Personal Wars

(Proverbs 24:6 KJV)  For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety.

This seems to be a simple statement.  As I was reading through I noticed that the Bible editors had put in a footnote about the literal meaning of the phrase “make war” (wage war NASB).  The marginal reading says this literally means “make battle for yourself.”  Since most of us will never be forced to “make” (wage NASB) (6213a) “war” (4421) this makes it a little more personal.  We all do fight battles on a daily basis. 

The battles we fight may be personal temptations.  The spectrum extends to standing up like Martin Luther in a public forum and declaring “Here I stand...”  We face conflict and difficulty.

The advice here is to seek “wise counsel” (wise guidance NASB) (8458).  Don’t be a loner.  We all have people who will listen to us.  The challenge is to find someone who is wise.  When someone gives you advice look to see if they have the character and evidence of spiritual maturity that makes their opinion worth consideration.  When you find them, treasure them.

So?  Do your own homework.  Pray and listen to the Spirit.  Listen to those who have the wisdom of age and experience.  Make decisions in the battles of your life.