November 28
PROVERBS 20
16 Take a man’s garment when he has put up security for a stranger,
and hold it in pledge when he puts up security for foreigners.
17 Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man,
but afterward his mouth will be full of gravel.
18 Plans are established by counsel;
by wise guidance wage war.
19 Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets;
therefore do not associate with a simple babbler.
20 If one curses his father or his mother,
his lamp will be put out in utter darkness.
– Proverbs 20:16-20
PROVERBS 20 PLANS ESTABLISHED BY COUNSEL
A poem by ILMA inspired by these verses
When a man consults with good counsel
His plans are well thought of and will prosper
If a man does not seek the advice of wise people
His plans may fail because he won’t see the big picture
If a man goes ahead without consultation
He must be ready to expect the worst conditions.
Why do kings, presidents and other leaders almost always have a pool of counsel or advisers? Why can’t they just make all the decisions themselves regarding making policies and executing laws and other decisions regarding the nations they rule over? Because they do not see the whole perspective of something, they need the viewpoint of other wise people so that they can make better decisions for the good of the nation or country they lead.
Solomon mentions the importance of wise counsel in verse 18 of this Proverbs. The success of a plan is established by good counsel. Even going to war can be beneficial if there are wise heads put together to plan the best strategic action.
REFLECTION
• What does a leader manifest when he listens to good advice from his counsel?
