How can we apply the awe and reverence shown in Judges 13:6? A snapshot of holy awe “Then the woman went and told her husband, ‘A man of God came to me, and his appearance was like the Angel of God, very awesome. I did not ask where he came from, and he did not tell me his name.’” (Judges 13:6) Manoah’s wife met the Angel of the LORD and was overwhelmed by His “very awesome” presence. Her reaction models the posture our hearts should take whenever we encounter God—whether through His Word, His works, or His Spirit. Why this moment still speaks • It reminds us that God is not ordinary; He is wholly other, the Creator who steps into human history. • The angel’s visit underscores that divine encounters are never casual events. • Scripture ties true wisdom to this kind of reverent fear: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). Seeing what they saw: holiness on display From Genesis to Revelation, everyone who truly glimpses God responds with trembling awe. • Moses at the burning bush: “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground” (Exodus 3:5). • Isaiah in the temple: “Woe to me, for I am ruined!” (Isaiah 6:5). • John on Patmos: “When I saw Him, I fell at His feet as though dead” (Revelation 1:17). These scenes show that awe is the only fitting response to God’s unveiled majesty. Practical ways to cultivate holy awe now 1. Start each Bible reading with quiet stillness. Remind yourself that the Author is present and speaking (Hebrews 4:12). 2. Speak His name with honor—never casually, always consciously (Exodus 20:7). 3. Worship with deliberate focus. Let lyrics, posture, and silence declare, “You are holy, Lord” (Psalm 96:9). 4. Memorize verses on God’s greatness (Psalm 145) and recite them when your heart feels dull. 5. Observe creation as a daily classroom of His power (Romans 1:20). Pause, look up, and say, “Let all the earth fear the LORD” (Psalm 33:8). 6. Practice immediate obedience when Scripture convicts. Reverence without submission is mere sentiment (John 14:15). 7. Celebrate communion thoughtfully, examining your heart, acknowledging the cost of grace (1 Corinthians 11:27-29). Guarding against casual familiarity • Resist reducing God to a motivational slogan. He is “a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:29). • Limit entertainment that trivializes holiness or mocks righteousness. • Watch your words. Humor that belittles sacred realities dulls the soul’s sensitivity. • Keep technology from dominating quiet moments. A hurried heart rarely senses the weight of glory. The fruit of living in awe • Deeper joy: Reverence magnifies grace; the God who is infinitely great is also infinitely good (Psalm 34:8-9). • Stronger faith: Awareness of God’s power calms fear of people and circumstances (Isaiah 8:13). • Clearer guidance: Humble hearts hear His gentle whispers (Psalm 25:14). • Contagious witness: A life that trembles at God’s Word stands out in a casual age (Isaiah 66:2). Living it out this week Pause before every major task and whisper, “You are awesome, Lord.” Let that confession shape your tone, your choices, and your worship. Awe is not a passing feeling; it is a settled posture that transforms ordinary moments into holy ground. |