Wisdom for the Day: Proverbs 12:20

Proverbs 12

20 Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil,
but those who promote peace have joy.

Another translation puts it: Deception fills the hearts of those who plot harm, but those who plan for peace are filled with joy.

Throughout the book of proverbs we see the two ways. The way of the wicked and the way of the righteous. Wisdom all the time would have us follow the way of good over evil. We see on our tv screens at the moment riots over injustice. In the crowds on the streets there are those that are engaged in peaceful protests and those that are intent on havoc and destruction. George Floyds brother spoke out against the riots. Evil manipulates and can only be overcome by peace. We have seen that over the years. The most effective weapon against injustice is peace, not power. Martin Luther King, Ghandi, prime examples.

If it were as simple battle between two opposing foes it would be straight forward but unfortunately the battle between good and evil goes on in the human heart. Sometimes it is a struggle to do the right thing. When we give in to evil we are often filled with remorse. It leads to feelings that are far from joy. When we do the right thing it feels like we’ve been freed from a burden.

Peace doesn’t just come to those that are passive. Simply not doing evil is not good enough. If we want joy in our hearts we have to promote peace. We have to advertise peace, we have to be deliberate and active in the pursuit of peace.

Peace is one of the fruits of the Spirit. The Spirit of God is active in our hearts but we must join with him in this fight against evil. Last Wednesday my midweek message was around spiritual warfare and it goes on in our hearts. The battle is being won when we plan for peace, when we hold our hand up for peace. If you ask the children ‘hands up who wants a sweety’, the hands go up straight away.

Hands up for peace? Hands up who wants to be filled with joy? So promote peace today and be filled with a feeling of wellbeing.