What is the meaning of Proverbs 17:18? A man lacking judgment • The verse opens by labeling the person “lacking judgment.” Scripture consistently portrays wisdom as aligning oneself with God’s revealed truth (Proverbs 1:7). Refusing that wisdom is more than a poor choice—it is moral folly. • Proverbs 12:15 reminds us, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes,” underscoring that this lack of judgment is self-deception, not merely limited intelligence. • In contrast, “The prudent see danger and take refuge” (Proverbs 27:12), showing that true insight recognizes potential trouble and avoids it. Strikes hands in pledge • In ancient practice, striking hands sealed a financial deal. It is equivalent to today’s handshake on a loan contract. • Proverbs 6:1-2 warns, “If you have put up security for your neighbor… you have been trapped by the words of your mouth.” The same imagery appears in Proverbs 22:26, “Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge.” • The issue is not generosity but reckless promise-making. Wisdom invites thoughtful planning (Luke 14:28), whereas impulsive commitments reveal the “lack of judgment” just mentioned. Puts up security for his neighbor • Standing surety means guaranteeing someone else’s debt. If the borrower defaults, the guarantor must pay. Proverbs 11:15 states bluntly, “He who is a guarantor for a stranger will surely suffer.” • While Scripture calls believers to kindness (Ephesians 4:32) and sacrificial love (1 John 3:17), it never endorses foolish financial entanglements that jeopardize one’s household (1 Timothy 5:8). • Helping others should follow wise stewardship. Jesus praises lending without expecting return (Luke 6:35), yet He also teaches accountability, as in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30). Wise love blends compassion with discernment. Practical wisdom for today • Before co-signing or guaranteeing a loan, prayerfully evaluate: – Can I bear the full debt without harming my family or gospel priorities? – Will this enable irresponsibility rather than true need? • Alternatives often exist: offering advice, budgeting help, or a smaller, no-strings gift (Acts 20:35). • Romans 13:8 urges, “Owe no one anything, except to love each other.” Love expressed through prudence safeguards both giver and receiver from the strain of unpaid obligations. summary Proverbs 17:18 teaches that unthinking financial guarantees reveal a deficit of godly wisdom. Striking hands in pledge for another’s debt places one under unnecessary risk and contradicts the prudent spirit commended throughout Scripture. Genuine love seeks the neighbor’s good without abandoning responsible stewardship of the resources God entrusts. |
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