“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our “God is a consuming fire.” [1] (Hebrews 12:28-29 NIV)
In the Christian faith, the concept of fearing God often raises questions and confusion. How can we love a God we fear? Isn’t fear contrary to the notion of a loving and compassionate God? However, delving deeper into scripture and understanding the multifaceted nature of God reveals a profound truth: the fear of God is not about cowering in terror but about reverent awe, respect, and recognition of His sovereignty.
The Foundation of the Fear of God
The fear of God finds its roots in acknowledging God’s holiness, power, and authority. It’s recognizing that He is the Creator of the universe, the Almighty One who holds everything in His hands. Proverbs 9:10 tells us, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” This fear is the foundation upon which our relationship with God is built.
Awe and Reverence
When we fear God, we approach Him with awe and reverence. Just as a child respects a loving parent, we honor God because of who He is. Psalm 33:8 says, “Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the people of the world revere him.” Our fear of God is not born out of dread but out of a deep sense of respect for His majesty and greatness.
Walking in Obedience
Fearing God also involves living a life of obedience to His commandments. In Deuteronomy 10:12-13, we’re instructed, “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?” This fear motivates us to align our lives with His will, knowing that His ways are perfect and lead to blessings.
Understanding His Love
Though fearing God highlights His authority and holiness, it’s essential to complement this understanding with the knowledge of His love and grace. 1 John 4:18 reminds us, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” As believers, we can approach God boldly because His perfect love casts out our fears. We can find comfort in knowing that His love for us is unconditional and unchanging.
A Call to Worship and Submission
Ultimately, the fear of God leads us to worship Him wholeheartedly and submit our lives to His divine will. It’s a continual journey of growing in intimacy with Him, where our reverence for His majesty deepens, and our obedience springs from a heart filled with love and gratitude. Proverbs 3:7 advises, “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.” When we fear God, we recognize our limitations and His supremacy, humbly submitting to His wisdom and guidance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the fear of God is not about living in dread but about embracing a posture of reverence, awe, and obedience toward our Creator. It’s a foundational aspect of our faith journey that leads us to a deeper understanding of His holiness and love. As we walk in the fear of the Lord, we will grow in wisdom, draw closer to Him, and experience the fullness of His blessings in our lives.
Embracing Christ, Living in His Love, Journeying Together in Faith
Dee ❤ Sealed In Christ
Cross References:
1. Hebrews 12:29, “God is a consuming fire”: Exodus 24:17, Deuteronomy 4:24, Deuteronomy 9:3, Psalm 97:3, Isaiah 33:14, 2 Thessalonians 1:7
Sealed in Christ 
Well said! I would like to add, from Isaiah 8:12-14, ”
12
“You are not to say, ‘It is a conspiracy!’
Regarding everything that this people call a conspiracy,
And you are not to fear [a]what they fear or be in dread of it.
13
It is the Lord of armies whom you are to regard as holy.
And He shall be your fear,
And He shall be your dread.
14
Then He will become a sanctuary;
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Amen! Thanks for sharing, Michael.
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Beautifully written, Sister Dee. As quiet as it is kept, I wish more people did understand the true connotation of ‘fear’…that is that it meant f-e-a-r! Scary! Terrifying! So many people don’t believe in God nor his ability to wipe them out with his little finger or by the wind or his pestilence. They use his name in vain. They steal his joy. They dishonor him by cozying up to his enemies. Etc., etc., etc. A good hard wrap on the noggin might just knock some sense into them. I’m just sayin’….
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That’s a great word, Sister Fowler! I agree totally, those who fit the category you are defining above should be VERY afraid of God. A good hard rap on the noggin’ may well just be exactly what they need. 🙂
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