Proverbs 16:7
When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Original Language Analysis
בִּרְצ֣וֹת
please
H7521
בִּרְצ֣וֹת
please
Strong's:
H7521
Word #:
1 of 8
to be pleased with; specifically, to satisfy a debt
יְ֭הוָה
the LORD
H3068
יְ֭הוָה
the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 8
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
דַּרְכֵי
ways
H1870
דַּרְכֵי
ways
Strong's:
H1870
Word #:
3 of 8
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
אִ֑ישׁ
When a man's
H376
אִ֑ישׁ
When a man's
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
4 of 8
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
גַּם
H1571
גַּם
Strong's:
H1571
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and
Cross References
Romans 8:31What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?1 John 3:22And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.Colossians 1:10That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;2 Chronicles 17:10And the fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that were round about Judah, so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat.Jeremiah 15:11The LORD said, Verily it shall be well with thy remnant; verily I will cause the enemy to entreat thee well in the time of evil and in the time of affliction.Hebrews 13:21Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.Genesis 33:4And Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck, and kissed him: and they wept.Colossians 3:20Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.Genesis 32:28And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.Philippians 4:18But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.
Historical Context
David experienced both versions—Saul's relentless pursuit and Philistines' surprising acceptance when David walked with God. God's sovereignty over human hearts was repeatedly demonstrated in Israel's history.
Questions for Reflection
- How does pursuing God's pleasure rather than others' approval affect your relationships?
- Where has God given you favor with unlikely people when you walked obediently?
Analysis & Commentary
When a person's ways please the LORD, even enemies are at peace with them. This promises providential protection for the obedient, though not immunity from all conflict. God can turn hearts (as He did with Joseph's brothers) or restrain opposition when it serves His purposes.