Proverbs 16:1-2 (ESV)
1 The plans of the heart belong to man,
but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD.
2 All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes,
but the Lord weighs the spirit.
Wise people can and should make plans. The Hebrew word translated “plans” is maarakah, meaning to arrange or set something in order. God has given us minds to think carefully, prepare wisely, and make thoughtful decisions. Yet we should never forget that every plan must be submitted to the Lord. As James reminds us, we should say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that” (James 4:13-15).
Though our words come from our own hearts, God ultimately rules over what comes to pass, including the words we speak. Solomon writes, “The answer of the tongue is from the Lord.” Nothing escapes his sovereign control. The account of Balaam beautifully illustrates this truth. Though Balaam intended to curse Israel, God caused him to pronounce blessing instead (Numbers 23:11-12). Human plans can never frustrate God’s purposes.
The second proverb exposes our tendency toward self deception. “All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes.” We naturally rationalize our decisions, excuse our sin, and assume our motives are better than they really are. Our understanding is limited, and our blindness is often willful. Only as we look into the mirror of God’s word do we begin to see ourselves as we truly are and recognize our need for repentance.
In contrast to our flawed self assessment, “the Lord weighs the spirit.” God accurately evaluates not only our outward actions but also the thoughts and motives of our hearts. While our assessments are often distorted by pride, self deception, or limited understanding, God’s are always perfect. He knows exactly what is within every heart and, as Paul reminds us, will one day “disclose the purposes of the heart” (1 Corinthians 4:5). Nothing escapes his perfect evaluation.
What about you? It is easy to evaluate yourself by your own standards, but God’s standard of righteousness is infinitely higher. Ask God to examine both your actions and your motives. Thank him that through the blood of Christ there is forgiveness for sinful deeds and sinful hearts. Then seek to bring both your thoughts and your conduct into alignment with his will.