Proverbs 4:1-13

1Listen, sons, to a father’s discipline, and pay attention so that you may gain understanding,

2for I am giving you good instruction. Don’t abandon my teaching.

3When I was a son with my father, tender and precious to my mother,

4he taught me and said, “Your heart must hold on to my words. Keep my commands and live.

5Get wisdom, get understanding; don’t forget or turn away from the words from my mouth.

6Don’t abandon wisdom, and she will watch over you; love her, and she will guard you.

7Wisdom is supreme — so get wisdom. And whatever else you get, get understanding.

8Cherish her, and she will exalt you; if you embrace her, she will honor you.

9She will place a garland of favor on your head; she will give you a crown of beauty.”

10Listen, my son. Accept my words, and you will live many years.

11I am teaching you the way of wisdom; I am guiding you on straight paths.

12When you walk, your steps will not be hindered; when you run, you will not stumble.

13Hold on to instruction; don’t let go. Guard it, for it is your life.