What is the meaning of Proverbs 15:16? Better a little - The first word “Better” immediately sets up a comparison. Scripture often measures value not by quantity but by righteousness (Proverbs 16:8). - “A little” points to modest means—just enough for daily needs. Psalm 37:16 reminds us, “Better is the little that the righteous man has than the abundance of many wicked.” - Jesus reinforces this priority in Matthew 6:33, urging us to seek God’s kingdom first and trust Him for material provision. - Paul echoes it: “Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6). - Key thought: The Lord defines sufficiency; peace and contentment accompany His definition, not the world’s. With the fear of the LORD - “Fear” here means reverent awe, loyalty, and obedience. Proverbs 1:7 says, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.” - Reverence brings blessing: “The fear of the LORD leads to life, that one may sleep satisfied, untouched by evil” (Proverbs 19:23). - Those who fear Him enjoy an unshakable security that worldly riches cannot match (Proverbs 14:26). - In practical terms: revering God shapes priorities, guides spending, curbs greed, and anchors joy. Than great treasure - “Great treasure” suggests overflowing abundance—more than one could ever use. Proverbs 11:28 warns, “He who trusts in his riches will fall.” - Wealth itself is not condemned, but misplaced trust is (1 Timothy 6:17). Jesus cautions, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:19-20). - Riches promise independence, comfort, and status, yet cannot secure the soul or guarantee peace (Luke 12:15). With turmoil - “Turmoil” speaks of inner agitation and relational strife. Proverbs 17:1 parallels the idea: “Better a dry morsel with quietness than a house full of feasting with strife.” - Riches often introduce competing desires, envy, and anxiety (James 4:1-2). - True blessing, by contrast, “adds no sorrow” (Proverbs 10:22). - When possessions rule the heart, sleepless nights, family conflict, and spiritual barrenness follow. summary Proverbs 15:16 declares that a modest life wrapped in reverent obedience to God surpasses any amount of wealth that brings inner unrest. The verse redirects our value system: prioritize relationship with the LORD, embrace contentment, and measure success by peace and righteousness rather than by overflowing barns. |
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