Chapter
Verse

Proverbs 12:5

ESV The thoughts of the righteous are just; the counsels of the wicked are deceitful.
NIV The plans of the righteous are just, but the advice of the wicked is deceitful.
NASB The thoughts of the righteous are just, But the counsels of the wicked are deceitful.
CSB The thoughts of the righteous are just, but guidance from the wicked is deceitful.
NLT The plans of the godly are just; the advice of the wicked is treacherous.
KJV The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit.

What does Proverbs 12:5 mean?

Godly people naturally lean towards thoughts and attitudes which agree with a "just" God. They desire what is fair and honest for themselves and others. They do not scheme to take advantage of another person. Philippians 4:8 directs believers to think on things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable. Their thoughts should focus on excellent, praiseworthy things. Thoughts mold character, and character guides one's conduct.

Genesis 6 portrays the evil ways of the civilization that preceded the Noahic flood. Verse 5 tells us: "The LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually."

Like the thoughts of the wicked in Noah's day, the thoughts of the wicked in Solomon's lifetime were deceitful. Today, too, wicked people openly harbor warped, dishonest thoughts. They offer counsel that leads others astray. They suggest that evil is good and good is evil (Isaiah 5:20).
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