Proverbs 4:1-12 ▼

1 Listen, children, to your father's instruction, and pay attention in order to gain understanding.

2 I give you sound teaching, so do not abandon my instruction.

3 When I was a son to my father, not yet strong and an only son to my mother,

4 he taught me and told me, |Let your heart fully embrace what I have to say; keep my commandments and live!

5 Get wisdom! Get understanding! Do not forget or turn aside from the words of my mouth!

6 Do not abandon her, and she will protect you. Love her, and she will watch over you.

7 Wisdom is of utmost importance, therefore get wisdom, and with all your effort work to acquire understanding.

8 Prize her and she will exalt you. Indeed, if you embrace her, she will honor you.

9 She will place on your head a graceful garland; she will present to you a crown of beauty.|

10 Listen, my son: accept my words, and you'll live a long, long time.

11 I have directed you in the way of wisdom, and I have led you along straight paths.

12 When you walk, your step will not be hindered, and when you run, you will not stumble.