The Blueprints of the Heart

Much of our lives happens in the 'pre-planning' stage. Before we speak or act, we usually rehearse our responses in our minds. Whether drafting a kind surprise or dwelling on a sharp retort, our hearts are constantly devising something.

In Proverbs 14:22, we are asked a searching question: "¶ Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.." The word for 'devise' is the Hebrew ḥārash, which literally means to scratch, engrave, or even to plough. It depicts a craftsman carefully carving a design. When we spend mental energy carving out selfish or hurtful plans, we do more than stumble; we err. We wander from the safety of God's wisdom into a wilderness of our own making.

There is a beautiful alternative. When we intentionally 'plough' for what is good, God meets us with His mercy and truth. The word for mercy here is ḥesed, referring to God's deep, steadfast and loyal love. When you set your heart to do good, you walk in step with the character of Christ, who perfectly 'devised good' for us. As Psalm 25:10 reminds us, all the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth for those who keep His covenant.

Application

Take five minutes today to 'devise good' before your next interaction. Instead of merely reacting to circumstances, pray and intentionally plan one specific way to show kindness or speak a word of truth that builds others up.

Prayer

Lord, help me to stop plotting for my own way and start carving out plans that honor You. Thank You for surrounding me with Your mercy and truth as I seek to walk in Your ways. Amen.