Strong Start

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise correction and wisdom. My child, accept your father’s discipline and follow your mother’s direction. — Proverbs 1:7–8 The Discussion Bible

The fear of the Lord is where wisdom begins,
Not with loud bragging or puffed-up grins.
It starts with respect—not shivers or fright—
But knowing what’s wrong and clinging to right.

Now some folks don’t listen. They scoff and they grin.
They toss out correction and drift into sin.
But wise little children—they stop, and they hear.
They listen with hearts that are humble and clear.

So listen, dear child, when Dad says, “Don’t stray,”
And Mom gently shows you the better way.
Their voices are gifts. Don’t toss them aside.
They point to where the real treasures reside.

When choices are tricky and answers seem thin,
Start with the fear of the Lord deep within.
It’s there that wise whispers will grow like seeds,
And guide every step with God-pleasing deeds.