One of the themes in this chapter is the importance of listening. It begins with saying how a wise son hears his father’s instruction while a scoffer does not listen to rebuke (v1). Taking the advice of others is an essential part of wisdom (v10). Of course, the most important advice to listen to is the Word of God (v13). How we respond will be the difference of life and death.

Wise teaching acts like a warning or a diversion sign leading us away from that which would harm, but also wise teaching gives refreshment and blessing (v14). Honour comes to those who head advice while disgrace comes to the person who ignores wise advice (v18).

One of the important things to do to gain wise advice is to be a person who walks with the wise (v20). Are you keeping good company and have you a teachable spirit?

One other theme to note here is about having our hopes and desires fulfilled (v12). The key to being satisfied is being righteous before the Lord (v25). A right relationship with the Lord completes us. The problem is that this requires a turning away from sin which many will not give up (v19).