Ben Sira 19:18

18 The fear of the Lord is the first step to be accepted of him, and wisdom obtaineth his love.

Ben Sira 19:18 In-Context

16 There is one that slippeth in his speech, but not from his heart; and who is he that hath not offended with his tongue?
17 Admonish thy neighbour before thou threaten him; and not being angry, give place to the law of the most High.
18 The fear of the Lord is the first step to be accepted of him, and wisdom obtaineth his love.
19 The knowledge of the commandments of the Lord is the doctrine of life: and they that do things that please him shall receive the fruit of the tree of immortality.
20 The fear of the Lord is all wisdom; and in all wisdom is the performance of the law, and the knowledge of his omnipotency.
The King James Version is in the public domain.