Proverbs 4:1-9

New International Reader's Version

4 My sons, listen to a father’s teaching.
    Pay attention and gain understanding.
² I give you good advice.
    So don’t turn away from what I teach you.
³ I, too, was once a young boy in my father’s house.
    And my mother loved me deeply.
⁴ Then my father taught me.
    He said to me, “Take hold of my words with all your heart.
    Keep my commands, and you will live.
⁵ Get wisdom, and get understanding.
    Don’t forget my words or turn away from them.
⁶ Stay close to wisdom, and she will keep you safe.
    Love her, and she will watch over you.
⁷ To start being wise you must first get wisdom.
    No matter what it costs, get understanding.
⁸ Value wisdom highly, and she will lift you up.
    Hold her close, and she will honor you.
⁹ She will set a beautiful crown on your head.
    She will give you a glorious crown.”