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In this passage, Solomon tells how his father, David, urged him to seek wisdom. The Hebrew word for wisdom refers to much more than an accumulation of facts. In Proverbs, it means the ability to live life skillfully from God's point of view. Wisdom can be passed on from parents to children, from generation to generation. Even if your parents never taught you in this way, you still can create a legacy of wisdom as you teach your own children.

Proverbs 4:1-13

1. Solomon reminds his children (v. 3) that he's also been on the receiving end of parental instruction. What do you recall about training by your parents?
2. In verses 4-5, Solomon summarizes what his father taught him. What impacted you about your father's words? Did you see his actions as a good match-up with his words?
3. Verse 7 insists, "Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do!" Do you believe your children would pick up this emphasis from what you stress with them?
4. What do you think would motivate your children to "pay attention" (v. 1)?
5. What does verse 11 say is the dual job description for dads?
6. Do you need to work more on teaching (with words) or on leading (by example)?

Ask God for wisdom for raising your children so that a legacy of biblical wisdom will "take" in their lives.

1 My children, listen to me. Listen to your father's instruction. Pay attention and grow wise, 2 for I am giving you good guidance. Don't turn away from my teaching. 3 For I, too, was once my father's son, tenderly loved by my mother as an only child.

4 My father told me, "Take my words to heart. Follow my instructions and you will live. 5 Learn to be wise, and develop good judgment. Don't forget or turn away from my words. 6 Don't turn your back on wisdom, for she will protect you. Love her, and she will guard you.

7 Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do! And whatever else you do, get good judgment. 8 If you prize wisdom, she will exalt you. Embrace her and she will honor you. 9 She will place a lovely wreath on your head; she will present you with a beautiful crown."

10 My child, listen to me and do as I say, and you will have a long, good life. 11 I will teach you wisdom's ways and lead you in straight paths. 12 If you live a life guided by wisdom, you won't limp or stumble as you run.

13 Carry out my instructions; don't forsake them. Guard them, for they will lead you to a fulfilled life.

Copyright © 2006 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Thank you, Father, for using my children to reveal where it is I need to grow up, and to push me to put their needs ahead of my own.

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