A discerning heart brings clarity to our deepest motives.
When Solomon (970-930 BC), the third king of Israel, proclaims, “A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water, But a man of understanding draws it out” (v.5), he likens the human heart to a deep reservoir of hidden intentions and desires. The imagery of “deep water” illustrates how human motivations can be buried beneath the surface, invisible and undiscovered without deeper insight. Just as it is difficult to draw water from a well without the right tools, it takes wisdom and discernment for a person to uncover the genuine thoughts and plans hidden within themselves or others.
In this verse, we see a striking picture of how a person of understanding graciously brings these hidden plans to light. Likening this to Jesus’ teaching about what flows from the heart (Luke 6:45), we learn that a discerning spirit can perceive what truly resides within. As such, a wise observer, much like someone skilled at drawing well water, gently coaxes buried intentions out into the open, helping bring clarity to life’s direction and purpose.
Furthermore, the process of “drawing out” can be seen as aligned with the broader biblical theme of seeking divine insight, for James 1:5 teaches believers to ask God for wisdom. Hence, “A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water, But a man of understanding draws it out” (v.5) underscores the value of seeking spiritual discernment, illuminating how hidden intentions can be discovered and refined for God’s purposes.
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Proverbs 20:5 meaning
When Solomon (970-930 BC), the third king of Israel, proclaims, “A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water, But a man of understanding draws it out” (v.5), he likens the human heart to a deep reservoir of hidden intentions and desires. The imagery of “deep water” illustrates how human motivations can be buried beneath the surface, invisible and undiscovered without deeper insight. Just as it is difficult to draw water from a well without the right tools, it takes wisdom and discernment for a person to uncover the genuine thoughts and plans hidden within themselves or others.
In this verse, we see a striking picture of how a person of understanding graciously brings these hidden plans to light. Likening this to Jesus’ teaching about what flows from the heart (Luke 6:45), we learn that a discerning spirit can perceive what truly resides within. As such, a wise observer, much like someone skilled at drawing well water, gently coaxes buried intentions out into the open, helping bring clarity to life’s direction and purpose.
Furthermore, the process of “drawing out” can be seen as aligned with the broader biblical theme of seeking divine insight, for James 1:5 teaches believers to ask God for wisdom. Hence, “A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water, But a man of understanding draws it out” (v.5) underscores the value of seeking spiritual discernment, illuminating how hidden intentions can be discovered and refined for God’s purposes.