Proverbs 4:1-9

11Listen, children, to a father’s instruction, and pay attention so that you may gain discernment.

2Because I give you good instruction, do not forsake my teaching.

3When I was a son to my father, a tender only child before my mother,

4he taught me, and he said to me: “Let your heart lay hold of my words; keep my commands so that you will live.

5Acquire wisdom, acquire understanding; do not forget and do not turn aside from the words I speak.

6Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will guard you.

7Wisdom is supreme – so acquire wisdom, and whatever you acquire, acquire understanding!

8Esteem her highly and she will exalt you; she will honor you if you embrace her.

9She will place a fair garland on your head; she will bestow a beautiful crown on you.”