1 Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.
2 For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.
3 For I was my father's son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother.
4 He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live.
5 Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.
6 Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee.
7 Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
8 Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her.
9 She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.
10 Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many.
11 I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths.
12 When thou goest, thy steps shall not be straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble.
13 Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.
14 Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.
15 Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.
16 For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall.
17 For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.
18 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.
19 The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.
20 My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings.
21 Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart.
22 For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.
23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
24 Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee.
25 Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee.
26 Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.
27 Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.
The book of Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings and teachings attributed to King Solomon, known for his great wisdom and understanding. Chapter 4 of the book of Proverbs continues this theme, with a focus on the importance of wisdom and the consequences of choosing the wrong path. This chapter is filled with practical advice and warnings, urging readers to seek wisdom and to avoid the pitfalls of foolishness and wickedness. Through its vivid imagery and powerful messages, Proverbs chapter 4 teaches us the value of wisdom and the path towards a fulfilling and righteous life.
The first part of Proverbs chapter 4 emphasizes the importance of wisdom and its many benefits. In verse 1, Solomon encourages his readers to listen to his instruction and gain understanding. He then goes on to speak of the wisdom that he received from his father, King David, and how it has brought him honor and favor in the eyes of God and man.
Verse 5 states, "Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth." This verse highlights the urgency and necessity of seeking wisdom. It is not something that can be gained passively, but it requires intentional effort and perseverance. The use of the word "get" emphasizes the action that is needed on our part to obtain wisdom.
In verses 6-9, Solomon continues to extol the value of wisdom, comparing it to a precious treasure that should be cherished and protected. He also speaks of the blessings and rewards that come with wisdom, such as a long and satisfying life, honor, and prosperity. Through these verses, we learn that wisdom is not only valuable in itself, but it also leads to a blessed and fulfilling life.
In contrast to the blessings of wisdom, Proverbs chapter 4 also warns against the consequences of choosing the wrong path. In verse 14, Solomon urges his readers to not enter the path of the wicked or follow in their ways. He describes the wicked as those who have no regard for God or His commandments, and who seek to harm and deceive others for their own gain.
The imagery used in verses 16-17 paints a vivid picture of the wicked and their actions. They are described as being unable to sleep unless they have caused someone to stumble, and their food and drink are taken away if they do not make others fall. This shows the obsession and greed of the wicked, who are willing to harm others to satisfy their own desires.
Verse 18 offers a stark contrast to the fate of the wicked, stating, "But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day." Here, the path of the righteous is compared to a shining light, which grows brighter and clearer as they continue to walk in wisdom. This serves as a reminder that while the path of the wicked may seem enticing, it ultimately leads to destruction, while the path of the righteous leads to life and fulfillment.
In the latter part of Proverbs chapter 4, Solomon emphasizes the importance of guarding one's heart. In verse 23, he writes, "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life." This verse highlights the fact that our hearts are the source of our thoughts, actions, and ultimately, our lives. Therefore, it is crucial to guard our hearts and fill them with wisdom and righteousness.
Verse 24 warns against corrupt speech and deceitful actions, stating that they should be put away from us. This is because what we say and do is a reflection of what is in our hearts. If our hearts are filled with wisdom and goodness, our words and actions will reflect that, but if our hearts are corrupted, our words and actions will also be corrupted.
In verse 25, Solomon advises his readers to keep their eyes focused on what is right and to avoid looking at things that are wicked or deceitful. This is a reminder to be mindful of the things we expose ourselves to, as they can have a significant impact on our hearts and minds.
Verse 26 encourages us to ponder the path of our feet and to make sure that we are walking in the ways of wisdom. This verse highlights the importance of self-reflection and self-examination, to ensure that we are on the right path and not straying towards wickedness.
In summary, Proverbs chapter 4 is a powerful reminder of the importance of wisdom and the consequences of choosing the wrong path. Through its teachings, we learn that wisdom is valuable and essential for a blessed and fulfilling life, while the path of the wicked leads to destruction and harm. This chapter also emphasizes the need to guard our hearts and minds, and to be mindful of what we expose ourselves to. The lessons and teachings in Proverbs chapter 4 are as relevant today as they were when they were first written, and they serve as a timeless guide for leading a righteous and wise life.
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