Honor the Wisdom You've Been Given ... Unpacking the Message of Verse Proverbs 6:20

Greetings,

Honor the Wisdom You've Been Given

“My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.”

— Proverbs 6:20

Unpacking the Message of Verse Proverbs 6:20

Proverbs 6:20 says, “My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.” At first glance, this might seem like a simple call for obedience to one’s parents, but when we take the time to sit with this verse and reflect, we discover that it touches something far deeper—it is a call to honor generational wisdom, to cherish moral instruction, and to cultivate humility in our walk through life.

This proverb is written in the voice of a father to a son, a pattern found throughout the book of Proverbs. Solomon, traditionally credited as the author, is passing on wisdom—not just knowledge, but a way of living rooted in reverence for God and love for others. The “father’s command” and “mother’s teaching” refer not merely to household rules but to godly instruction, principles that align with God’s law and ways. This is not about legalistic control but about life-giving direction.

There’s great significance in how this verse references both parents. It reminds us that wisdom is not confined to one source. In a society that often glorifies independence and self-reliance, the idea of leaning into the teaching of others—especially our parents—can feel countercultural. But Proverbs consistently affirms that true wisdom often begins with listening. Listening requires humility. It means being willing to admit we don’t have all the answers. It means being open to guidance, correction, and formation, especially from those who love us and have walked before us.

This verse also invites us to reflect on the content of that parental instruction. The assumption is that what’s being passed down is in line with God’s truth. In other words, it isn’t just about obeying parents blindly, but about recognizing when their teaching reflects godly principles—truth, justice, compassion, purity, discipline, and love. We’re invited to see this instruction as a kind of treasure, something to be kept, guarded, and lived out.

The Hebrew word for “keep” in this verse implies guarding something precious, like a watchman protecting a city. There is a sacredness to the wisdom of godly parents or mentors—wisdom that has often been forged through their own trials, errors, and faith. To “keep” it is to carry it close, to internalize it, and to let it guide the choices we make in our own journeys.

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There’s also a broader implication here. This verse reminds us of the importance of generational legacy. In today’s world, there’s often a divide between generations, a tension between new ways and old. But Proverbs 6:20 encourages us to build bridges, to value the insights of those who came before us, especially when those insights align with the heart of God. It encourages honoring our spiritual and familial heritage. For some, this might be biological parents. For others, it could be spiritual parents—mentors, pastors, teachers—whose words have shaped our faith.

The structure of this verse also points toward consistency. “Keep” and “do not forsake” imply continuity. The pursuit of wisdom isn’t a one-time event; it’s a lifelong practice. We are not only to hear these teachings once and move on. We are to revisit them, remember them, and let them take root in our hearts. They are anchors when we’re drifting and lights when the path is dim.

And for those who may not have had godly parents or who come from broken homes, this verse still extends grace. The heart of the verse is about receiving and cherishing godly wisdom wherever it is found. God can place spiritual mothers and fathers in your life—people who reflect His heart and help form you into the person He has called you to be.

Ultimately, Proverbs 6:20 is about living wisely, and wisdom in Scripture is not merely intellectual; it’s moral, relational, and deeply spiritual. Jesus Himself honored the law and the prophets, but also elevated the heart behind them. He was the perfect example of someone who kept the Father's command and never forsook truth. His obedience even unto death was the fullest expression of trust and honor. And we are called to walk in that same humility and obedience—not from compulsion, but from love.

So whether you are a parent, a child, or a mentor, this verse calls you to value the sacred exchange of wisdom. To receive truth with humility and to pass it on with love. It’s a call to stay rooted in the teachings that align with God’s Word and to be intentional in the way we honor those who have sown into us. In a world that changes constantly, these foundations remain steady, and they serve as guides that help us live lives that honor God, others, and ourselves.

Here’s a 7-day prayer and reflection guide based on Proverbs 6:20 — “My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.” 

This guide is designed to help you meditate on this verse throughout the week, deepen your understanding, and apply it meaningfully in your daily life.

Day 1: The Gift of Instruction

Focus: Reflect on the importance of godly guidance in your life.

Prayer: Thank God for the people He has placed in your life to lead, teach, and shape you—whether parents, mentors, or spiritual leaders. Ask for humility to receive wisdom, even when it's hard to hear.

Reflection Question: Who are the key voices of wisdom in my life? Do I listen to them with an open heart?

Day 2: The Heart of a Listener

Focus: Cultivating a posture that’s ready to receive instruction.

Prayer: Ask the Lord to soften your heart so that you do not grow defensive or prideful when corrected. Pray for the grace to discern what is wise and from Him.

Reflection Question: When was the last time I resisted correction that could’ve helped me? How can I grow from that experience?

Day 3: Honor in Obedience

Focus: Honoring your parents or mentors through obedience and respect.

Prayer: Invite the Holy Spirit to help you reflect the love of Christ in your relationships with those who’ve nurtured you. If needed, ask for help forgiving or healing broken parental relationships.

Reflection Question: What does it look like for me to honor my father’s and mother’s teaching today—even if we see things differently?

Day 4: Keeping What is Precious

Focus: Treasuring godly wisdom like a valuable inheritance.

Prayer: Thank God for the truth you’ve received and ask Him to help you store it in your heart. Pray for a spirit of discernment to know which teachings align with Scripture.

Reflection Question: Which biblical principles or parental teachings have shaped me most? How do I “keep” them in my heart?

Day 5: Breaking Generational Chains

Focus: Not all family teachings are godly—sometimes, we must unlearn.

Prayer: If there are unbiblical patterns passed down through your family, ask God for the strength to break those cycles and begin a new legacy of wisdom and righteousness.

Reflection Question: Are there any harmful habits or beliefs I’ve inherited that I need to surrender to God?

Day 6: Passing It On

Focus: Becoming a godly guide to others.

Prayer: Ask God to use you as a source of truth and grace to the next generation—your children, younger believers, or anyone you lead. Pray for the courage to share what you’ve learned.

Reflection Question: Who in my life could benefit from the wisdom God has given me? How can I humbly offer it?

Day 7: A Life Built on Wisdom

Focus: Living a life that reflects the fruit of godly instruction.

Prayer: Thank God for His Word, which ultimately anchors all human teaching. Commit your heart anew to walking in His wisdom and honoring the legacy of truth.

Reflection Question: How has honoring godly teaching shaped who I am today? What kind of legacy do I want to leave behind?

This week-long guide can be used privately in your prayer time, as a devotional within a group, or even as prompts for journaling. Let it stir not only reflection but transformation.

Closing thoughts as I pray for those reading or hearing this verse today...

Honor the Wisdom You've Been Given

In a world overflowing with noise and new ideas, God reminds us of something timeless and foundational:

“My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.”— Proverbs 6:20

This verse isn’t just about earthly parents—it’s a call to honor the godly guidance and wisdom He places in our lives, especially through those who’ve gone before us.

Whether from family, mentors, or spiritual leaders, their words are often rooted in love and truth.

As followers of Christ, we are called to live with humility and teachability.

Don’t overlook the lessons learned in childhood or the truths that echo from the past.

God can use those teachings to anchor you today and guide your steps tomorrow.

Let’s walk in obedience, honor those who’ve poured into us, and pass on a legacy of faith that endures.

With grace and purpose 🙏🏻

Be Relentless In Pursuit Of The Will 

Which God Has Set Upon Your Life,

❤️ Anthony and Anna Speciale