Proverbs 19:16 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Whoever keeps the commandment keeps his life; he who despises his ways will die.

NIV: Whoever keeps commandments keeps their life, but whoever shows contempt for their ways will die.

NASB: One who keeps the commandment keeps his soul, But one who is careless of conduct will die.

CSB: The one who keeps commands preserves himself; one who disregards his ways will die.

NLT: Keep the commandments and keep your life; despising them leads to death.

KJV: He that keepeth the commandment keepeth his own soul; but he that despiseth his ways shall die.

NKJV: He who keeps the commandment keeps his soul, But he who is careless of his ways will die.

The book of Proverbs typically presents wisdom and good sense in terms of godliness (Proverbs 1:7; 3:5–8). This perspective helps keep a person from both earthly and eternal troubles (Proverbs 2:16–19; 8:34–36; 14:12). In this case, the reference is much more generic. Solomon's advice here is about the concept of following directions, overall (Proverbs 13:13). Failure to follow the instructions associated with machinery, medicines, chemicals, or tools can lead to injury or death. There is, in fact, a "right way" to use certain things and to accomplish certain tasks. A person who pays no attention to such things is at risk of disaster (Proverbs 19:8).

Solomon specifically credits God's Word with preserving life (Proverbs 10:27; 14:27). Aligning behavior with Scripture keeps a person from destructive situations. By obeying God's Word, the believer stays clear of immoral situations that drag people down spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically. He enjoys a more peaceful life. Psalm 119:163–165 reveals a link between obedience to God's Word and peace by stating: "I hate and abhor falsehood, but I love your law. Seven times a day I praise you for your righteous rules. Great peace have those who love your law; nothing can make them stumble." However, those who care nothing about obeying God's Word pursue a dangerous, destructive path.

All too often, the consequences of ignorance and hard-headedness are dire. In a spiritual setting, these consequences can be eternal. Proverbs 29:1 provides a strong warning: "He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing."

Proverbs 19:8–21 continues Solomon's observations about wisdom and foolishness, a king's wrath, household turmoil, and human plans as compared to divine sovereignty. A theme of these proverbs is the danger of ignoring godly wisdom, while placing too much reliance on one's own ability. A wise person is prudent, diligent, and honest. At the same time, wisdom means realizing that not all plans work out.

Several themes are associated with these statements. Among them are the idea that personal integrity is worth much more than earthly wealth or success. Solomon discusses the unfortunate habit of favoring the rich and dismissing the poor, while commending those who care for the unfortunate. Many references are made to the consequences of foolish behavior, including the shame and punishment such things can bring.

Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.