In Proverbs chapter 4, the fatherly instructor reflects on the teachings of his own father and advises his son to make the pursuit of wisdom his primary goal. Verse 6 states, “Love her, and she will keep you.” Verse 7 emphasizes that “wisdom is the principal thing,” while verse 8 encourages the young man to “exalt her, and she will promote you; she will bring you honor when you embrace her.” 

In verses 10 through 19, the instructor explains that pursuing wisdom will bring order to one’s life! He warns the young man to avoid the path of wicked individuals, as verses 14-15 instruct, “Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of evil. Avoid it; do not travel on it; turn away from it and pass on.” Verse 19 states, “the way of the wicked is like darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.” 

Verses 20 through 27 stress the importance of paying attention to instruction. The instructor urges the young man to guide his ear, heart, mouth, eyes, and feet. Specifically, verse 23 advises, “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.” Verse 26 instructs him to “ponder the path of your feet; let all your ways be established,” while verse 27 further advises, “Do not turn to the right or to the left; remove your foot from evil.” 

We can learn to avoid pitfalls through the wisdom shared in these proverbs. Reflecting on my own life, I often wish I had heard such teaching when I was younger. God’s word offers guidance that can save us from a world of heartache and regret. There are so many mistakes I’ve made in my youth that I wish I could take back; they still sometimes haunt my memory, memories of missed opportunities and lingering hurt. 

We also could learn from the mistakes of others, thereby avoiding similar consequences. Often, God’s word teaches us about things to avoid, in order to escape the repercussions of sin. For example, engaging in reckless behaviors like drinking and driving can lead to severe lifelong consequences, such as arrest, being maimed, or killed in car accidents. Moreover, pursuing relationships that God does not ordain can leave lifelong scars, such as the implications of fornication and adultery. Those who commit various crimes may face significant legal consequences, including imprisonment. To put it another way, every sin has its price to pay. And even if God forgives one, some consequences of sin will carry with us throughout the rest of our journey on earth (2 Sam. 12:10-14).

So, young man, pay attention to the wisdom shared with you. Remember that Satan has long sought to convince us that God is withholding something good, which is a great deception (Gen. 3:4-5; Jn. 8:44). In reality, God aims to protect us from a life filled with suffering and heartache. Make the pursuit of wisdom your principal objective, and it will support and uphold you!