Proverbs 20:6

NET: Many people profess their loyalty, but a faithful person — who can find?

JPS: Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness; but a faithful man who can find? 

ESV: Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love, but a faithful man who can find?

ASV: Most men will proclaim every one his own kindness; But a faithful man who can find? 

KJV: Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?

Looking at the English versions, what do you think is the idea? Bible expositors, throughout the years have simiiar interpretations, but there is some variations amongst them. The idea seems to be this: it is one thing when a person promotes himself to another, but it is another when a true friend stands forth.

That true friend will not speak out of turn, will say what needs to be said even if the recipient does not want to hear it. A true friend is not one who will say brutal truth just to get it out, but will figure out a way to say it just the same.

One who promotes himself is a warning sign to the one who hears "be careful". Who will be so bold to promote himself? More than you think. Not all who say they care truly care.