Proverbs 4:11-27 ▼

11 I have directed you in the way of wisdom, and I have led you along straight paths.

12 When you walk, your step will not be hindered, and when you run, you will not stumble.

13 Hold on to instruction, do not let it go! Guard wisdom, because she is your life!

14 Do not enter the path of the wicked, or go along the way of evil men.

15 Avoid it! Don't travel on it! Turn away from it, and pass on by.

16 For they cannot sleep unless they are doing evil, and they are robbed of their sleep unless they cause someone to stumble.

17 For they eat the bread of wickedness, and they drink the wine of violence.

18 The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn that grows brighter until the full light of day.

19 But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness, and they do not know what they are stumbling over.

20 My son, pay attention to my words, and listen closely to what I say.

21 Do not let them out of your sight; keep them within your heart.

22 For they are life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body.

23 Above everything else guard your heart, because from it flow the springs of life.

24 Never talk deceptively and don't keep company with people whose speech is corrupt.

25 Let your eyes look directly ahead; fix your gaze straight in front of you.

26 Carefully measure the paths for your feet, and all your ways will be established.

27 Do not turn to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil.