planning with care and sage counsel preserves us from unnecessary adversity and fosters victory in both physical and spiritual battles.
When King Solomon says, “Prepare plans by consultation, and make war by wise guidance” (Proverbs 20:18), he reminds readers that seeking godly counsel and carefully evaluating choices are crucial steps before plunging into life’s conflicts. In the broader context of Proverbs—many of which Solomon wrote during his reign as king of Israel (circa 971-931 BC)—this verse underscores how wisdom helps us steward our responsibilities and decisions, rather than reacting impulsively and creating greater turmoil. The same chapter also warns that “Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is intoxicated by it is not wise” (Proverbs 20:1), a counsel that illustrates how unchecked impulses can overshadow sound judgment when devising plans.
The phrase “by consultation” indicates that a multitude of trusted advisors can bring broader insight. Solomon’s emphasis on “make war by wise guidance” also applies to non-military struggles: whenever we face challenges—in the workplace, in relationships, or in personal conflict—we benefit from earnest counsel and godly wisdom to chart the best path forward. Elsewhere in Scripture, Jesus counsels His disciples to count the cost before taking on a great endeavor (Luke 14:28), reflecting the same principle of considering wise counsel and preparing with deliberate care.
Seek out those who align with righteousness, listen to their insight, and weigh decisions humbly under God’s direction so that when conflict arises, your course of action is paved with wisdom rather than folly.
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Proverbs 20:18 meaning
When King Solomon says, “Prepare plans by consultation, and make war by wise guidance” (Proverbs 20:18), he reminds readers that seeking godly counsel and carefully evaluating choices are crucial steps before plunging into life’s conflicts. In the broader context of Proverbs—many of which Solomon wrote during his reign as king of Israel (circa 971-931 BC)—this verse underscores how wisdom helps us steward our responsibilities and decisions, rather than reacting impulsively and creating greater turmoil. The same chapter also warns that “Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is intoxicated by it is not wise” (Proverbs 20:1), a counsel that illustrates how unchecked impulses can overshadow sound judgment when devising plans.
The phrase “by consultation” indicates that a multitude of trusted advisors can bring broader insight. Solomon’s emphasis on “make war by wise guidance” also applies to non-military struggles: whenever we face challenges—in the workplace, in relationships, or in personal conflict—we benefit from earnest counsel and godly wisdom to chart the best path forward. Elsewhere in Scripture, Jesus counsels His disciples to count the cost before taking on a great endeavor (Luke 14:28), reflecting the same principle of considering wise counsel and preparing with deliberate care.
Seek out those who align with righteousness, listen to their insight, and weigh decisions humbly under God’s direction so that when conflict arises, your course of action is paved with wisdom rather than folly.