Proverbs 23:19-21 Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way. Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh: For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags. 

‘Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.’ This verse begins with a tender appeal from a father to his son. The command is not merely to listen, but to listen with the intention of becoming wise. Many hear instruction, but few allow it to shape their lives.

The phrase “be wise” implies applying God’s truth in daily living. Wisdom is not merely knowledge; it is the ability to make godly choices and walk in obedience to God’s will.

‘Guide thine heart in the way.’ The heart in Scripture represents the mind, the will, the emotions, and the inner life of a person. The heart naturally tends to wander toward sinful desires, worldly influences, and selfish ambitions. Therefore, it must be deliberately directed toward the right path.

This verse teaches personal responsibility. No one can guide your heart for you. Parents, family, teachers, and friends can give instruction, but each person must choose to direct his or her heart toward wisdom and righteousness.

The direction of the heart ultimately determines the direction of life. “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life” (4:23).