Proverbs 16:19

19 Better is a meek-spirited with lowliness, than one who divides spoils with the proud.

Proverbs 16:19 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 16:19

Better [it is to be] of an humble spirit with the lowly
The followers of the meek and lowly Jesus, whose spirits are humbled under a sense of sin; have mean thoughts of themselves and their own righteousness, and submit to the righteousness of the Son of God, and wholly trust in him for salvation; and ascribe all they have and are to the free grace of God; humble themselves under the mighty hand of God; are resigned to his will, and patiently bear all afflictions without murmuring, and think better of others than themselves: these are not in so much danger of falling as the proud and haughty, and are more grateful to men, and acceptable to God; with these he vouchsafes to dwell; to these he gives more grace, and they shall inherit the earth. Wherefore it is better to be of such a spirit, and be ranked among and keep company with the meek and lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud;
the spoils of the poor with proud oppressors; or spoils gotten in war with proud and ambitious princes; or the spoils of kingdoms and states with antichrist, divided by him among his proud followers: it is better to be the followers of Christ, and have but little, than to be his, and have ever so much.

Proverbs 16:19 In-Context

17 The paths of life turn aside from evil; and the ways of righteousness are length of life. He that receives instruction shall be in prosperity; and he that regards reproofs shall be made wise. He that keeps his ways, preserves his own soul; and he that loves his life will spare his mouth.

18 Pride goes before destruction, and folly before a fall.

19 Better is a meek-spirited with lowliness, than one who divides spoils with the proud.

20 skillful in business finds good: but he that trusts in God is most blessed.

21 call the wise and understanding evil: but they that are pleasing in speech shall hear more.

Footnotes

• [a] Or, affliction.