Compare Exodus 9:20 with Proverbs 1:7 on fearing the Lord. Setting the Scene - Exodus 9 unfolds during the seventh plague—devastating hail falling on Egypt. - Some of Pharaoh’s officials react to Moses’ warning; others scoff. - Proverbs 1 opens Solomon’s collection of wisdom sayings, grounding all understanding in reverent awe of God. Fear of the LORD—What It Means - Awe-filled recognition of God’s absolute authority (Deuteronomy 10:12). - Humble submission that shapes choices and actions (Psalm 111:10). - A heart posture that places God’s word above personal opinion or cultural pressure. Exodus 9:20—Fear in Action “Those among Pharaoh's officials who feared the word of the LORD hurried to bring their servants and livestock to shelter.” - Tangible obedience—moving quickly to protect people and property. - Trust in God’s warning over Pharaoh’s stubborn stance. - Life-preserving outcome: their households survive the storm. Proverbs 1:7—Fear as Foundation “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.” - Starting line for every pursuit of truth. - Contrasts the teachable with the hard-hearted. - Links reverence to wisdom, discipline, and lifelong learning (Proverbs 9:10). Shared Truths - Both passages elevate reverent fear above human authority—be it Pharaoh or self-confidence. - Obedience flows naturally from genuine fear of the Lord. - Blessing follows reverence (Proverbs 14:26; Exodus 9:26). - Rejecting God’s word brings loss—destroyed crops in Egypt, self-inflicted ignorance in Proverbs. Practical Takeaways Today - Treat God’s warnings and promises as certain reality, acting without delay. - Let Scripture, not culture, define wisdom and safety. - Evaluate decisions: Does this choice display awe of God or confidence in myself? - Cultivate teachability—invite correction, seek knowledge grounded in His word (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Living It Out - Start each day acknowledging His sovereignty; end each decision by aligning with His revealed will. - Store up His words, then act quickly when He speaks (James 1:22). Fear that moves the heart to obedient, informed action—that’s the common thread tying Exodus 9:20 and Proverbs 1:7 together, and it remains the wellspring of true wisdom today. |
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