What actions might lead to being "condemned" by God according to Proverbs 12:2? Text of Proverbs 12:2 “The good man obtains favor from the LORD, but the LORD condemns a man who devises evil.” Key Phrase Clarified — “Devises Evil” To devise evil is to plan, plot, or scheme with harmful intent. Condemnation falls not only on outward acts of wickedness but on the inner crafting of them. Specific Actions That Invite Condemnation • Pre-meditated deception: forging lies, falsifying documents, manipulating facts (Proverbs 6:17; Psalm 101:7). • Schemes of violence or oppression: planning theft, assault, or any form of coercion (Micah 2:1; Proverbs 24:8). • Financial fraud: dishonest weights, insider plots to defraud others (Proverbs 11:1; Amos 8:4-6). • Slandering or framing the innocent: strategizing to ruin reputations or secure unjust verdicts (Proverbs 6:19; Psalm 31:13). • Crafting temptation for others: laying traps that lure people into sin, whether through addiction, immorality, or false teaching (Habakkuk 2:15; Matthew 18:7). • Political or social intrigue that subverts justice: engineering policies or alliances for personal gain at the expense of the helpless (Isaiah 10:1-2; Proverbs 17:23). • Cultivating malice in the heart: brooding over bitterness, revenge, or hatred until plans form (Leviticus 19:17; 1 John 3:15). Scripture Echoes of God’s Judgment on Evil Planners • Proverbs 6:16-19 lists six things the LORD hates—“a heart that devises wicked schemes” is prominent. • Psalm 36:4 describes the wicked: “He plots evil on his bed; he sets himself on a path that is not good; he does not reject evil.” • Isaiah 32:7 portrays the “scoundrel” whose “devices are wicked plans to destroy the poor.” • Romans 1:29-32 shows that those “full of envy, murder, strife, deceit” stand under divine verdict. • James 4:17 states that deliberate failure to do the good one knows invites sin’s guilt. Guarding the Heart to Avoid Condemnation • Keep thought life pure: take every thought captive to obedience (2 Corinthians 10:5). • Seek wisdom and counsel before making plans (Proverbs 15:22). • Commit works and motives to the LORD, allowing Him to weigh the spirit (Proverbs 16:2-3). • Cultivate integrity in speech and action (Psalm 15:2-3). • Quickly repent when sinful schemes emerge in mind or deed (1 John 1:9; Proverbs 28:13). Walking in Favor Rather Than Condemnation The verse contrasts condemnation with favor. Choosing honest, righteous intentions brings the smile of God, aligning life with the path of the “good man” who “obtains favor from the LORD” (Proverbs 12:2a; compare Psalm 84:11; 1 Peter 3:12). |
    |