Looking Forward: Gray hair is a crown of splendor;
    it is attained in the way of righteousness. (16:31)

Living to old age was the mark of a special blessing in the days of Solomon, as relatively few lived long enough to have grey hair. Grey hair then, is attained by righteous living in God’s favor.

Looking Inward: Better a patient person than a warrior,
    one with self-control than one who takes a city. (16:32)

This gives us an interesting comparison, one that we might not phrase this way today, yet it still makes the point well. It is far better for a person to be patient and have self-control, than to be constantly putting themselves in harm’s way without thinking things through first. I have found that when taking a test, I should always go with my first impulse for an answer and not to question it. But in matters involving confrontation reactions and confrontation, my first impulse is usually wrong.

It is fair to say that I’m a very good test-taker, and usually a guy who has a cool head in a tough situation.

Looking Upward: The lot is cast into the lap,
    but its every decision is from the Lord. (16:33)

As we travel through this life, it is important for us to recognize that ultimately, God is in control of events. It is true that He gave us free will and a long rope, but ultimately, He is in control. Back in Old Testament times, lots would be cast in certain circumstances to determine what God’s will was in that situation, and while we don’t usually cast lots now, we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, which people then were not. Thus, it’s great practice for us to seek His will in prayer and contemplation on a regular basis and to follow His lead as best we can in every situation.