How can we apply the fear of God in our daily decisions? \Focus Verse\ “ He breaks the spirit of rulers; He is feared by the kings of the earth.” (Psalm 76:12) \What Holy Fear Means\ • Reverent awe that recognizes God’s unrivaled authority (Proverbs 9:10) • Conscious awareness that He actively judges and rewards (2 Corinthians 5:10) • Loving submission that seeks His pleasure above our own (John 14:15) \Why Fear Guides Our Decisions\ • God’s sovereignty is real and present; even kings must answer to Him (Psalm 2:10-12). • Every choice will be weighed before Christ’s judgment seat (Romans 14:10-12). • Holy fear guards us from the snare of people-pleasing (Proverbs 29:25). • It produces wisdom that the world cannot supply (James 3:17). \Five Decision-Making Checks\ 1. Would this choice honor the Lord’s name? (1 Corinthians 10:31) 2. Does Scripture clearly approve or forbid it? (Psalm 119:105) 3. Will it strengthen my witness or dim it? (Matthew 5:16) 4. Could it enslave me or others? (1 Corinthians 6:12) 5. Could I confidently present this action to Jesus today? (1 John 2:28) \Everyday Arenas to Practice Holy Fear\ • Speech: refuse gossip, exaggeration, and coarse talk (Ephesians 4:29). • Money: budget, give, and save as stewards of His resources (Luke 16:11). • Relationships: forgive quickly and keep purity boundaries (Ephesians 5:3). • Work ethic: labor “not only to be seen, but as servants of Christ” (Colossians 3:22-24). • Media consumption: set no worthless thing before your eyes (Psalm 101:3). \Encouragement for Consistent Application\ • The same God who topples rulers strengthens those who fear Him (Psalm 34:7). • Holy fear and joyful confidence grow together; “the LORD delights in those who fear Him” (Psalm 147:11). • Begin each day declaring His kingship, and decisions will naturally align with His will. |
    |