How does fearing God influence our decisions and actions today? Setting the Scene: A World Without Holy Awe “There is no fear of God before their eyes.” – Romans 3:18 Paul’s stark diagnosis explains why people drift into moral confusion: when reverence for God disappears, so do restraints on thought and behavior. The verse serves as a mirror and a warning—reminding us that every choice is healthiest when rooted in holy awe. Defining “Fear of God” • Not a cringing dread, but deep reverence that recognizes God’s absolute majesty and His right to rule every area of life. • Scripture pairs fear with intimacy: “The LORD confides in those who fear Him and reveals His covenant to them.” – Psalm 25:14 • Fear and wisdom are inseparable: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” – Proverbs 9:10; Psalm 111:10 Why Fear Matters in Our Daily Choices • It anchors our ethics: “Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man.” – Ecclesiastes 12:13 • It motivates holiness: “Perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” – 2 Corinthians 7:1 • It shapes long-term thinking: “Conduct yourselves in reverent fear during your stay as foreigners.” – 1 Peter 1:17 • It fuels grateful worship: “Let us worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.” – Hebrews 12:28-29 Areas Where Holy Fear Redirects Us • Speech – Romans 3 links godless talk to godless hearts. – “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths.” – Ephesians 4:29 • Integrity at work – “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord.” – Colossians 3:23-24 • Finances – “Honor the LORD with your wealth.” – Proverbs 3:9 • Sexual purity – “It is God’s will that you should be holy… not in lustful passion like the Gentiles who do not know God.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 • Forgiveness – Matthew 18:32-35 shows divine judgment on an unforgiving servant; holy fear moves us to extend mercy. Cultivating Godly Fear Today • Immerse in Scripture daily—God reveals His character and expectations. • Gather with believers who take His holiness seriously (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Invite the Spirit to search and correct hidden motives (Psalm 139:23-24). • Remember the final accounting: every action and word will be weighed (2 Corinthians 5:10). • Celebrate grace—reverence grows when we grasp the cost of our redemption (1 Peter 1:18-19). Living in Reverence, Walking in Freedom Holy fear does not chain us; it sets healthy boundaries that free us to enjoy God’s best. When His greatness stands “before our eyes,” decisions gain clarity, temptations lose power, and everyday actions echo eternity. |
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