What is the meaning of Proverbs 3:29? Do not devise evil • The command is straightforward: plotting harm is forbidden. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists “a heart that devises wicked schemes” among the seven things the LORD hates. • God’s people are called to be proactive in good, not creative in wrongdoing (Romans 12:21; 1 Thessalonians 5:15). • The verb “devise” implies careful, intentional planning; therefore even silent fantasies of revenge or manipulation fall under this warning (Micah 2:1). • Walking in wisdom means letting every motive be filtered through love and integrity (Philippians 1:9-10). Against your neighbor • Scripture defines “neighbor” broadly—anyone within reach of your influence (Leviticus 19:18; Luke 10:36-37). • Violating a neighbor is never a private sin; it strikes at the fabric of the community God is building (Exodus 20:16; Proverbs 11:9). • By pairing “devise evil” with “neighbor,” the verse underscores that treachery toward someone close is especially offensive, echoing Jesus’ second great command, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). For he trustfully dwells • The neighbor lives in confident security, assuming goodwill from those around him. Psalm 15:1-3 portrays the righteous as one who “does no wrong to his neighbor.” • Betraying that trust shatters the peace God intends for daily life (Psalm 34:14). • Trust is a gift; to abuse it invites God’s discipline (Proverbs 11:13; 25:9). Beside you • Close proximity adds weight to the command. Offenses committed “next door” are felt immediately and deeply. • Proverbs 27:10 notes the value of “a neighbor nearby” in moments of crisis; sabotaging that relationship impoverishes both parties. • The verse presumes regular interaction—shared property lines, mutual aid, conversation at the fence. Such nearness is meant to foster blessing, not scheming (Romans 13:10, “Love does no wrong to a neighbor”). summary Proverbs 3:29 calls for hearts free of hidden agendas. The neighbor who lives beside us with open trust must meet only goodwill at our hands. God’s wisdom forbids plotting harm, especially against those in close reach, because treachery dismantles the peace He intends for everyday community life. Choosing integrity preserves trust, honors God, and turns proximity into partnership rather than peril. |
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