Proverbs 17:18 – “ A man void of understanding striketh hands, and becometh surety in the presence of his friend.”
What is understanding? Scripturally, understanding is the knowledge and mastery of doctrine that are necessary to live a life worthy of the calling of Christ that we received after being saved. Spiritually, understanding is the knowledge necessary for discernment in order to both listen to and inquire of the Holy Spirit to ensure we follow the will of God. Socially, understanding is knowing how carnal situations and choices have a spiritual impact.
Any Christian without this knowledge will suffer the fate outlined in this verse. They will be brash, being full of anger, as well as in bondage to others. We will examine why this is true and show how understanding counteracts both outcomes.
The phrase strike hands means to brawl. One does not throw hands without one of two reasons: anger or defense (Either of self, others or justice). One cannot defend unless they have the understanding to comprehend the threat and act accordingly. So to stoke another without understanding means that the only reason is anger. What happens when a child becomes confused beyond their comprehension? They throw a tantrum. What did Cain do when he could not understand how his sacrifice was refused by God? He slew his brother. Our carnal man becomes violent when we lack the understanding mentioned, above.
Likewise, one without understanding is made surety for their friends. Surety is the principle that another is responsible to pay the debts incurred by a person. For instance, a co-signer on a car title is claiming that if the primary purchaser of a vehicle is unable to pay, they will be held responsible for the bill despite not driving the vehicle. Someone without understanding will always be taken advantage of by those that they consider their friends. Despite thinking that they had forged a lasting bond, the naive will always be caught “holding the bag” when the buck is passed around.
How many saints do we know, including some of us, that are always striking out in confusion and being left to handle the mess others make? The Bible is more than capable of giving us understanding. Those that live such a chaotic and miserable life lack this understanding: Seek ye first the kingdom of Heaven. They do not understand that the best thing they can do is live for God. They were never rooted in the Word of God, and built their houses upon the shifting sands of the world.
But, those that understand that God and His Kingdom are of supreme priority are the most meek and peaceful individuals Upon the Earth. God leads them to make friendships with those that edify and enrich their lives. They have understanding and that knowledge is what keeps their desire for the Lord renewed and their fire to live for God unquenched.
Your fellowservant in Christ,
Bro. Jordan Foster
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