Proverbs 16:4 - The Lord's Purpose for the Wicked

Proverbs 16:4
The Lord has made everything for its own purpose, even the wicked for the day of evil.


Message: The Lord's Purpose for the Wicked

Time: King Solomon is the principal writer of Proverbs. Solomon's proverbs were penned around 900 B.C. In the Book of Proverbs, Solomon reveals the mind of God in matters high and lofty and in common, ordinary, everyday situations, too. It appears that no topic escaped King Solomon's attention. Matters pertaining to personal conduct, sexual relations, business, wealth, charity, ambition, discipline, debt, child-rearing, character, alcohol, politics, revenge, and godliness are among the many topics covered in this rich collection of wise sayings.

What the Lord is Saying: 

Immediately, this verse makes me think of Ecclesiastes 3:11, "He has made everything appropriate in its own time."

I have looked at verses like this and I do think they are difficult to understand. Many speak of divine election or not. Election refers to the fact that God chooses (or elects) to do everything that He does in whatever way He sees fit. When He acts, He does so only because He willfully and independently chooses to act. According to His own nature, predetermined plan, and good pleasure, He decides to do whatever He desires, without pressure or constraint from any outside influence.

This verse from Proverbs 16 reminds us that in addition to God's chosen people, if he has not chosen someone then their result will be separation from God. But, this is a difficult concept for many to accept for people like to feel like they are in control.

Yet, many don't teach this about this verse. Several commentaries that I have, like Elliot says, "The assertion that “He has made the wicked for the day of evil,” does not mean that He created any one for punishment—i.e., predestined him for destruction."

Personally, I think these issues are hard to determine the meaning of. I'm not sure if God works everything for his own purpose or if he predetermined all to be either good or wrong. It's a difficult subject. I understand both sides and of their defenses and in the end, I'm not sure which direction ultimately to choose.

Promise: The Lord has made everything for its purpose.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your truth and I depend on You and trust in You for your providence and trust in you for whatever you decree. Thank you for your love. Give me insight into understand your truths and what they mean for the rest of my life.