How can we "fear the LORD" in our daily lives today? The Heart of Deuteronomy 10:12 “ ‘And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul,’ ” Moses ties holy fear to everyday obedience, love, and service. The verse is not calling for a momentary feeling but for an all-of-life posture that shapes every decision. What “Fear the LORD” Means • Awe-filled reverence—standing before His majesty with humble wonder (Psalm 33:8) • Deep-seated allegiance—choosing His ways over our own no matter the cost (Ecclesiastes 12:13) • Loving submission—obeying because we cherish Him, not because we dread punishment (John 14:15) Holy fear is affection and obedience fused together. Why Fear Still Matters Today • It is the doorway to wisdom: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7). • It guards us from sin’s deceit (Proverbs 16:6). • It anchors joy and blessing: “Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who greatly delights in His commandments” (Psalm 112:1). God has not changed; neither has the blessing that flows from fearing Him. Practical Ways to Walk in Holy Fear Daily Attitudes • Start the morning acknowledging His sovereignty; surrender the day’s agenda to Him. • Cultivate gratitude—thank Him aloud for specific mercies (James 1:17). • Keep short accounts with sin; confess quickly (1 John 1:9). Habits of the Heart • Anchor each day in Scripture. Regular reading lets His voice set the tone (Psalm 119:38). • Pray with expectancy. Fearful reverence and bold child-like requests can coexist (Hebrews 4:16). • Memorize key verses on God’s character; recall them in temptation. Relationships • Speak truthfully even when it costs; we fear God more than people (Proverbs 29:25). • Forgive because He commands it and has forgiven us (Ephesians 4:32). • Honor authorities—parents, employers, government—unless they contradict God (1 Peter 2:17). Work and Stewardship • Work “as to the Lord” (Colossians 3:23), remembering that every task is done before His face. • Handle money as a trust, giving firstfruits generously (Proverbs 3:9–10). • Care for creation and possessions knowing they belong to Him (Psalm 24:1). Trials and Uncertainty • Trade panic for trust: “Do not be afraid… for I am your God” (Isaiah 41:10). • Refuse shortcuts that compromise integrity; holy fear chooses faithfulness over ease (Daniel 3:16-18). • Rehearse His past deliverances to strengthen present confidence (Psalm 77:11-12). Witness • Speak of Christ openly, remembering we will answer to Him for our silence (Matthew 10:32-33). • Live distinct lives that provoke questions, then point to the hope within (1 Peter 3:15). Guardrails to Keep the Fear of the LORD Fresh • Weekly fellowship and worship—hearing God’s Word preached realigns priorities (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Accountability friendships—invite others to point out drift (Proverbs 27:17). • Periodic fasting—reminds the body who is Master (Matthew 6:16-18). • Celebrate the Lord’s Supper with sober joy, discerning His sacrifice (1 Corinthians 11:26-29). Promises Tied to Holy Fear • Guidance: “The secret counsel of the LORD is for those who fear Him” (Psalm 25:14). • Stability: “He will be the sure foundation for your times” (Isaiah 33:6). • Purity: “Let us cleanse ourselves… perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1). • Eternal significance: “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). Closing Encouragement Holy fear is not a relic of Israel’s wilderness but the vibrant pulse of a life that knows God is near, great, and good. As we reverence Him in thought, word, and deed, we discover the freedom and joy He always intended for His people. |
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