How can we ensure our actions align with those who "fear the LORD"? Key Verse “I am a friend to all who fear You and to those who keep Your precepts.” — Psalm 119:63 Seeing the Verse in Action • Friendship is intentionally directed toward people who fear the LORD. • The same people are described as “those who keep Your precepts,” linking true reverence with obedient living. Practical Ways to Walk With God-Fearing People • Take inventory of closest relationships; prioritize time with believers who openly honor God’s Word. • Join gatherings committed to Scripture—small groups, Bible studies, church services (Acts 2:42). • Seek mentors known for consistent obedience (Proverbs 13:20). • Serve alongside those who display reverence—missions, outreach, discipleship teams. • Replace casual talk with spiritual conversation; godly friends “spur one another on to love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24-25). Guarding Against Harmful Influences • Refuse counsel that contradicts Scripture (Psalm 1:1-2). • Limit entertainment that mocks holiness. • Recognize “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). • Set boundaries with professing believers who dismiss obedience (2 Thessalonians 3:6). Cultivating Personal Fear of the LORD • Daily Scripture intake; let God’s standards shape every decision (Psalm 119:9-11). • Practice immediate obedience, even in small matters (Proverbs 3:7). • Hate what God hates—pride, evil conduct, perverse speech (Proverbs 8:13). • Invite loving correction; “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). • Remember God’s faithful love and righteous judgments; awe grows from knowing His character (Psalm 34:11, 103:17-18). Scriptures That Reinforce the Call • Malachi 3:16—those who feared the LORD encouraged one another, and He listened. • Proverbs 14:27—“The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life.” • 2 Corinthians 6:14—“Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers.” • Hebrews 12:28—serve God “with reverence and awe.” Alignment Checklist □ Today’s closest conversation built someone’s faith. □ My media choices honored God’s holiness. □ I obeyed a specific command of Scripture promptly. □ I encouraged another believer to keep God’s Word. □ I thanked God for His mercy that draws me to holy fear. Consistently choosing companions who fear the LORD—and becoming that kind of companion yourself—keeps your life moving in step with His precepts. |
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