Proverbs 12:2

KJV

¶ A good [man] obtaineth favour of the LORD: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn.

KJV (with Strong's)

A good {H2896} man obtaineth {H6329} favour {H7522} of the LORD {H3068}: but a man {H376} of wicked devices {H4209} will he condemn {H7561}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A good man obtains ADONAI's favor, but the schemer his condemnation.

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

A good man shall obtain favor of Jehovah; But a man of wicked devices will he condemn.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 12:2 succinctly articulates a foundational principle of divine justice and wisdom: the starkly contrasting destinies of those who cultivate genuine goodness and those who harbor malicious intentions. It reveals that the Lord actively discerns the character and inner machinations of individuals, bestowing His gracious favor upon the upright while unequivocally condemning those whose hearts are given over to wicked schemes. This verse serves as a powerful testament to God's moral governance, where character and intent directly determine one's standing before the Almighty.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 12:2 is situated within the "Proverbs of Solomon" (Proverbs 10:1-22:16), a section predominantly characterized by **antithetical parallelism**. This literary device, frequently employed throughout the book, juxtaposes two contrasting ideas or statements to highlight a profound truth, often concerning the righteous and the wicked. In this verse, the "good man" is set directly against "a man of wicked devices," and their respective outcomes—divine favor versus divine condemnation—are presented in sharp relief. This structure reinforces the book's overarching didactic purpose: to instruct in wisdom, righteousness, justice, and equity, consistently demonstrating that there are two paths in life, each with distinct, God-ordained consequences. The verse fits seamlessly into the broader narrative of Proverbs, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of internal character and its outward manifestation, underscoring that true wisdom begins with the [fear of the Lord](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Beginning of Wisdom").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Proverbs emerged from the ancient Near Eastern wisdom tradition, which valued practical instruction for living a flourishing life. In ancient Israel, wisdom was not merely intellectual acumen but a holistic way of life rooted in covenant faithfulness to Yahweh. The concept of "favor" (Hebrew: _râtsôwn_) from the Lord was deeply significant, implying divine approval, blessing, and prosperity within the covenant community. Conversely, "condemnation" (Hebrew: _râshaʻ_) meant being declared guilty and facing divine judgment, often with tangible societal consequences. This worldview understood God as actively involved in human affairs, upholding justice and righteousness within the community. The "man" (Hebrew: _ʼîysh_) in this context refers to an individual whose character is fully developed and publicly known, reflecting the communal understanding that one's inner disposition would inevitably manifest in their actions and reputation. The emphasis on "devices" (_mᵉzimmâh_) highlights a culture where intentional planning and scheming, whether for good or ill, were recognized as powerful forces shaping one's destiny.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 12:2 contributes significantly to several key themes pervasive throughout the book. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Justice and Retribution**, asserting that God is not a passive observer but an active judge who rewards the righteous and punishes the wicked. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that God "will render to each one according to his deeds" (as seen in [Romans 2:6](/romans/2-6 "Romans 2:6 - God's Impartial Judgment")). Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of **Moral Accountability**, emphasizing that human beings are responsible for their character and intentions. It's not just outward actions, but the inner "devices" or schemes of the heart that God scrutinizes, a concept echoed in [Jeremiah 17:10](/jeremiah/17-10 "Jeremiah 17:10 - God Searches the Heart"). Thirdly, it develops the theme of **Divine Favor and Blessing**, portraying God's active goodwill towards those who align their lives with His righteous standards. This favor is a source of true well-being and security, contrasting sharply with the instability and eventual ruin of the wicked, a distinction powerfully articulated in [Psalm 1:6](/psalms/1-6 "Psalm 1:6 - The Way of the Righteous and the Wicked").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **good (Hebrew, _ṭôwb_):** This word is remarkably comprehensive, extending beyond mere moral uprightness to encompass that which is pleasant, beneficial, appropriate, and excellent. When applied to a "man," it describes someone whose character is not only morally sound but also agreeable, benevolent, and aligned with God's design for human flourishing. Such a person is seen as having a positive influence and bringing about good outcomes.
* **favour (Hebrew, _râtsôwn_):** This term denotes divine pleasure, acceptance, and goodwill. It signifies God's delight in and approval of the "good man," leading to a deep, relational blessing and active support from the Lord. It is not a passive state but an active demonstration of God's benevolent disposition towards the righteous.
* **wicked devices (Hebrew, _mᵉzimmâh_):** This word specifically refers to a plan or scheme, most often one that is evil, malicious, or cunning. It emphasizes the calculated and intentional nature of the wickedness, pointing to premeditated malice, deceit, or destructive plots. It highlights that the "man of wicked devices" is not merely prone to error but actively conceives and pursues harmful ends.
* **condemn (Hebrew, _râshaʻ_):** This verb means to be or declare wrong, to do wickedly, or to punish. In the context of divine action, it signifies God's definitive judgment, a pronouncement of guilt, and the subsequent bringing to ruin or punishment of the one who practices wicked devices. It implies an active and just response from the divine judge.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"A good [man] obtaineth favour of the LORD":** This clause establishes the positive outcome for the morally upright individual. The "good man" (one whose character is wholesome, beneficial, and righteous) actively "obtains" or secures the "favour" of Yahweh. This favor is not earned through works in a legalistic sense, but is a divine response to a life lived in accordance with God's wisdom and character. It signifies God's pleasure, acceptance, and active blessing upon such a person.
* **"but a man of wicked devices will he condemn."** This clause presents the stark contrast and negative consequence. The "man of wicked devices" is characterized by his malicious, cunning, and premeditated schemes. The pronoun "he" refers back to "the LORD," emphasizing that it is God Himself who will "condemn" such an individual. This condemnation is a divine declaration of guilt and an active judgment, leading to ruin or punishment for their intentional evil.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Proverbs 12:2 is **Antithetical Parallelism**. This structure directly contrasts two opposing ideas within the same verse to highlight a moral or theological truth. Here, the "good man" and his divine favor are set against the "man of wicked devices" and his divine condemnation, emphasizing the clear distinction between righteous and unrighteous living and their respective outcomes. This creates a powerful and memorable statement about divine justice. Additionally, the verse implicitly demonstrates **Divine Sovereignty**, as the Lord is presented as the ultimate arbiter of favor and condemnation, actively involved in the moral governance of humanity. This underscores God's active role in discerning and responding to the hearts and actions of individuals.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 12:2 profoundly connects to the broader biblical understanding of God's character as both benevolent and just. It reinforces the truth that God is not indifferent to human conduct or intention; rather, He actively observes, evaluates, and responds. The concept of divine "favor" is deeply rooted in the covenant relationship, where God's blessing and presence are promised to those who walk in His ways. Conversely, "condemnation" speaks to God's unwavering commitment to righteousness and His ultimate judgment against sin, particularly against premeditated evil. This verse aligns with the consistent biblical teaching that while God is merciful, He is also righteous, and His moral order ensures that there are real, spiritual consequences for one's choices. It underscores the principle that genuine goodness, stemming from the heart, is what truly matters to God, leading to a life lived under His blessing, whereas calculated wickedness leads to His just wrath.

* [Psalm 5:12](/psalms/5-12 "Psalm 5:12 - God Blesses the Righteous")
* [Psalm 1:6](/psalms/1-6 "Psalm 1:6 - The Way of the Righteous and the Wicked")
* [Jeremiah 17:10](/jeremiah/17-10 "Jeremiah 17:10 - God Searches the Heart")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 12:2 calls us to a profound self-examination, urging us to consider not just our outward actions but the very intentions and "devices" of our hearts. It challenges us to cultivate genuine goodness—a character rooted in integrity, benevolence, and alignment with God's will—knowing that such a life attracts the Lord's favor. This favor is not a magical charm but a deep, relational blessing that brings peace, guidance, and divine protection. Conversely, the verse serves as a solemn warning against harboring malice, deceit, or any form of calculated evil. It reminds us that God sees beyond the façade, discerning the true motives behind our actions, and that such wickedness inevitably leads to His just condemnation. Therefore, our application must involve a commitment to purity of heart, seeking to honor God in our thoughts and plans, trusting that His favor is infinitely more valuable than any earthly gain achieved through wicked means.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to rely on "wicked devices" or cunning schemes rather than trusting in God's righteous path?**
* **What does "obtaining favour of the LORD" practically look like in my daily life, and how can I more intentionally pursue it?**
* **How does the truth that God condemns "wicked devices" influence my approach to planning and decision-making?**
* **Am I cultivating a character that is truly "good" in God's sight, or merely outwardly compliant?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean for a "good man" to "obtain favour of the LORD"?**

Answer: For a "good man" to "obtain favour of the LORD" means that God looks upon him with pleasure, approval, and active goodwill. This favor is not a random occurrence but a divine response to a life characterized by moral uprightness, integrity, and benevolence, lived in alignment with God's wisdom. It implies a harmonious relationship with God, leading to His blessing, protection, and provision. This favor is a deep, relational acceptance that brings true peace and well-being, as seen in [Psalm 5:12](/psalms/5-12 "Psalm 5:12 - God's Blessing and Favor"). It signifies that one's life is pleasing to God and therefore receives His active support and blessing.

**What are "wicked devices" and why are they condemned?**

Answer: "Wicked devices" (Hebrew: _mᵉzimmâh_) refer to malicious plans, cunning schemes, or evil intentions that are deliberately conceived and pursued. These are not accidental wrongs but premeditated acts of deceit, manipulation, or harm. They are condemned because they originate from a heart that is hostile to God's righteousness and seeks to undermine His moral order. God, who is just and holy, cannot tolerate such intentional evil. His condemnation is a declaration of guilt and a righteous judgment against the corruption of the heart that manifests in these wicked schemes, ultimately leading to ruin, as [Proverbs 11:21](/proverbs/11-21 "Proverbs 11:21 - The Wicked Will Not Go Unpunished") warns that "the wicked shall not be unpunished."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 12:2 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the preeminent "good man" who perfectly embodied righteousness, benevolence, and divine wisdom. Unlike any other, Jesus lived a life utterly devoid of "wicked devices," His every thought, word, and deed being in perfect alignment with the Father's will. Consequently, Jesus supremely "obtained favour of the LORD," as evidenced by the Father's declaration at His baptism and transfiguration: "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" ([Matthew 3:17](/matthew/3-17 "Matthew 3:17 - The Voice from Heaven at Jesus' Baptism")). This divine favor was not merely for His own sake but for the redemption of humanity. Through His sinless life, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection, Christ absorbed the condemnation due to "a man of wicked devices"—the condemnation for all human sin and rebellion. By faith in Him, we, who were once "alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds" ([Colossians 1:21](/colossians/1-21 "Colossians 1:21 - Reconciliation Through Christ")), are now clothed in His righteousness and made acceptable to God. We do not obtain favor by our own goodness, which is flawed, but by being united to the one "good man" who perfectly pleased God. Thus, through Christ, believers receive the "favour of the LORD" and are delivered from the condemnation that their own wicked devices would justly incur, finding grace and peace in Him ([Romans 5:1-2](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1-2 - Peace with God Through Faith")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 8:35

For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD.

Acts 11:24

For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.

Psalms 112:5

A good man sheweth favour, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.

Romans 5:7

For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.

Proverbs 1:31

Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices.

Isaiah 32:5

The vile person shall be no more called liberal, nor the churl said [to be] bountiful.

Isaiah 32:7

The instruments also of the churl [are] evil: he deviseth wicked devices to destroy the poor with lying words, even when the needy speaketh right.