Proverbs 12:2

The good man obtains favor from the LORD, but the LORD condemns a man who devises evil.

Study Bible

The good man
The phrase "the good man" refers to an individual who embodies righteousness and moral integrity. In Hebrew, the word for "good" is "טוֹב" (tov), which conveys a sense of moral goodness, pleasantness, and ethical virtue. This concept of goodness is deeply rooted in the character of God Himself, as seen throughout the Old Testament. A "good man" aligns his life with God's commandments and seeks to live in a way that reflects God's own nature. Historically, this would have been understood as someone who adheres to the covenantal laws given to Israel, striving to live a life that is pleasing to God.

obtains favor from the LORD
The Hebrew word for "favor" is "רָצוֹן" (ratson), which implies pleasure, delight, or goodwill. To "obtain favor from the LORD" suggests that God looks upon the good man with approval and blessing. This favor is not earned by human effort alone but is a result of living in accordance with God's will. In the scriptural context, favor from the LORD often results in tangible blessings, protection, and guidance. Theologically, this reflects the principle that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him and live righteously.

but the LORD condemns
The word "condemns" in Hebrew is "יַרְשִׁיעַ" (yarshi'a), which means to declare guilty or to pronounce judgment. This indicates a divine response to moral wrongdoing. The LORD, as the ultimate judge, discerns the intentions and actions of individuals. In the biblical narrative, God's condemnation is not arbitrary but is a just response to sin and rebellion against His laws. This serves as a warning that God is not indifferent to evil and will hold individuals accountable for their actions.

a man who devises evil
The phrase "a man who devises evil" describes someone who intentionally plans or schemes wrongdoing. The Hebrew word for "devises" is "חָשַׁב" (chashav), which means to think, plan, or calculate. This implies a deliberate and premeditated effort to engage in actions that are contrary to God's will. "Evil" in Hebrew is "רָע" (ra), encompassing anything that is morally wrong, harmful, or wicked. In the historical and scriptural context, devising evil is seen as a direct affront to God's holiness and order, often leading to societal harm and personal destruction. This part of the verse serves as a stark contrast to the earlier mention of the "good man," highlighting the moral dichotomy between righteousness and wickedness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Good Man
Represents individuals who live righteously and seek to align their lives with God's will. In the Hebrew text, the word for "good" is (tov), which implies moral goodness and integrity.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His relationship with His people and His role as the ultimate judge and source of favor.

3. The Man Who Devises Evil
Refers to individuals who intentionally plan or engage in wickedness. The Hebrew word for "devises" is (chashav), meaning to plan or calculate, indicating premeditated wrongdoing.

Teaching Points

Pursuing Righteousness
Strive to live a life that aligns with God's standards, knowing that His favor is upon those who seek to do good.

Understanding Divine Favor
Recognize that God's favor is not arbitrary but is given to those who live according to His will and purpose.

Avoiding Evil Intentions
Be mindful of your thoughts and plans, ensuring they are not rooted in wickedness or deceit, as God condemns such actions.

The Role of Intentions
Understand that God not only sees our actions but also the intentions behind them. Strive for purity in both thought and deed.

The Consequences of Wickedness
Acknowledge that devising evil leads to condemnation from God, and seek to repent and turn away from such paths.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to be a "good man" in the context of Proverbs 12:2, and how can we strive to embody this in our daily lives?

2. How does the concept of obtaining favor from the LORD in Proverbs 12:2 relate to other scriptures that discuss God's blessings on the righteous?

3. In what ways can we guard our hearts and minds against devising evil, and what practical steps can we take to align our intentions with God's will?

4. How does understanding the original Hebrew words for "good" and "devises" enhance our comprehension of this proverb?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's favor in your life. How did this align with your pursuit of righteousness, and what lessons can you draw from that experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 5:12
This verse speaks of God's favor surrounding the righteous, similar to how Proverbs 12:2 describes the good man obtaining favor from the LORD.

Proverbs 3:33-34
These verses contrast the LORD's blessing on the righteous with His opposition to the wicked, paralleling the themes of favor and condemnation in Proverbs 12:2.

James 4:6
This New Testament passage echoes the idea that God gives grace to the humble but opposes the proud, aligning with the concept of divine favor and condemnation.