Proverbs 4

English Passion Translation Bible 2020

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1Listen to my correction, my sons, for I speak to you as your father. Let discernment enter your heart and you will grow wise with the understanding I impart.

2My revelation-truth is a gift to you, so remain faithful to my instruction.

3For I, too, was once the delight of my father and cherished by my mother—their beloved child.

4Then my father taught me, saying, “Never forget my words. If you do everything that I teach you, you will reign in life.”

5So make wisdom your quest— search for the revelation of life’s meaning. Don’t let what I say go in one ear and out the other.

6Stick with wisdom and she will stick to you, protecting you throughout your days. She will rescue all those who passionately listen to her voice.

7Wisdom is the most valuable commodity—so buy it! Revelation-knowledge is what you need—so invest in it!

8Wisdom will exalt you when you exalt her truth. She will lead you to honor and favor when you live your life by her insights.

9You will be adorned with beauty and grace, and wisdom’s glory will wrap itself around you, making you victorious in the race.

10My son, if you will take the time to stop and listen to me and embrace what I say, you will live a long and happy life full of understanding in every way.

11I have taken you by the hand in wisdom’s ways, pointing you to the path of integrity.

12Your progress will have no limits when you come along with me, and you will never stumble as you walk along the way.

13So receive my correction no matter how hard it is to swallow, for wisdom will snap you back into place— her words will be invigorating life to you.

14Do not detour into darkness or even set foot on that path.

15Stay away from it; don’t even go there!

16For troublemakers are restless if they are not involved in evil. They are not satisfied until they have brought someone harm.

17They feed on darkness and drink until they’re drunk on the wine of wickedness.

18But the lovers of God walk on the highway of light, and their way shines brighter and brighter until the perfect day.

19But the wicked walk in thick darkness, like those who travel in fog, and yet don’t have a clue why they keep stumbling!

20Listen carefully, my dear child, to everything that I teach you, and pay attention to all that I have to say.

21Fill your thoughts with my words until they penetrate deep into your spirit.

22Then, as you unwrap my words, they will impart true life and radiant health into the very core of your being.

23So above all, guard the affections of your heart, for they affect all that you are. Pay attention to the welfare of your innermost being, for from there flows the wellspring of life.

24Avoid dishonest speech and pretentious words. Be free from using perverse words no matter what!

25Set your gaze on the path before you. With fixed purpose, looking straight ahead, ignore life’s distractions.

26Watch where you’re going! Stick to the path of truth, and the road will be safe and smooth before you.

27Don’t allow yourself to be sidetracked for even a moment or take the detour that leads to darkness.

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