How can we approach God with reverence, as seen in Deuteronomy 4:11? The Scene at Sinai “You came near and stood at the foot of the mountain, while it blazed with fire to the very heavens, with black clouds and deep darkness.” — Deuteronomy 4:11 • Israel did not casually stroll into God’s presence; they “came near and stood” at a specific, God-appointed place. • The mountain “blazed with fire,” reached “to the very heavens,” and was wrapped in “black clouds and deep darkness.” Everything about the setting announced holiness, power, and separation. • God deliberately chose this awe-inspiring display so His people would understand: approaching Him is never ordinary, never flippant. Why Reverence Is Necessary • God’s nature demands it. “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; all the earth is full of His glory.” (Isaiah 6:3) • God’s actions confirm it. “Our God is a consuming fire.” (Hebrews 12:29) • God’s Word commands it. “Guard your steps when you go to the house of God.” (Ecclesiastes 5:1) Applying Reverence Today Reverence does not mean distance; it means proper posture of heart while drawing near through Christ: 1. Remember His majesty ‑ Read passages like Psalm 99:1-3 aloud. ‑ Meditate on His attributes—sovereignty, righteousness, mercy. 2. Remember His mercy ‑ By grace we “approach the throne of grace with confidence.” (Hebrews 4:16) ‑ Confidence is never presumption; it rests on the finished work of Jesus. 3. Combine fear and love ‑ “Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.” (Psalm 2:11) ‑ Healthy fear guards against casualness; love draws us close. Practical Steps for a Reverent Heart • Prepare before worship—silence phone, quiet mind, read Scripture beforehand. • Kneel, bow your head, or lift hands as tangible reminders of His greatness. • Speak thoughtfully—avoid empty phrases; let words be few but sincere. (Ecclesiastes 5:2) • Offer your body as “a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” (Romans 12:1) • Guard obedience—reverence without obedience is hypocrisy. (1 Samuel 12:24) The Promise in Reverent Approach • God reveals Himself: “The secret of the LORD is with those who fear Him.” (Psalm 25:14) • God reassures: “To this one will I look: to the humble and contrite in spirit, who trembles at My word.” (Isaiah 66:2) • God refines: reverence keeps us pliable, ready for deeper holiness and joy. Approach Him as Israel did—mindful of fire and cloud—yet with the added assurance Christ provides. Reverence keeps wonder alive and worship pure. |
    |