This passage is a proverb or wisdom section of Jeremiah. It asks what is the heart and what is God's vision for transforming the heart. Jeremiah begins describing and contrasting two different ways of living: the cursed way (a desert plant) and the way of the Lord (a well-watered tree). The cursed way is relying on self as well as actively turning away from the Lord and results in deprivation, purposelessness, and isolation. The other way of living is choosing to trust in the Lord. In this lifestyle, the trusting flourish like a well-watered tree and are able to endure suffering because of their hope. The human heart has a disposition towards deceit and is naturally drawn towards the self-focused way of living. The way to save our hearts is to ask God in prayer to examine us as well as seek him out by reading his Word.