Proverbs 4:3-9

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.’