what we devise

Do they not go astray who devise evil?

Those who devise good meet steadfast love and faithfulness.

Proverbs 14:22

The word “devise” generally means to plan, invent, or give careful thought to something. And with that clear understanding that careful attention and intention mark our lives (even the most carefree or lackadaisical of lifestyles intentionally chooses whimsy) we can understand what is being communicated in this proverb.

There are people, sometimes even our own selves when we are consumed in a sinful pattern, who devise what is wrong routinely. This is evil. It is a default setting on every human heart. And when this is multiplied by culture, selfishness magnified exponentially, and by Satan’s own devious planning, it is no wonder that evil is regularly observed in the world. But the end of these kinds of plans leads astray. They don’t get anywhere on track. Sin always misses the mark. And those who give careful thought to sinful plans may find short-term fulfillment at the price of eternal destruction. This is the path our world is on. It has been ever since Adam and Even gave careful thought to directly disobeying their Creator’s command.

There is an encouragement though to give careful thought to what is good. And the source of ALL goodness is God. It would follow that His Word can thus show us what is good and right. And the outcome explained in this proverb is quite appealing. Those who give their attention to what God reveals as good will find grace (steadfast love) and a faithful God supplying what is needed in His good and perfect way.

So, we can meet a good end or a bad end. What will we choose to set our minds upon? Careful thought to the gospel, to good news that Jesus saves us from sin and changes us so that we are empowered to reject evil and embrace God’s holy goodness and truth, will be rewarded. Christians must be committed to devising what is good. It starts with what our hearts choose to plan. Plan to carefully follow Jesus and His Word!