Proverbs 2:1-9

1My child, if you receive my words, and store up my commands within you,

2by making your ear attentive to wisdom, and by turning your heart to understanding,

3indeed, if you call out for discernment – raise your voice for understanding –

4if you seek it like silver, and search for it like hidden treasure,

5then you will understand how to fear the Lord, and you will discover knowledge about God.

6For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth comes knowledge and understanding.

7He stores up effective counsel for the upright, and is like a shield for those who live with integrity,

8to guard the paths of the righteous and to protect the way of his pious ones.

9Then you will understand righteousness and justice and equity – every good way.