Proverbs 9:10 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” In Proverbs 2:1-6, Solomon gave his son the bookends of gaining understanding ~ if, then.

“My son, if you receive my words, and treasure my commands within you, so that you incline your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding; 

yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding, 

if you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; 

then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth comes knowledge and understanding.”

Understanding doesn’t come from just reading. What we read has to be applied. It becomes part of our heart’s belief system. As I read the above verses, I hear the Lord speaking to me. He wants me to receive and treasure His words in my heart.”