Proverbs 4:1-13

CLV(i) 1 Hearken, O sons, to a father's discipline, And attend in order to know understanding." 2 For I give you good monition; Do not forsake my law. 3 When I was a young son before my father, Tender, and an only child before my mother, 4 He directed me and said to me:May your heart uphold my word; Keep my instruction and live; 5 Acquire wisdom; acquire understanding; Do not forget, and do not turn aside from the sayings of my mouth;" 6 Do not forsake her, and she shall guard you; Love her, and she shall preserve you." 7 The principal thing is wisdom; acquire wisdom, And with all your acquisition, acquire understanding;" 8 Highly regard her, and she shall raise you up; She shall bring you glory as you embrace her;" 9 She shall bestow a wreath of grace on your head; A crown of beauty shall she award to you. 10 Hearken, my son, and take in my sayings, And they shall increase the years of your life." 11 For in the way of wisdom I direct you; I cause you to tread in routes of uprightness. 12 When you walk, your steps shall not be constricted, And when you run, you shall not stumble." 13 Hold fast to admonition; do not let your hold relax; Preserve her, for she is your life."