How can we apply the principle of fearing God in our decisions today? Setting the Scene with Abraham “Do not lay a hand on the boy or do anything to him,” said the angel. “For now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your only son from Me.” (Genesis 22:12) Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac was concrete proof of a heart that placed God above every earthly treasure. His obedience flowed out of holy fear—a worshipful reverence that kept God’s will first, even when it cost everything. What “Fear of God” Really Means • Awe at His limitless power and holiness • Deep respect that takes His commands seriously • Loving loyalty that would rather lose anything than grieve Him • Conscious awareness that He sees, judges, and rewards (Hebrews 4:13; 2 Corinthians 5:10) Why the Fear of God Still Directs Every Choice • It is the “beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). Decisions guided by reverence line up with true reality. • It guards against the subtle pull of people-pleasing (Psalm 118:8; Acts 5:29). • It anchors us when options conflict; God’s honor outweighs convenience or profit (Ecclesiastes 12:13). • It invites intimacy with the Lord—“The LORD confides in those who fear Him” (Psalm 25:14). Practical Ways to Choose in the Fear of God 1. Start with Scripture—ask, “What has God already said about this area?” 2. Evaluate motives—seek His glory, not personal applause (1 Corinthians 10:31). 3. Consider eternal consequences—Jesus said, “Fear Him who has authority to cast into hell” (Luke 12:5). 4. Invite accountability—wise counselors reinforce reverence (Proverbs 13:20). 5. Obey promptly—delayed obedience often becomes disobedience (James 4:17). 6. Trust the outcome—Abraham discovered God’s provision after obedience (Genesis 22:13-14). Scripture Snapshots That Illuminate • Proverbs 1:7 — “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.” • Psalm 112:1 — “Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who greatly delights in His commandments.” • Acts 9:31 — “The church… walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, multiplied.” • Philippians 2:12-13 — “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you…” Everyday Arenas to Apply Holy Fear • Finances—honesty in taxes, generosity, refusal to exploit others • Relationships—purity before marriage, faithfulness within it, truthful speech • Work & School—integrity even when no one is checking, excellence as service to Christ (Colossians 3:23-24) • Entertainment—choosing content that honors His holiness (Psalm 101:3) • Decisions about time—prioritizing worship, fellowship, and service (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Stewardship of body—avoiding addictions, honoring the body as His temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) Blessings That Follow Reverent Choices • Deeper awareness of God’s presence and guidance • Freedom from the tyranny of human opinion • Courage in trials, knowing the Almighty stands with you • A legacy that points others to trust and obey the Lord • Eternal reward—“The LORD delights in those who fear Him” (Psalm 147:11) Living It Out Like Abraham, we prove our fear of God not by words alone but by costly, everyday obedience. When decisions arise—big or small—placing God’s pleasure above personal preference reflects holy awe and opens the door to His faithful provision. |
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