In what ways can we "fear Him" as Ecclesiastes 3:14 instructs? Setting the Verse in Context Ecclesiastes 3:14 reads, “I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it or taken from it. God does it so that they should fear Him.” Solomon observes God’s perfect, unchangeable work. Because His acts are permanent and flawless, the only fitting response is a reverent fear—a humble acknowledgment that He alone is sovereign and we are not. What “Fear” Means in Scripture Fear of the Lord is not terror that drives us away, but reverence that draws us near. It holds together: • Awe at His majesty (Psalm 33:8–9) • Hatred of evil (Proverbs 8:13) • Submission to His authority (Deuteronomy 10:12–13) • Trust in His goodness (Psalm 34:8–9) Ways We Can Fear Him Today • Honor His Word – Treat Scripture as final and binding, not optional opinion (Isaiah 66:2). – Read, internalize, and obey what He commands (James 1:22). • Guard Our Tongues – Speak truthfully and respectfully about God (Malachi 1:6). – Refuse careless vows or irreverent jokes (Matthew 12:36). • Worship with Reverence – Gather with believers, singing and praying with full-hearted awe (Hebrews 12:28–29). – Approach the Lord’s Table thoughtfully, examining ourselves (1 Corinthians 11:27–29). • Pursue Holiness – Choose purity over compromise, knowing “the eyes of the LORD are everywhere” (Proverbs 15:3). – Confess and forsake sin quickly (1 John 1:9). • Steward Time and Talents – Work diligently, recognizing that every task is done before Him (Colossians 3:23–24). – Use resources to advance His kingdom, not merely personal comfort (Matthew 6:19–21). • Serve the Vulnerable – Show compassion, remembering that God defends the weak (Psalm 68:5). – Treat every person as made in His image, avoiding partiality (James 2:1–4). Practical Steps to Cultivate Godly Fear 1. Begin each day with a brief reading of a Psalm that exalts God’s greatness. 2. Memorize verses that highlight His holiness (e.g., Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8). 3. Keep a journal of God’s unchangeable works in your life; review it when tempted to doubt. 4. Practice silent moments in prayer, allowing His majesty to settle over your heart. 5. Surround yourself with believers who take God seriously; iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). Blessings that Flow from Godly Fear • Wisdom: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). • Protection: “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him” (Psalm 34:7). • Provision: “Those who fear the LORD lack nothing” (Psalm 34:9). • Intimacy: “The LORD confides in those who fear Him” (Psalm 25:14). • Stability: “The fear of the LORD leads to life; one rests satisfied” (Proverbs 19:23). In every era, God’s unalterable works summon us to respond with reverent, obedient, joy-filled fear—the posture that honors Him and secures our hearts. |
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