A man’s heart plans his course
This phrase highlights the human tendency to make plans and set goals based on personal desires and understanding. In biblical context, the heart often represents the center of one's thoughts, emotions, and will. The Bible frequently acknowledges human agency and the ability to make choices, as seen in passages like Joshua 24:15, where the Israelites are urged to choose whom they will serve. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed significant value on wisdom and planning, as seen in the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, including Proverbs itself. However, this phrase also implies the limitations of human understanding, as seen in Jeremiah 17:9, which describes the heart as deceitful.

but the LORD determines his steps
This part of the verse emphasizes God's sovereignty and ultimate control over human affairs. The use of "LORD" refers to Yahweh, the covenant name of God, indicating a personal and relational aspect of His guidance. Throughout Scripture, God's providence is a recurring theme, as seen in Genesis 50:20, where Joseph acknowledges God's hand in his life's events. Theologically, this reflects the belief in divine providence, where God orchestrates events according to His will and purpose. This concept is also echoed in the New Testament, such as in Romans 8:28, which assures believers that God works all things for good. The phrase suggests a balance between human responsibility and divine guidance, encouraging trust in God's plan, as seen in the life of Jesus Christ, who submitted to the Father's will in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:39).

1. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His writings often explore themes of wisdom, understanding, and the fear of the Lord.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing His sovereignty and active role in guiding the lives of His people.

3. The Heart
In Hebrew thought, the heart ("lev") is the center of human thought, emotion, and will, not just the seat of emotions as often thought in modern contexts.

4. Plans
The Hebrew word for plans ("chashav") implies devising or calculating a course of action, reflecting human intention and foresight.

5. Steps
The term steps ("tsa'ad") refers to the actual movements or actions taken, which are ultimately directed by God.Human Planning vs. Divine Sovereignty
While it is wise to plan and prepare, we must recognize that God's sovereignty ultimately guides our lives. Our plans should be made with humility and openness to God's direction.

Trust in God's Guidance
Trusting in the Lord's guidance means surrendering our own understanding and desires, acknowledging that His ways are higher than ours.

The Role of Prayer in Planning
Prayer should be an integral part of our planning process, seeking God's wisdom and direction in all our decisions.

Living with Flexibility and Faith
Being flexible in our plans allows us to adapt to God's leading, demonstrating faith in His perfect will and timing.

Acknowledging God's Control in Our Lives
Recognizing God's control brings peace and assurance, knowing that He works all things for the good of those who love Him.(9) A man's heart deviseth his way . . .--"Man proposeth, God disposeth." (See below on Proverbs 20:24.)

Verse 9. - A man's heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps (ver. 1). "Man proposes, God disposes" or, as the Germans say, "Der Mensch denkt, Gott lenkt" (comp. Proverbs 20:24). The word rendered "deviseth" implies, by its spectra, intensity of thought and care. Man meditates and prepares his plans with the utmost solicitude, but it rests with God whether he shall carry them to completion or not, and whether, if they are to be accomplished, it be done with ease or with painful labour (comp. Genesis 24:12, etc.). We all remember Shakespeare's words in 'Hamlet' -

"There's a divinity that shapes our ends,
Rough-hew them how we will." Septuagint, "Let the heart of man consider what is just, that his steps may be by God directed might" (comp. Jeremiah 10:23).

Parallel Commentaries ...

A man’s
אָ֭דָם (’ā·ḏām)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 120: Ruddy, a human being

heart
לֵ֣ב (lêḇ)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3820: The heart, the feelings, the will, the intellect, centre

plans
יְחַשֵּׁ֣ב (yə·ḥaš·šêḇ)
Verb - Piel - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 2803: To think, account

his course,
דַּרְכּ֑וֹ (dar·kōw)
Noun - common singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 1870: A road, a course of life, mode of action

but the LORD
וַֽ֝יהוָ֗ה (Yah·weh)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

determines
יָכִ֥ין (yā·ḵîn)
Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 3559: To be erect

his steps.
צַעֲדֽוֹ׃ (ṣa·‘ă·ḏōw)
Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 6806: A pace, regular step


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 16:9 A man's heart plans his course (Prov. Pro Pr)