Welcome to all, wishing you a pleasant day! Let's pick up in Proverbs 16. For commentary on verses 1-3 and 4-8 search "Sept 16" and "Oct 16". Let's continue with Proverbs 16:9-12:

"9 A man may plot out his course in his heart, But it is Jehovah who directs his steps. 10 Inspired decision should be on the lips of a king; He must never betray justice. 11 Honest balances and scales are from Jehovah; All the weights in the bag are his doing. 12 Wicked practices are detestable to kings, For the throne is firmly established by righteousness."

Prov 16:9 When we look to Jehovah for guidance and support, He can 'direct our steps.' But notice we should still 'plot out our course in our heart,' giving Jehovah efforts to bless. In fact, without plans we may be hasty. "The plans of the diligent surely lead to success, but all who are hasty surely head for poverty." So become a planner of your day, scheduling especially your more important activities.

Prov 16:10 God's word should be familiar to kings, that they may know how to act with justice, and do so consistently.

Prov 16:11 Clearly, Jehovah cares about the laws and justice among mankind, He is interested in man's affairs. He loves honest integrity, as Paul expressed: "We trust we have an honest conscience, as we wish to conduct ourselves honestly in all things." Violations of honesty and integrity bring Jehovah's disfavor.

Prov 16:12 By seeking God's righteousness, a king may firmly establish his throne, while hating what God determines to be wicked practices. What a world we can have when kings respect God's decisions and seek to live in harmony with His standards! Such authorities exist "in their relative positions by God" (Roma 13:1-7).

Psalms 57 (Book 2, 16th psalm) opens with a heartfelt plea, "Show me favor, O God, show me favor, for I take refuge in you, and in the shadow of your wings I take refuge until the troubles pass." If we want to live God's way, He takes great interest in us. May we have such a desire to rely on God each day to endure any difficulties or challenges to our godly obedience we may face in his power or stength. As Paul said, "For all things I have the strength through the one who gives me power."

Galatians 6 For comments on Gala 6:4 regarding a competitive spirit, search "Sept 16". This time let's take note of Gala 6:1 : "Brothers, even if a man takes a false step before he is aware of it, you who have spiritual qualifications try to readjust such a man in a spirit of mildness. But keep an eye on yourself, for fear you too may be tempted."

We need to remain humble and obedient to God, willing to be readjusted when necessary. Eventually we want to have the Christian maturity that could offer corrective help to one in need, doing so with gentleness, not in anger. Paul similarly writes: "Finally, brothers, continue to rejoice, to be readjusted, to be comforted, to think in agreement, to live peaceably; and the God of love and of peace will be with you."