The Rewards of Wisdom

Sirach 4:11-19

4:11 Wisdom breathes life into her sons and gives help to those who seek her.

12 Whoever loves her loves life, and those who seek her early will win the Lord’s good favor.

13 Whoever holds her fast will obtain glory, and the Lord will bless the place she  enters.

14 Those who serve her will minister to the Holy One;  the Lord loves those who love her.

15 He who obeys her will judge the nations, and whoever gives heed to her will dwell secure.

16 If he has faith in her he will obtain her; and his descendants will remain in possession of her.

17 For she will walk with him in disguise, and at first she will put him to the test; she will bring fear and cowardice upon him, and will torment him by her discipline until he holds her in his thoughts, and she trusts him.

18 Then she will come straight back to him and strengthen him, she will gladden him and will reveal her secrets to him, and store up for him knowledge and the discernment of what is right.

19 But if he goes astray she will forsake him, and give him over into the hands of his foe.