Proverbs 12:20

20 Deceit is in the heart of those whose thoughts are evil, but joy in that of those whose thoughts are good.

Proverbs 12:20 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 12:20

Deceit [is] in the heart of them that imagine evil
That secretly devise mischief in their hearts against their neighbours; that plough evil, as the word ^F7 signifies, and sow discord among men; and by many artful and deceitful methods promote contention and division, in order to answer some base designs of theirs; but sooner or later they are deceived themselves, are disappointed of their views, the consequence of which is vexation and sorrow; but to the counsellors of peace [is] joy:
such who consult the good of others, who advise to peace, concord, and unity; who seek to cultivate it in their families and neighbourhoods, and in the church of God, in which, if they succeed, they have joy and pleasure; if not, they have a satisfaction, in their own minds and consciences that they have done what is right and good; such have a conscience peace now, and an eternal one hereafter; or, as Aben Ezra calls it, the joy of salvation; see ( Matthew 5:9 ) .

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FOOTNOTES:

F7 (yvrx) .

Proverbs 12:20 In-Context

18 There are those that speak like the piercings of a sword, but the tongue of the wise is medicine.

19 The lip of truth shall be established for ever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

20 Deceit is in the heart of those whose thoughts are evil, but joy in that of those whose thoughts are good.

21 No iniquity shall overtake the righteous: but the wicked shall be filled with evil.

22 Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but the workers of the truth are his delight.