Is the phrase in bold correct? Should it be 'prevent' or 'prevents'?

[Tan Elaine]

We have to prepare ourselves when our beloved one passes away. We must not become emotional when upset, cry or shout, “Please don’t go; don’t leave us behind.” This attitude or remark becomes the devil’s workings which prevent/prevents the person from passing away peacefully. It does not mean we become the devil but our attitude, behaviour and remark become the workings of the devil. Hence, we must be careful and exercise self-control.

Is the phrase in bold correct? Should it be 'prevent' or 'prevents'? Are there any other errors?

Many thanks.

[Barb_D]

If you want to use "workings" then it's plural so it should be prevent.

But it's odd phrasing. Is "the devil's workings" common in your language?

[Tan Elaine]

Originally Posted by Barb_D

If you want to use "workings" then it's plural so it should be prevent.

But it's odd phrasing. Is "the devil's workings" common in your language?

No. I think it should be 'the works the devil'. Is this phrase natural?

Thanks again.

[BobK]

Originally Posted by Tan Elaine

No. I think it should be 'the works the devil'. Is this phrase natural?

Thanks again.

Isn't there an "of" missing now? Besides, 'the work of the devil' or 'the devil's work' - singular - is more common. The only context in which I've met this plural is in the renewal of baptismal vows (which catholics do once a year [or did when I was one of The Faithful ]):

Priest: Do you renounce Satan?
People: We do renounce him.
Priest: And all his works?
etc

b