How can we "fear the LORD" as instructed in Psalm 34:9 today? Living in Awe: Understanding “Fear the LORD” - Psalm 34:9: “Fear the LORD, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing.” - “Fear” in Scripture combines reverent awe, deep respect, and humble submission (Proverbs 9:10; Psalm 111:10). - It is never terror that drives us from God; it is worshipful awareness that draws us close while recognizing His holiness (Hebrews 12:28–29). Guardrails for Heart and Mind - Fill your thoughts with God’s greatness through daily Scripture intake (Joshua 1:8; Colossians 3:16). - Meditate on His mighty acts: creation (Genesis 1), redemption (John 3:16), coming judgment (Revelation 20:11–15). - Let His attributes—sovereignty, justice, mercy—shape how you interpret news, culture, and personal challenges. Worship That Shapes Daily Life - Gather faithfully with believers (Hebrews 10:24–25). Corporate worship lifts our gaze from self to the Lord. - Sing Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs that proclaim His majesty (Ephesians 5:19). - Celebrate the Lord’s Supper regularly, remembering Christ’s sacrifice with sober joy (1 Corinthians 11:23–26). Obedience Born of Awe - Keep His commandments because you love and revere Him (Deuteronomy 10:12–13; John 14:15). - Practice honesty, purity, generosity—concrete expressions that reveal you take God’s Word seriously (Philippians 2:12–16). - Make decisions in light of His omnipresence; nothing is hidden (Psalm 139:1–12). Healthy Fear in Relationships - Speak truthfully and graciously, knowing every word matters to the Lord (Matthew 12:36). - Forgive others as God forgave you, aware of His righteous standard (Ephesians 4:32). - Honor marriage vows and family roles as sacred trusts (Hebrews 13:4; Ephesians 6:1–4). Confidence Through Fear - Psalm 34:9 promises provision: “those who fear Him lack nothing.” Trust His faithful care (Matthew 6:33). - Fear dispels lesser anxieties because you rest in the Almighty (Proverbs 14:26). Practices for Ongoing Growth - Daily self-examination: confess sin promptly (1 John 1:9; 2 Corinthians 7:1). - Memorize verses on God’s holiness and love. - Fast occasionally to refocus on spiritual priorities (Matthew 6:16–18). - Serve the needy, reflecting God’s compassionate character (James 1:27). Passing the Torch - Model reverence at home: read Scripture aloud, discuss God’s works (Deuteronomy 6:6–9). - Encourage fellow believers with testimonies of God’s faithfulness (Acts 9:31). - Mentor younger Christians, showing that true fear of the LORD leads to joy, wisdom, and freedom (Ecclesiastes 12:13). |
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