In what ways can we encourage others to "fear and reverence" God today? Getting Our Bearings: Psalm 34:11 “Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD.” What the Fear of the LORD Is • Worshipful awe toward God’s holiness and power (Hebrews 12:28–29) • Hatred of evil and of grieving Him (Proverbs 8:13) • Humble submission that produces obedience (Deuteronomy 10:12–13) Why We Must Promote It • The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). • It turns people from sin (Proverbs 16:6). • It brings God’s pleasure and protection (Psalm 147:11; Psalm 34:7). • It is humanity’s whole duty (Ecclesiastes 12:13). • Judgment is coming—“Fear God and give Him glory” (Revelation 14:7). Practical Ways to Encourage Others Today 1. Model Reverence – Speak of God’s name with weight (Matthew 12:36). – Let holiness mark lifestyle decisions (1 Peter 1:15–17). 2. Center Everything on Scripture – Read it publicly (1 Timothy 4:13). – Teach it plainly, highlighting God’s attributes (Nehemiah 8:8; Acts 20:27). 3. Lead Worship that Exalts His Majesty – Choose songs and liturgy that spotlight His holiness (Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:11). – Use moments of silence, kneeling, or standing to embody awe. 4. Share Testimonies of His Works – Recount answered prayers, deliverance, and discipline (Psalm 66:16). – Celebrate baptisms and changed lives (Acts 9:31). 5. Practice Immediate Obedience and Repentance – Confess sin quickly (1 John 1:9). – Pursue daily sanctification (2 Corinthians 7:1). 6. Cultivate Thankfulness – “Let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” (Hebrews 12:28) – Regularly list blessings publicly and privately. 7. Highlight Creation’s Testimony – Point to nature’s grandeur as a visible sermon (Psalm 33:8–9; Romans 1:20). 8. Teach the Coming Judgment – Remind believers and seekers alike of Christ’s return (2 Corinthians 5:10). – Let eternity shape present choices (1 Peter 4:7). 9. Foster Accountable Community – Spur one another on to love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24–25). – Give and receive loving correction (Galatians 6:1). 10. Encourage Sacrificial Service – Serve the needy in Jesus’ name (Matthew 25:40). – Show that reverence produces tangible love (Titus 2:11–14). Living Illustrations to Point Toward • Noah—built the ark “in godly fear” (Hebrews 11:7). • Early Church—“A sense of awe came over everyone” (Acts 2:43). • Jesus—heard by the Father “because of His reverence” (Hebrews 5:7). Summary David’s invitation in Psalm 34:11 charges us to become teachers and examples of godly fear. By exalting God’s holiness in our speech, worship, teaching, testimonies, obedience, and community life, we help others grasp the greatness of the One who is both “a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:29) and the gracious Redeemer who draws near to all who revere His name. |
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