Why It Matters //

This proverb is instruction from a parent to a child, or the transfer of wisdom from someone with more experience.  It reminds us of how we should posture our heart and spirit to receive from God, so that we can understand the things He is showing us. It talks about the importance of the welfare of our innermost being and that we should guard the affections of our heart.

What It's Talking About // 

Proverbs is considered a Book of Wisdom, primarily written by King Solomon, David’s son and heir whom God had blessed with the gift of godly wisdom. Through this book, Solomon advises Israel through various sayings and teachings, ultimately urging them to fear the Word of God and pursue His wisdom and His ways above the words/ways of the world: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline” (Prov. 1:7).

Proverbs 4:20-27 TPT

20 Listen carefully, my dear child, to everything that I teach you,

and pay attention to all that I have to say.

21 Fill your thoughts with my words

until they penetrate deep into your spirit.

22 Then, as you unwrap my words,

they will impart true life and radiant health

into the very core of your being.

23 So above all, guard the affections of your heart,

for they affect all that you are.

Pay attention to the welfare of your innermost being,

for from there flows the wellspring of life.

24 Avoid dishonest speech and pretentious words.

Be free from using perverse words no matter what!

Watch Where You’re Going

25 Set your gaze on the path before you.

With fixed purpose, looking straight ahead,

ignore life’s distractions.

26 Watch where you’re going!

Stick to the path of truth,

and the road will be safe and smooth before you.

27 Don’t allow yourself to be sidetracked for even a moment

or take the detour that leads to darkness.