How can we cultivate a "fear of Him" as mentioned in Psalm 33:18? Setting the Verse before Us “Surely the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His loving devotion.” (Psalm 33:18) Recognizing What “Fear of Him” Means • A reverent awe that embraces both adoration and trembling (Proverbs 9:10; Hebrews 12:28–29). • A heartfelt reluctance to grieve or dishonor the God who is “holy, holy, holy” (Isaiah 6:3). • A posture that draws us near in trust while keeping us low in humility (Psalm 34:9; 1 Peter 1:17). Ways to Cultivate Holy Fear Daily 1. Saturate Your Mind with God’s Word • Read, memorize, and meditate on passages that reveal His majesty and judgments (Deuteronomy 10:12; Revelation 4). • Let the Spirit use Scripture to renew your thoughts so that His greatness stays in view (Romans 12:2). 2. Remember His Mighty Works • Recount biblical accounts of creation, the flood, the exodus, the resurrection—events that display both power and mercy (Psalm 111:2–4). • Keep a personal record of answered prayers and providences, stirring present awe through past faithfulness (Psalm 77:11–12). 3. Worship with Wholehearted Reverence • Sing truth-rich hymns and psalms that exalt His attributes (Colossians 3:16). • Approach corporate gatherings expecting to meet the living God, not merely attend a service (Psalm 95:6). 4. Practice Prompt Obedience • Treat every command as authoritative and good (John 14:15). • Confess and forsake sin quickly, refusing to let hardened habits dull holy fear (Proverbs 28:13). 5. Cultivate Humble Prayer • Begin prayers acknowledging His throne and your dependence (Nehemiah 1:5–6). • Intercede with gratitude that His loving devotion invites you near despite His infinite greatness (Hebrews 4:16). 6. Meditate on Final Accountability • Reflect on future judgment and reward (2 Corinthians 5:10). • Let the certainty of meeting Christ face-to-face shape daily choices (1 John 2:28). 7. Surround Yourself with God-fearing Companions • Walk with believers who speak often of the Lord and spur one another toward reverence (Malachi 3:16). • Receive correction from the wise; it deepens respect for His standards (Proverbs 13:20). 8. Serve Others in His Name • Actively look for opportunities to show His character through sacrificial love (Galatians 5:13). • Remember that every act of service is ultimately rendered to Him, heightening awareness of His presence (Colossians 3:23–24). The Fruit of Cultivated Fear • Persistent hope anchored in His covenant love (Psalm 33:18). • Ongoing delight in His commands (Psalm 112:1). • A life protected and guided by His watchful eye (Psalm 34:7). |
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