What does Proverbs 4:9 mean?

David continued his advice to Solomon (Proverbs 4:3) by promising that wisdom gives an attractive life to those who embrace it. Wisdom also extends life. The beautiful crown mentioned in this verse likely describes gray hair or age. Proverbs 16:31 says, "Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life." Although longevity is not guaranteed to Christians, applying wisdom to daily life can keep a believer from making injurious decisions. It also produces a life to be admired, even among those who reject God (Matthew 5:16).

For example, a wise Christian will say "no" when enticed by the wicked to sin. He will guard his health because he dedicates his body to God (Romans 12:1) and knows it is the temple of the Holy Spirit and wants to use it to glorify God (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). The apostle Paul recognized that his body belonged to God, and he wanted to use it well to run the Christian race. He declared in 1 Corinthians 9:26–27: "So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified."