Words To Live By

I defaulted to the "read a chapter of Proverbs a day because there are 31 chapters" today since I was kind of going no where in my Bible reading.  And it was good.


Proverbs 4


My children, listen to me.  Listen to your father's instruction.  Pay attention and grow wise, for I am giving you good guidance.  Don't turn away from my teaching.  For I , too, was once my father's son, tenderly loved by my mother as an only child.


My father told me, "Take my words to heart.  Follow my instructions and you will live.  Learn to be wise, and develop good judgment.  Don't forget or turn away from my words.  Don't turn your back on wisdom, for she will protect you.  Love her, and she will guard you.  Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do!  And whatever else you do, get good judgment.  If you prize wisdom, she will exalt you.  Embrace her and she will honor you.  She will present you with a beautiful crown."


My child, listen to me and do as I say, and you will have a long, good life.  I will teach you wisdom's ways and lead you in straight paths.  If you live a life guided by wisdom, you won't limp or stumble as you run.  Carry out my instructions; don't forsake them.  Guard them, for they will lead you to a fulfilled life.


Do not do as the wicked do or follow the path of evildoers.  Avoid their haunts.  Turn away and go somewhere else, for evil people cannot sleep until they have done their evil deed for the day.  They cannot rest unless they have caused someone to stumble.  They eat wickedness and drink violence!


The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, which shines ever brighter until the full light of day.  But the way of the wicked is like complete darkness.  Those who follow it have no idea what they are stumbling over.


Pay attention, my child, to what I say.  Listen carefully.  Don't lose sight of my words.  Let them penetrate deep within your heart, for they bring life and radiant health to anyone who discovers their meaning.


Above all else, guard your heart, for it affects everything you do.


Avoid all perverse talk; stay far from corrupt speech.


Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you.  Mark out a straight path for your feet; then stick to the path and stay safe.  Don't get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil.


(New Living Translation)