I like your point about it being inherent. God created man with potential. The potential is developed either positively (good) or negatively (evil). I think this inherent condition of free will is the best explanation of God saying that he creates evil.
God has said that he wants all men to be saved. All men, however, will not be saved. That’s man’s fault, not God’s.
God has a plan to save man. What does God need man to do in order for man to be saved by God?
Nothing? Hardly.
From the parable of the sower: SHURF -> see, hear, understand and repent to be forgiven.
A positive response from man to the gospel of the kingdom preached by Jesus and the apostles, obedience of faith and perseverance to the end.