PROVERBS CHAPTER 16.
V. 30. He shutteth his eyes, to keep away any good influence, to devise froward things, to meditate mischief and craftiness; moving his lips, he bringeth evil to pass, the act or gesture of pressing together the lips being evidence of malice, and so he carries out his wicked intentions.
V. 31. The hoary head, the white hair of an old person, is a crown of glory, like a splendid diadem, a shining ornament, if it be found in the way of righteousness, for only then will an old person be regarded with approval by the Lord.
V. 32. He that is slow to anger, keeping himself well in hand always, controlling his temper, is better than the mighty, a champion fighter, who is always engaged in battle; and he that ruleth his spirit, holding his temper in leash, than he that taketh a city, for not quarreling and fighting upon the slightest provocation is the sign of greatness of mind, but a meekness which is able to control a person’s feelings and gains its point by its very unshakable tranquility.
V. 33. The lot is cast into the lap, apparently at random; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord, the decision rests with Him, for even those events which seem to us most fortuitous and subject only to chance are ordered and governed by God. The story of Esther, Haman, and Mordecai makes a great example.