A Father's Guidance: Lessons from Proverbs 4

 

In one of my readings today, I came across Proverbs 4. As I read through the scripture, I began to reflect on a relationship that became even more meaningful after my mother’s passing. At the time, I was just 20 years old. Losing her impacted me deeply — in ways I’m still uncovering today. I’m sure it also affected my father, but instead of being consumed by his own grief, he chose to focus on me, supporting and guiding me through my pain.

A Father’s Example

Although I may not have fully appreciated or followed his guidance at the time, my father gave me an example that would later govern my life. As he often reminded me, “He, too, was once my father’s son.”

Through his actions and words, my father taught me to seek wisdom and develop good judgment. He showed me the importance of finding wise counsel among those around me. Later in life, I realized how his lessons prepared me for the guidance of a good AA sponsor. In my recovery journey, the 12 steps of AA became a powerful foundation, figuratively "presenting me with a beautiful crown" — just as Proverbs 4 describes.

The Life I Live Today

Today, the life I live is built upon the values my father instilled in me: love, kindness, and the constant support of family. I have found that these principles have given me a life that is rich and meaningful — one that, in many ways, stands alongside the best lives of anyone I encounter.

As Proverbs 4 promises, "I can walk and won't be held back, I can run and won't stumble."

And all of this is because I chose to "hold on to my father’s instructions and did not let them go." As Proverbs teaches, "Guard them, for they are the key to life."

A Lasting Wisdom

May I never "lose sight of them." May I "let them penetrate deep into [my] heart," because "they bring life to those who find them and healing to their whole body."

Proverbs 4 ends with these valuable reminders:

"Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.
Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech.
Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you.
Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path.
Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil."

I encourage anyone reading this: even if life brings loss or hard changes, God often places people — a parent, a mentor, or a friend — to guide you. And ultimately, He calls each of us to "hold on to instruction, do not let it go" (Proverbs 4:13).