Proverbs 21.22 is a picture of confident success. As such, it shows how the wise find a way forward to overcome challenges.

Proverbs for Professionals verse paraphrase for Proverbs 21.22 as used in the post: The Wise Find a Way Forward

The Precept Explained

A wise person can find a way forward when things are difficult. Thus, they deliver in the face of long odds! Hence, “scale the city (wall) …” in Proverbs 21.22.

Precepts – as old as the hills! Proverbs 8.25

In addition, they’re able to succeed in the face of strong and confident opposition.

As such, they succeed similar to going over a wall during an attack, Joel 2.7.

Then, once over the wall, the resilient are positioned to attack the over-confidence of the enemy. This also from Proverbs 21.22.

The Source of Confidence

However, for this success to occur, my confidence must be in the Lord, Proverbs 14.26. Conversely, it shouldn’t be in my material or intellectual assets.

Reverence brings strong confidence and gives me protection. Proverbs 14.26 paraphrase

As such, misplaced confidence is dangerous. Whereas, wisely managed persistence yields great gain in my life.

By the way, “strong” for confidence from the Lord in Proverbs 14.26 and “strength” from human confidence in Proverbs 21.22 are the same Hebrew word. Hence, physical strength isn’t the issue.

Conversely, the key here the source of the strength!


Proverbs for Professionals keystone image

Arrogant fools build walls for protection. Conversely, the wise build bridges of understanding!


Leadership Insight

Practically, this precept is about finding a way forward. Additionally, it speaks to leadership effectiveness.

In other words, success isn’t from being forceful, thus overpowering. Also, it’s not from threatening. Or, being devious or outright dishonest. More importantly, success isn’t because of outsmarting others.

Find a Way Forward

Instead, success comes from being wise. That is, from a precept-driven life that’s guided by universal principles.

Then, the outworking of being wise shows up in energy. And, in self-confidence. And, in effectively carrying-out strategy.

Because, as it turns out, getting over the wall is a sufficient but not necessary condition for success!

Apply This Today!

Successful leaders find a way forward because they’re energetic and goal-driven.

Moreover, when my confidence is from the Lord, I find a way to succeed because He makes me a wise leader.

Thus, as a result of their faith, the wise find a way forward.


Proverbs for Professionals photo of the author as used in the post: The Wise Find a Way Forward

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