In what ways can we teach others to "fear the LORD"? Opening Verse “Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD.” (Psalm 34:11) Understanding the Fear of the LORD • Not cringing terror but a wholehearted, reverent awe that moves us to love, obey, and worship God (Proverbs 9:10; Ecclesiastes 12:13). • Rooted in God’s holiness: “For our God is a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:29). • Evidenced by turning from evil and walking in His ways (Job 28:28). Modeling Reverence in Daily Life • Integrity in speech and conduct—keeping promises, speaking truth (Psalm 15:1-4). • Visible respect for God’s name—no casual or irreverent talk (Exodus 20:7). • Joyful obedience when no one is watching (Colossians 3:22-24). Teaching Through Scripture • Read the Word aloud: “Faith comes by hearing” (Romans 10:17). • Explain narratives as real history—Noah’s flood, the Exodus, the Resurrection—so listeners see God’s power and justice displayed. • Memorize key passages together—Psalm 19:7-11; Deuteronomy 6:4-9. Teaching Through Worship and Community • Sing truth-filled hymns and psalms that exalt God’s character (Ephesians 5:19). • Celebrate the Lord’s Supper with sober reflection on Christ’s sacrifice (1 Corinthians 11:26-29). • Encourage testimonies of God’s faithfulness; awe grows when His works are recalled (Psalm 145:4-7). Teaching Through Discipline and Correction • Lovingly correct sin, showing that God disciplines those He loves (Hebrews 12:5-11). • Connect consequences to Scriptural principles so learners see God’s moral order. • Reinforce repentance and restoration, not mere punishment (Proverbs 3:11-12). Teaching Through Remembrance and Testimony • Mark answered prayers and providential deliverances—keep a family or church “Ebenezer” journal (1 Samuel 7:12). • Retell stories of past revivals and missionary courage; God’s mighty acts inspire reverent fear. Teaching the Next Generation • Daily conversations—talk of God “when you sit… walk… lie down… rise” (Deuteronomy 6:7). • Scriptural milestones—bless children with verses at birthdays, graduations, marriages. • Practical service—let them join in giving, visiting the needy, defending the oppressed (James 1:27). Teaching Through Creation and Providence • Point out the heavens declaring God’s glory (Psalm 19:1). • Observe storms, seasons, and harvests as living lessons in divine sovereignty (Jeremiah 5:24). • Contrast human frailty with cosmic grandeur to cultivate humble awe (Isaiah 40:25-26). Practical Takeaways • Live what you teach; authenticity plants reverence deeper than words. • Keep Scripture central; God’s voice ignites holy fear. • Celebrate grace even as you stress holiness; the cross reveals both (Romans 3:24-26). • Trust the Spirit; only He writes the fear of the LORD on human hearts (Jeremiah 32:40). |
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