Step Up! – Instruct – Proverbs 4:2

Step Up!

A Study of Proverbs 4:1-3
Sunday, July 12, 2026
Pastor Mike Bailey

Introduction

Step Up! explores the timeless wisdom of Proverbs 4 that’s rooted in a father’s wisdom to his children. In a world full of distractions, confusion, and competing voices, we will uncover what it means to live with purpose, lead with wisdom, and walk in godly character. Through practical and biblical truth, we’ll wrestle with the importance of discipline, discernment, instruction, gentleness, and love—qualities that shape strong fathers, faithful believers, healthy families, and purposeful lives. Step Up! offers a challenge for us all to grow, mature, and take the next step God is calling us to.

June 21 – Be Purposeful – Proverbs 4:1a

June 28 – Discipline – Proverbs 4:1b

July 5 – Discern – Proverbs 4:1c

July 12 – Instruct – Proverbs 4:2

July 19 – Be Gentle – Proverbs 4:3a

July 26 – Be Loving – Proverbs 4:3b

IMPACT Church 101 E. First Ave. Parkesburg, PA 19365
(610) 857-3887 [email protected]

Instruct

Proverbs 4:2

…my instructions…

My father taught me, Proverbs 4:4a

1. You cannot or without instructions.

Those who listen to instruction will prosper; those who trust the Lord will be joyful. Proverbs 16:20

Notes:

2. There are and instructions.

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 2 Timothy 3:16

The words of the wicked are like a murderous ambush, but the words of the godly save lives. Proverbs 12:6

Notes:

3. You can choose to or the instructions.

Take hold of my instructions; don’t let them go. Guard them, for they are the key to life. Proverbs 4:13

Get all the advice and instruction you can, so you will be wise the rest of your life. Proverbs 19:20

Notes:

4. There are and instructions for you.

No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8

The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.” Psalm 32:8

Notes:

Challenge:

How are you responding to instruction in your life?

It’s your sins that have cut you off from God. Isaiah 59:2a

For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Romans 3:23

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23

If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9

Growth Challenge:

This week be more purposeful in how you give and receive instruction throughout each day.

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Reread Proverbs 4 in preparation for next week’s message.

All Bible verses are from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.