“Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy.” (Proverbs 12:20). This proverb highlights a sharp contrast between those who plan wicked schemes and those who promote peace for the well-being of others. The first phrase, “Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil,” warns us that hidden dishonesty and selfish motives place a person on a destructive path. In various parts of Scripture, we see that such deceit leads to injustice and exploitation. It harms not just the one committing the evil but creates damage within the community, as trust and genuine relationship cannot grow in the presence of constant trickery.
The second phrase—“But counselors of peace have joy”—presents a starkly different picture: those who work toward reconciliation and harmony derive genuine contentment from their pursuits. This principle is seen throughout the biblical narrative, where God consistently values truth, love, and justice among His people (Deuteronomy 25:13-16; Romans 12:17-21). Living as peacemakers fosters a community where honesty and caring for one another can thrive, reflecting the heart of God’s design. It is “counselors of peace” who ultimately experience the inward satisfaction of serving others in humility and righteousness.
Jesus similarly taught His followers the importance of peace and mercy, urging them to reconcile with adversaries and even to respond to hostility with love (Matthew 5:9; Luke 6:29). This approach opposes the world’s pattern of retribution and deception. By choosing to be “counselors of peace,” believers discover a profound joy that comes from following God’s ways instead of aligning themselves with deceitful or self-serving agendas.
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Proverbs 12:20 meaning
“Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy.” (Proverbs 12:20). This proverb highlights a sharp contrast between those who plan wicked schemes and those who promote peace for the well-being of others. The first phrase, “Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil,” warns us that hidden dishonesty and selfish motives place a person on a destructive path. In various parts of Scripture, we see that such deceit leads to injustice and exploitation. It harms not just the one committing the evil but creates damage within the community, as trust and genuine relationship cannot grow in the presence of constant trickery.
The second phrase—“But counselors of peace have joy”—presents a starkly different picture: those who work toward reconciliation and harmony derive genuine contentment from their pursuits. This principle is seen throughout the biblical narrative, where God consistently values truth, love, and justice among His people (Deuteronomy 25:13-16; Romans 12:17-21). Living as peacemakers fosters a community where honesty and caring for one another can thrive, reflecting the heart of God’s design. It is “counselors of peace” who ultimately experience the inward satisfaction of serving others in humility and righteousness.
Jesus similarly taught His followers the importance of peace and mercy, urging them to reconcile with adversaries and even to respond to hostility with love (Matthew 5:9; Luke 6:29). This approach opposes the world’s pattern of retribution and deception. By choosing to be “counselors of peace,” believers discover a profound joy that comes from following God’s ways instead of aligning themselves with deceitful or self-serving agendas.