Job 28:12 (KJV)
But where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding?
A number of years ago my family took our vacation to a wonderful area in Washington State known as the Methow Valley. The area is now rich in apple orchards and cattle ranches but it was originally settled by prospectors. We took some time to learn a little bit about prospecting (not much, but a little).
Prospecting, searching for the hidden treasure of precious metals, is a difficult task and has a bit of science to it. Prospectors look for certain evidences of gold and then begin panning streams and creeks near the evidence. If they find gold in their panning, they move upstream. They know that gold down stream likely means a vein of gold upstream. They are happy to collect the flakes and the nuggets in the water but they are looking for the place to start digging in the mountain for the real treasure. As difficult as it is, it is possible to find that vein and claim it for oneself.
Job uses that example, and that of other precious substances, to then draw us to how precious wisdom is. While it is possible for men to discover precious substances, no such possibility exists with wisdom and understanding. There is no “tell” to give evidence of its presence nearby. It is not obtained through science, discovery or hard work. Wisdom, Job reveals is only found in the fear of the Lord and in departing from evil (Job 28:28)

The most precious of all commodities a man may obtain (Job 28:18) comes from God. A man must go to Him His way in order to receive it.