Proverbs 20:5
The purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out.
In context
2 The terror of a king is like the growling of a lion; whoever provokes him to anger forfeits his life. 3 It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife, but every fool will be quarreling. 4 The sluggard does not plow in the autumn; he will seek at harvest and have nothing.
5 The purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out. 6 Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love, but a faithful man who can find? 7 The righteous who walks in his integrity— blessed are his children after him! 8 A king who sits on the throne of judgment winnows all evil with his eyes.
Compare in other versions
- KJV King James Version
— Proverbs 20:5 in the KJV
Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; But a man of understanding will draw it out.
- NIV New International Version
— Proverbs 20:5 in the NIV
The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out.