Add parallel Print Page Options

A Father’s Wise Advice

My children,[a] listen when your father corrects you.
    Pay attention and learn good judgment,
for I am giving you good guidance.
    Don’t turn away from my instructions.
For I, too, was once my father’s son,
    tenderly loved as my mother’s only child.

My father taught me,
“Take my words to heart.
    Follow my commands, and you will live.
Get wisdom; develop good judgment.
    Don’t forget my words or turn away from them.
Don’t turn your back on wisdom, for she will protect you.
    Love her, and she will guard you.
Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do!
    And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.
If you prize wisdom, she will make you great.
    Embrace her, and she will honor you.
She will place a lovely wreath on your head;
    she will present you with a beautiful crown.”

10 My child,[b] listen to me and do as I say,
    and you will have a long, good life.
11 I will teach you wisdom’s ways
    and lead you in straight paths.
12 When you walk, you won’t be held back;
    when you run, you won’t stumble.
13 Take hold of my instructions; don’t let them go.
    Guard them, for they are the key to life.

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. 4:1 Hebrew My sons.
  2. 4:10 Hebrew My son; also in 4:20.

Bible Gateway Recommends

NLT Gospel of John, pack of 10
NLT Gospel of John, pack of 10
Retail: $11.99
Our Price: $9.99
Save: $2.00 (17%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
NLT The Life Recovery Bible, Softcover
NLT The Life Recovery Bible, Softcover
Retail: $27.99
Our Price: $19.49
Save: $8.50 (30%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
NLT Premium Gift Bible-Soft leather-look, Dark Brown/Tan
NLT Premium Gift Bible-Soft leather-look, Dark Brown/Tan
Retail: $17.99
Our Price: $14.49
Save: $3.50 (19%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars