2-24-07 Proverbs 4:1, 2

Proverbs 4:1, 2 (KJ21)
Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and be attentive to know understanding. For I give you good doctrine; forsake ye not my law.

Proverbs 4:1, 2 (NAS)
Hear, O sons, the instruction of a father, And give attention that you may gain understanding, For I give you sound teaching; Do not abandon my instruction.

Proverbs 4:1, 2 (NIVUS)
Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching.

Proverbs 4:1, 2 (NLT)
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.




Fathers come in different shapes and sizes. They can be strict disciplinarians or they may be absentee fathers. Whether he realizes it or not, a father is the most influential person to his children and it is important that he be the best possible example that he can be. However, the father does not hold all of the responsibility in the relationship with his children. His sons and daughters must pay attention to what he says. Their responsibility is to listen and obey.

If you had a good father, you were exposed to discipline and correction. As a wise son or daughter, you listened to his instruction and teaching. By hearing and obeying these, you were not subjected to his chastisement and punishment. Inclining to and heeding the words of your father helps you gain knowledge and perception. You will become discriminating and discerning, knowing what is right in every situation that you face. Through the understanding and insight that you gain, you will become more prudent and discreet. Your diligence will definitely pay off.

If you were blessed to have a godly father, you received the best teaching and instruction, for he taught you from God's word. Committing yourself to your father's manner of life and his faith causes you to take the lead. You will find more happiness and prosperity than those who choose a different way. Therefore, do not forsake your father's laws and directions. They will always bring you restoration and repair.