wisdom (the book of Proverbs)—truths which are immortalized—that noble mind, through evil associations and yielding to temptations, became inefficient, weak in moral power, and Solomon dishonored himself, dishonored Israel, and dishonored his God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 40, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 40, 1898, par. 15

Solomon wrote the book of Proverbs, but after a time his wisdom became mingled with chaff. When came the chaff? After a manhood of such glorious promise, a change came in Solomon’s history. He did not continue true to his purity and allegiance to God. He broke through the barriers which God had erected to preserve His people from idolatry. The Lord had singled out Israel as a nation, making them the depositaries of sacred truth, to be given to the world. But Solomon cherished pride of political powers. He encouraged alliances with pagan kingdoms. He procured the silver of Tarshish and the gold of Ophir, but it was at the expense of destroying sacred trusts. Evil communications corrupted good manners. One false movement led to an acquaintance with idolaters. He formed marriage alliances with the daughters of pagan worshipers, and his wives led him away from God. His separation from God through communication with idolaters ruined him.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]

MR No. 875—Appeal for Spiritual Ministers

11MR 102.1

[Ephesians 2:1-10; 6:10-13, quoted.] God is represented as weighing the characters, actions, and motives of men. Christ said to Nicodemus, “Ye must be born again” (John 3:7). He is speaking the same words to those who know not the spirit that moves them to action. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Hannah, the mother of Samuel, said, “The Lord is a God of knowledge, and by Him actions are weighed” (1 Samuel 2:3). David says, “Men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie; to be laid in the balance, they are altogether lighter than vanity” (Psalm 62:9). Isaiah declares, “Thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just” (Isaiah 26:7). And Solomon writes, “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits” (Proverbs 16:2).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 320, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 320, 1905, par. 32

How much precious light is contained in the Word for our admonition and instruction! The Lord Jesus must in no case be dishonored by our course of action. Individually we are to be weighed in the balances of the sanctuary. To every soul I would say, What if you are found wanting? Too, the motives of men and women are measured by the Lord. Said Hannah, “The Lord is a God of judgment, and by Him actions are weighed.” [1 Samuel 2:3.] Said Isaiah, “Thou most upright dost weigh the path of the just.” [Isaiah 26:7.] Solomon traces the words, “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes, but the Lord weigheth the spirit.” [Proverbs 16:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 23, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 23, 1906, par. 1

The Lord is a God of knowledge. In His Word, He is represented as weighing men, their development of character, and all their motives, whether they be good or evil. Hannah, the mother of Samuel, the child granted her by God in answer to her earnest entreaty, said, “The Lord is a God of knowledge, and by Him actions are weighed.” [1 Samuel 2:3.] David declared, “Men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie; to be laid in the balance, they are altogether lighter than vanity.” [Psalm 62:9.] Isaiah says, “Thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just.” [Isaiah 26:7.] Solomon writes, “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits.” [Proverbs 16:2.] It is for the eternal interest of everyone to search his own heart and to improve every God-given faculty.

The Upward Look

Christ Is Our Only Hope, February 8

UL 53.2

The Lord is a God of knowledge. In His Word, He is represented as weighing men, their development of character, and all their motives, whether they be good or evil. Hannah, the mother of Samuel, the child granted her by God in answer to her earnest entreaty, said, “The Lord is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed” (1 Samuel 2:3). David declared, “Men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie: to be laid in the balance, they are altogether lighter than vanity” (Psalm 62:9). Isaiah says, “Thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just” (Isaiah 26:7). Solomon writes, “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits” (Proverbs 16:2). It is for the eternal interest of everyone to search his own heart and to improve every God-given faculty.

The Upward Look

God Is in Every Place, July 12

UL 207.5

Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Hannah, the mother of Samuel, said, “The Lord is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed” (1 Samuel 2:3). David says, “Men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie: to be laid in the balance, they are altogether lighter than vanity” (Psalm 62:9). Isaiah declares, “Thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just” (Isaiah 26:7). And Solomon writes, “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirit” (Proverbs 16:2).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 65, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 65, 1886, par. 43

God weighs motives, purposes, character. All men are weighed in the balances of the sanctuary, and God would have all realize this fact. Hannah said, “The Lord is a God of knowledge, and by Him actions are weighed.” 1 Samuel 2:3. David hath said, “Men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie: to be laid in the balance, they are altogether lighter than vanity.” Psalm 62:9. Isaiah says: “Thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just.” Isaiah 26:2. “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits.” Proverbs 16:2.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 41, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 41, 1898, par. 16

When suffering under reproach, Hannah cried to the Lord, and the Lord heard her prayer, and gave her a son. Then she declared the glory of the Lord, saying, “The Lord is a God of knowledge, and by Him actions are weighed.” [1 Samuel 2:3.] Again, Isaiah says, “Thou most upright do weigh the path of the just.” [Isaiah 26:7.] Solomon declares, “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes, but the Lord weigheth the spirit.” [Proverbs 16:2.] And David writes, “Men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie: to be weighed in the balances they are altogether lighter than vanity.” [Psalm 62:9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 201, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 201, 1899, par. 15

God is represented as weighing the characters, actions, and motives of men. Christ said to Nicodemus, “Ye must be born again.” [John 3:7.] He is speaking the same words to those who know not the spirit that moves them to action. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Hannah, the mother of Samuel, said, “The Lord is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.” [1 Samuel 2:3.] David says, “Men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie; to be laid in the balance, they are altogether vanity.” [Psalm 62:9.] Isaiah declares, “Thou most upright, dost weigh the path of the Just.” [Isaiah 26:7.] And Solomon writes, “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirit.” [Proverbs 16:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 87, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 87, 1901, par. 4

God will not commit His glory to a man whose soul-temple is defiled, and who closes his eyes to his own danger and the danger of others. Such a man, by his plausible words, deceives young girls, and though no actual crime may be committed, they are wronged. Though married, he pays attentions to young girls who are foolish enough to accept them, leading them to think that the words he speaks are wisdom and truth. “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits.” [Proverbs 16:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 52, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 52, 1902, par. 5

“By their fruits ye shall know them.” [Matthew 7:20.] “Thou most upright dost weigh the path of the just.” [Isaiah 26:7.] “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits.” [Proverbs 16:2.] There is not a motive in the depths of the heart, not a secret in the recesses of the soul, that He does not read.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 99, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 99, 1902, par. 8

Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Hannah, the mother of Samuel, said, “The Lord is a God of knowledge, and by Him actions are weighed.” [1 Samuel 2:3.] David says, “Men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie; to be laid in the balance, they are altogether vanity.” [Psalm 62:9.] Isaiah declares, “Thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just.” [Isaiah 26:7.] And Solomon writes, “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirit.” [Proverbs 16:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 69, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 69, 1901, par. 1

Many temptations will come to the workers in our sanitariums, and especially to the physicians. Our sanitariums are established to break down the prejudice which exists in the world against the truth for this time. How important, then, that those connected with such an institution be free from reproach in any line. How important that the physicians refrain from paying special attention to the young lady nurses. How important that loose principles be not allowed to prevail. The world will be quick to see the least departure from the high standard claimed for the medical missionary work. One act of misdoing will undo for years the good that might have been accomplished if the high standard of Christianity had been maintained. “How much better it is to get wisdom than gold.” [Proverbs 16:16.]

16LtMs, Lt 69, 1901, par. 14

“All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits. Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established. ... Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished. By mercy and truth iniquity is purged, and by the fear of the Lord men depart from iniquity. When a man’s ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.” [Proverbs 16:2, 3, 5-7.] “Do good, O Lord, unto those that be good, and to them that are upright in heart. As for such as turn aside to their crooked ways, the Lord shall lead them forth with the workers of iniquity; but peace shall be upon Israel.” [Psalm 125:4, 5.]

That I May Know Him

The Test of Our Actions, October 11

TMK 290.1

Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established. Proverbs 16:3.

The Upward Look

Educate Yourself to Believe, December 28

UL 376.1

Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established. Proverbs 16:3.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 57, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 57, 1897, par. 5

“Commit thy ways unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.” [Proverbs 16:3.] Even our thoughts are to be brought into captivity to Jesus Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 158, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 158, 1902, par. 39

“Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.” [Proverbs 16:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 406, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 406, 1906, par. 1

“Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.” [Proverbs 16:3.] Let us feel thankful that we have the privilege of committing our works to God. We are to remember that we are not pieces of inanimate mechanism, but intelligent beings, able to choose the right and refuse the wrong, with a clear conscience and a pure purpose.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 92, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 92, 1900, par. 36

God calls for a decided change in the program. Christ has prayed for the unity of His people. In their unity is their strength. God desires all to be laborers together with Him. The Saviour says, “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] Man cannot, by any efforts he may make, thwart the purpose of God. Let there be a consideration of these things. Let men come to their senses. Let them not work at cross-purposes with God. “A man’s heart deviseth his way, but the Lord directeth his steps.” [Proverbs 16:9.] There are many devisings in a man’s heart, nevertheless the counsel of God, that shall stand.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 193, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 193, 1901, par. 27

By no effort man may make can he thwart the purpose of God. “A man’s heart deviseth his way; but the Lord directeth his steps.” “There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand.” [Proverbs 16:9; 19:21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 11, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 11, 1903, par. 22

God must show us every step of the way. Every hour we must have the new impulses of His Spirit. Love for Him should be the mainspring of our actions. Every hour has its duties and every movement its cares. Let a controlling power from above check the hasty speech. Let your heart be filled with the kindest, most tender compassion. Never allow yourself to be ruled by impulse. Never get out of patience. New scenes are opening before us, and we need to hear a voice from heaven, directing us to the right or to the left, saying, “This is the way; walk ye in it.” [Isaiah 30:21.] God’s will, not ours, is to control. “A man’s heart deviseth his way; but the Lord directeth his steps.” [Proverbs 16:9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 165, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 165, 1907, par. 3

Man cannot by any human effort thwart the purposes of God. “A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.” “There are many devices in a man’s heart, nevertheless the counsel of the heart that shall stand.” [Proverbs 16:9; 19:21.] “All power is given unto Me .... Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.] Will we each consider this matter and be wise for ourselves? We receive the grace of God to bestow ... [pages 3-6 of the manuscript are missing].

Education

Chapter 19—History and Prophecy

Ed 175.1

To understand these things,—to understand that “righteousness exalteth a nation;” that “the throne is established by righteousness” and “upholden by mercy” (Proverbs 14:34; 16:12; Proverbs 20:28); to recognize the outworking of these principles in the manifestation of His power who “removeth kings, and setteth up kings” (Daniel 2:21),—this is to understand the philosophy of history.

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 40—Nebuchadnezzar’s Dream

PK 502.2

To understand these things,—to understand that “righteousness exalteth a nation;” that “the throne is established by righteousness,” and “upholden by mercy;” to recognize the outworking of these principles in the manifestation of His power who “removeth kings, and setteth up kings,”—this is to understand the philosophy of history. Proverbs 14:34; 16:12; 20:28; Daniel 2:21.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 15—The Bible and the French Revolution

GC 277.3

Little did the rulers of the land foresee the results of that fateful policy. The teaching of the Bible would have implanted in the minds and hearts of the people those principles of justice, temperance, truth, equity, and benevolence which are the very cornerstone of a nation’s prosperity. “Righteousness exalteth a nation.” Thereby “the throne is established.” Proverbs 14:34; 16:12. “The work of righteousness shall be peace;” and the effect, “quietness and assurance forever.” Isaiah 32:17. He who obeys the divine law will most truly respect and obey the laws of his country. He who fears God will honor the king in the exercise of all just and legitimate authority. But unhappy France prohibited the Bible and banned its disciples. Century after century, men of principle and integrity, men of intellectual acuteness and moral strength, who had the courage to avow their convictions and the faith to suffer for the truth—for centuries these men toiled as slaves in the galleys, perished at the stake, or rotted in dungeon cells. Thousands upon thousands found safety in flight; and this continued for two hundred and fifty years after the opening of the Reformation.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 15—The Bible and the French Revolution

GC88 277.3

Little did the rulers of the land foresee the results of that fateful policy. The teaching of the Bible would have implanted in the minds and hearts of the people those principles of justice, temperance, truth, equity, and benevolence which are the very corner-stone of a nation’s prosperity. “Righteousness exalteth a nation.” Thereby “the throne is established.” [Proverbs 14:34; 16:12.] “The work of righteousness shall be peace;” and the effect, “quietness and assurance forever.” [Isaiah 32:17.] He who obeys the divine law will most truly respect and obey the laws of his country. He who fears God will honor the king in the exercise of all just and legitimate authority. But unhappy France prohibited the Bible, and banned its disciples. Century after century, men of principle and integrity, men of intellectual acuteness and moral strength, who had the courage to avow their convictions, and the faith to suffer for the truth,—for centuries these men toiled as slaves in the galleys, perished at the stake, or rotted in dungeon cells. Thousands upon thousands found safety in flight; and this continued for two hundred and fifty years after the opening of the Reformation.

From Here to Forever

The Goddess of Reason

HF 173.3

The teaching of the Bible would have implanted in the hearts of the people principles of justice, temperance, and truth, which are the cornerstone of a nation’s prosperity. “Righteousness exalteth a nation.” Thereby “the throne is established.” Proverbs 14:34; 16:12. See Isaiah 32:17. He who obeys the divine law will most truly respect and obey the laws of the country. France prohibited the Bible. Century after century men of integrity, of intellectual and moral strength, who had the faith to suffer for truth, toiled as slaves in the galleys, perished at the stake, or rotted in dungeon cells. Thousands found safety in flight for 250 years after the opening of the Reformation.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 224, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, par. 15

If we will individually seek by faith for the wisdom that cometh from above, we shall have clear and noble conceptions of our duty. Solomon declares: “How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver! The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul. Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud. He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the Lord happy is he. The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning. Understanding is a wellspring of life to him that hath it; but the instruction of fools is folly. The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips. Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones. ... The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness. He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 16:16-24, 31, 32.]

The Faith I Live By

Pride Comes Before a Fall, March 3

FLB 68.1

Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 11b, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 11b, 1886, par. 4

There are many ways in which God can punish, and punishment will surely follow whenever pride is indulged. “Pride goeth before destruction.” [Proverbs 16:18.] Let a man be lifted up by a sense of his own ability, and, trusting in his human strength, he will surely be overcome by temptation. God will bring him down. He will teach him his utter weakness, that he may feel his need of divine aid. Let any one glory in his wisdom or his talents, or in anything but Christ and Him crucified, and he will learn that the Lord alone is to be exalted. My heart is very sad when I think of the state of things in _____. I know that the church is not in a right condition. I know that your plans and ideas have fashioned some of its members, not to their spiritual advantage, but to their injury; and the end is not yet. I was in my dream led into the church, into the college, and into your house. I saw the working of things at present, and what it would be in the future, and it was far from being according to God’s arrangement. In regard to your own family, I saw that dangers threaten your children. They are liable to receive a wrong stamp of character, a mold that will not be easily effaced—vanity, pride, love of dress, self-will, rather than the meek and quiet spirit which is in the sight of God of great price. May the Lord open your eyes to see and your heart to feel the necessity of an entire change.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 11a, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 11a, 1886, par. 5

There are many ways in which God can punish, and punishment will surely follow wherever pride is indulged. “Pride goeth before destruction.” [Proverbs 16:18.] Let a man be lifted up by a sense of his own ability, and trust in his human strength, and he will surely be overcome by temptation. God will bring him down. He will teach him his utter weakness, that he may feel his need of divine aid. Let any one glory in his wisdom or his talents, or in anything but Christ and Him crucified, and he will learn that the Lord alone is to be exalted.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 233, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 233, 1902, par. 29

All pride in human agencies is a direct affront to God. All exaltation of self is displeasing to God. Men claim to themselves the honor of wisdom which honor belongs wholly to God and came from God. Man originates nothing. God will abase all who rob Him of His glory. “Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Better is it to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud. ... The wise ... lips increaseth learning.” “The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips. Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.” [Proverbs 16:18, 19, 21, 23, 24.] “The Lord He is God.” [Deuteronomy 4:35.]

Radiant Religion

He Who Trusts God, January 7

RRe 9.1

He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he. Proverbs 16:20.

Radiant Religion

Bring Help and Encouragement, September 30

RRe 275.3

“A wise man is esteemed for being pleasant; his friendly words add to his influence.” “Apt answers are a joy to men; a word in season, what a help it is!” Proverbs 16:21; 15:23, Moffatt.

Education

Chapter 21—Study of Physiology

Ed 197.4

“Let thine heart keep My commandments,” God says; “for length of days, and years of life, and peace, shall they add to thee.” “They are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.” “Pleasant words” the Scriptures declare to be not only “sweet to the soul,” but “health to the bones.” Proverbs 3:1, 2, margin; 4:22; 16:24.

My Life Today

Kind Acts and Pleasant Words Promote Health, May 28

ML 152.1

Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones. Proverbs 16:24.

Reflecting Christ

Each Youth Must Decide for Himself, May 12

RC 146.6

“Let thine heart keep my commandments,” God says; “for length of days, and years of life, and peace, shall they add to thee.” “They are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.” “Pleasant words,” the Scriptures declare to be not only “sweet to the soul,” but “health to the bones” (Proverbs 3:1, 2, margin; 4:22; 16:24).

Reflecting Christ

Cheerfulness in the Home Promotes Happiness, June 26

RC 191.1

Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones. Proverbs 16:24.

Radiant Religion

Are Sweet to Mind and Health to Body, September 29

RRe 274.1

Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones. Proverbs 16:24.

Christ Triumphant

Our Choices Determine Our Destiny, January 7

CTr 13.1

Sometimes there is a way that seems to be right, but in the end it is the way to death. Proverbs 16:25, NRSV.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 37—The Scriptures a Safeguard

GC 597.3

“There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Proverbs 16:25. Ignorance is no excuse for error or sin, when there is every opportunity to know the will of God. A man is traveling and comes to a place where there are several roads and a guideboard indicating where each one leads. If he disregards the guideboard, and takes whichever road seems to him to be right, he may be ever so sincere, but will in all probability find himself on the wrong road.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 37—The Scriptures a Safeguard

GC88 597.3

“There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” [Proverbs 16:25.] Ignorance is no excuse for error or sin, when there is every opportunity to know the will of God. A man is travelling, and comes to a place where there are several roads, and a guide-board indicating where each one leads. If he disregards the guide-board, and takes whichever road seems to him to be right, he may be ever so sincere, but will in all probability find himself on the wrong road.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 74, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 74, 1900, par. 17

The Word of Inspiration comes to every one of us, “Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.” “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof is the way of death.” [Proverbs 4:26; 16:25.]

Child Guidance

Chapter 26—Courtesy and Reserve

CG 144.1

Respect for Weary Feet Nearing Their Rest—And God has especially enjoined tender respect toward the aged. He says, “The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.” Proverbs 16:31. It tells of battles fought and victories gained, of burdens borne and temptations resisted. It tells of weary feet nearing their rest, of places soon to be vacant. Help the children to think of this, and they will smooth the path of the aged by their courtesy and respect, and will bring grace and beauty into their young lives as they heed the command to “rise up before the hoary head, and honor the face of the old man.” Leviticus 19:32.6Education, 244.

Counsels for the Church

Teach Respect and Courtesy

CCh 201.3

God has especially enjoined tender respect toward the aged. He says, “The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.” Proverbs 16:31. It tells of battles fought, and victories gained; of burdens borne, and temptations resisted. It tells of weary feet nearing their rest, of places soon to be vacant. Help the children to think of this, and they will smooth the path of the aged by their courtesy and respect, and will bring grace and beauty into their young lives as they heed the command to “rise up before the hoary head, and honor the face of the old man.” Leviticus 19:32.316Education, 244

Education

Chapter 27—Deportment

Ed 244.4

And God has especially enjoined tender respect toward the aged. He says, “The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.” Proverbs 16:31. It tells of battles fought, and victories gained; of burdens borne, and temptations resisted. It tells of weary feet nearing their rest, of places soon to be vacant. Help the children to think of this, and they will smooth the path of the aged by their courtesy and respect, and will bring grace and beauty into their young lives as they heed the command to “rise up before the hoary head, and honor the face of the old man.” Leviticus 19:32.

The Retirement Years

Laborers Together With God

RY 44.3

God has especially enjoined tender respect toward the aged. He says, “The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness (Proverbs 16:31). It tells of battles fought, and victories gained; of burdens borne, and temptations resisted. It tells of weary feet nearing their rest, of places soon to be vacant. Help the children to think of this, and they will smooth the path of the aged by their courtesy and respect, and will bring grace and beauty into their young lives as they heed the command to “rise up before the hoary head, and honor the face of the old man” (Leviticus 19:32).—Education, 244.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 38, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 38, 1893, par. 2

I cannot hold my peace and see Brother Everson connecting himself with you, when I know that the result will be that he will fall into a snare. Listen to the words of Solomon, “Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.” [Proverbs 22:24, 25.] When circumstances conspire in a way that displeases you, you manifest a cruel, unjust spirit, and your words fall like desolating hail. You stir up strife. You do not even control your spirit when the wicked are before you. Can the Lord permit such uncontrollable elements to enter the portals of the blest? No! No! “He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down and hath no walls.” “The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness. He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty: and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 25:28; 16:31, 32.]

Counsels on Health

Patience and Sympathy

CH 350.2

Physicians should understand that a soft answer turneth away wrath. Policy must be used in an institution where the sick are treated, in order to successfully control diseased minds and benefit the sick. If physicians can remain calm amid a tempest of inconsiderate, passionate words, if they can rule their own spirits when provoked and abused, they are indeed conquerors. “He that ruleth his spirit” is better “than he that taketh a city.” Proverbs 16:32. To subdue self and bring the passions under the control of the will is the greatest conquest that men and women can achieve.—Testimonies for the Church 3:182, 183 (1872).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 5, 1879

3LtMs, Lt 5, 1879, par. 16

The work is before you, to be an overcomer. You, my brother, have in your short lifetime seen and known enough of the evils of an excited temper to lead you to weigh with care the words you utter. One harsh word calls forth another, just as fire kindles fire, until what was at first a spark bursts out into an uncontrollable flame. You need patience, meekness, and self-control. These are lessons of the highest consequence, which you are inexcusable in not learning. While you should be resolute and unflinching, firm as a rock to principle, you should ever manifest forbearance and love. Rudeness is not essential to energy; neither is a dictatorial spirit. The government of your temper is your own work. In whatever situation you may be placed, you will meet with much that will conflict with your feelings and put your disposition to a severe test. But nothing can injure you if you keep your own spirit pure and true and elevated. The wise King Solomon placed the control of self higher than the victories gained by the most successful heroes. There is a moral dignity and power in being calm in the midst of trouble, patient under provocation. “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 16:32.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 13, 1884

4LtMs, Ms 13, 1884, par. 20

Solomon places the control of one’s self above the exploits of the bravest and most successful heroes. There is a moral grandeur in being patient under trials and provocations. “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” Proverbs 16:32. It requires discipline and firmness of purpose not to give expression to passion but at all times to take care that no words shall escape the lips that will dishonor the Christian character. Self-control will be a valuable acquisition to the graces of the Spirit, and parents should teach their children, by precept and example, this precious lesson of patience and self control.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 1, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 1, 1893, par. 17

“He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 16:32.] Evil spirits are continually on your track to lead you into difficulties through your love for <exciting pleasure and amusements> and your indulgence of appetite. The slumbering inherited passions are irritated and awakened into activity. Every bad passion and subtle temptation is meeting you at every step. You may stand forth as conqueror over yourself, conqueror over your inclinations, conqueror over “principalities and powers and the rulers of the darkness of this world and spiritual wickedness in high places.” [Ephesians 6:12.] For this spiritual warfare human power, is as nothing.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 126, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 126, 1898, par. 5

The world will never see these conquests, and if it could, it would only despise the conquerors. But in heaven’s record they are registered as overcomers. There is One who witnesses every secret combat and every silent victory, and He says, “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 16:32.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 38, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 38, 1903, par. 11

Reverence God and His purchased possession. Be careful of your manners, because you are Christ’s representative. Guard your words carefully, and labor earnestly for the conviction and conversion of sinners. Keep the heart uplifted to God in prayer. When unkind, untrue words are spoken to you, do not lose control of yourself. Remember that “a soft answer turneth away wrath,” and that “he that rules his spirit” is greater “than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 15:1; 16:32.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 46, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 46, 1903, par. 6

When a certain work is committed to a number of people, each should act his part in such a way that light will shine out amidst the moral darkness. Let each one guard himself strictly, standing in his lot and place, to do his appointed work. Let no hasty, condemnatory words be spoken in the Lord’s institutions. Let those for whom Christ has died respect and help one another, treating all with kindness and patience. This world is a school, in which we are to be prepared to enter the higher school in the courts above. If one forgets his place, and speak harshly to a fellow worker, let him remember that he has wounded Christ in the person of one of His children. Let not the one who has been hurt retaliate. Let him be so kind and considerate that the one who has spoken discourteously will feel ashamed of himself. “Greater is he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 16:32.] He has conquered self—the strongest foe with which man has to deal.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 296, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 296, 1907, par. 12

My brother, take courage; the Lord will strengthen you for your work if you will put your dependence in Him. And not to you only, but to every worker in every sanitarium, in every school, in every printing office, in every branch of the work. Let us ever bear in mind that “he that ruleth his spirit is greater than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 16:32.]

God’s Amazing Grace

Self-Mastery, September 5

AG 256.1

He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. Proverbs 16:32.

In Heavenly Places

Developing Self-control, August 12

HP 231.1

He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. Proverbs 16:32.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]

MR No. 1411—The Ladder to Heaven

19MR 343.3

Solomon places the control of one’s self above the exploits of the bravest and most successful heroes. There is a moral grandeur in being patient under trials and provocations. “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city” (Proverbs 16:32). It requires discipline and firmness of purpose not to give expression to passion but at all times to take care that words shall escape the lips that will dishonor the Christian character. Self-control will be a valuable acquisition to the graces of the Spirit, and parents should teach their children, by precept and example, this precious lesson of patience and self-control.

My Life Today

Modern Heroes, March 7

ML 70.1

He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. Proverbs 16:32.

Our High Calling

How to Deal With Anger, August 17

OHC 235.1

He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. Proverbs 16:32.

Reflecting Christ

The Highest Evidence of Nobility, October 5

RC 292.1

He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. Proverbs 16:32.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 2, 1860

1LtMs, Lt 2, 1860, par. 2

Willie, you must be a good boy. You must overcome an impatient spirit. To be impatient is not to be willing to wait, to want everything you desire in a moment. You must say to yourself, I’ll wait. “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit, than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 16:32.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Ms 2, 1875

2LtMs, Ms 2, 1875, par. 19

It is at home by the fireside where parents mold the tempers of their children for good or evil. Here parents should be self-possessed and exercise perfect control over themselves, then may they undertake to control and govern others. Nothing should be done through caprice or passion. Calm and dispassionate, unmoved by revenge or uninfluenced by hatred, parents should rule well their own house, having their children in subjection with all gravity. This cuts off the idea of making children the equal of the parents. The words of Solomon are important. “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 16:32.]