Proverbs 4:1-13

1My children, listen to what your father teaches you. Listen carefully so that you understand what is right.

2My teaching will help you, so do not refuse it.

3My father taught me when I was a little boy. My mother loved me as her only child. My father said to me, ‘Think carefully about what I tell you. If you obey my commands, you will live well.

5Learn to be wise and to understand things properly. Do not forget my teaching or turn away from it.

6If you keep hold of wisdom, she will keep you safe. She will protect you if you love her.

7Learn to be wise, because wisdom is the most important thing to have. Make sure that you learn to understand things well.

8Respect wisdom as very valuable, then she will make you great. If you make her your friend, she will give you honour.

9Wisdom will bless you, as if you are wearing a beautiful crown on your head.’

10So listen to me, my child, and accept my teaching. If you do, the years of your life will be many.

11I am teaching you to be wise, so that you will know the right way to live.

12As you walk through life, nothing will stop you. Even when you run, you will not fall.

13Keep hold of my teaching. Do not forget it. Keep it safe because it will give you a good life.