What does Proverbs 24:2 teach about the intentions of the wicked? The Verse in Context Proverbs 24:2: “for their hearts devise violence, and their lips speak trouble.” Key Observations • The verse targets “their hearts” and “their lips,” revealing both inner motives and outward expression. • “Devise” is intentional, planned, calculated. Wickedness is not accidental. • “Violence” translates a Hebrew word covering physical harm, oppression, and injustice. • “Trouble” (or “harm”) on the lips shows that speech is a weapon aligned with the violent heart. What the Verse Teaches about Wicked Intentions • Wicked people live in continual premeditation of evil; sin is their agenda, not a momentary lapse. • The source of their plots is internal—“hearts” shows sinful nature drives behavior (cf. Genesis 6:5). • Their words are extensions of their hearts; what they say advances their violent plans (cf. Matthew 12:34). • Violence is broad: physical assault, character assassination, systemic injustice—any method that harms others. • Their thinking is contrasted with the fear of the LORD, which produces wisdom and peace (Proverbs 9:10; 3:17). Connecting Scriptures • Psalm 36:1–4—“He plots trouble on his bed; he sets himself on a path that is not good.” • Proverbs 6:14—“With perversity in his heart he devises evil; he continually sows discord.” • Jeremiah 17:9—“The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.” • Matthew 15:19—“For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.” Implications for Daily Living • Discernment: Do not envy or partner with those whose plans are rooted in harm. • Guard your own heart; unchecked thoughts can harden into violent intentions (Proverbs 4:23). • Evaluate speech: words reveal loyalties. Align your lips with truth and peace (Ephesians 4:29). • Pursue the opposite spirit—love, justice, and mercy—reflecting the character of Christ (Micah 6:8; Romans 12:17–21). |
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