What does Proverbs 23:24 mean?

Once again Solomon emphasizes the joy felt by parents when their children act with good sense and integrity (Proverbs 15:20; 23:15–16, 25). This verse, along with the next, implies that whether a person lives wisely is their own choice. Scripture encourages parents to raise children with wisdom and discipline (Proverbs 13:24; 22:6), while recognizing that children must make their own decisions (Proverbs 13:1; 15:5; 28:7). A child who acts contrary to godly wisdom (Proverbs 1:7) brings grief to their parents (Proverbs 17:21).

The highest degree of wisdom is demonstrated in reverence for God and obedience to His will. Jesus, the Son of God, pleased His heavenly Father by exercising wisdom and doing His will. Jesus said, "I always do the things that are pleasing to him [the Father]" (John 8:29). When Jesus was transfigured on a mountain, God the Father exclaimed, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him" (Matthew 17:5).

To be seen as righteous in God's sight requires trust in Christ as Savior (Galatians 2:16; 3:11). God sees the born-again believer as righteous in Christ, and He imparts righteousness to the believer. This is sometimes referred to as "imputed" righteousness (Romans 3:21–22; 2 Corinthians 5:21). This also means Christ imparts within us the capacity to lead a righteous life (Romans 8:1–4).