The Modern Text Bible is a clear and beautiful re-expression of Scripture in today's language.

Make a Donation

What does Proverbs 23:26 mean?

My child, give me your heart. Let your eyes delight in my ways. Proverbs 23:26 - Modern Text Bible

(A plea for trust and for the child to truly value the parent’s guidance.)

Real wisdom starts when you open your heart and pay close attention to good guidance. The verse is a personal plea: give your trust, your focus, and your willingness to learn. The Hebrew word for 'heart' is lev, which means your inner self—your thoughts, feelings, and choices. It's not about just hearing advice, but about letting it shape who you are.

This is countercultural in a world that prizes independence and doing things your own way. The verse suggests that real growth happens when you let someone trustworthy speak into your life, and you actually listen—not just with your ears, but with your whole self.

If you're used to tuning out advice or keeping your guard up, this verse invites you to risk trust. Letting someone wise guide you isn't weakness—it's the start of real strength and maturity. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is let someone else in.