How can we cultivate a healthy "fear of the LORD" in our lives? Opening Scripture Proverbs 9:10 – “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” What the Fear of the LORD Is—and Isn’t • Healthy fear is awe-filled reverence that recognizes God’s power, purity, and absolute authority (Exodus 20:20). • It is not paralyzing dread for God’s children (1 John 4:18). Christ’s perfect love removes condemnation while intensifying respect. Why This Fear Matters • It positions us for wisdom (Proverbs 9:10; Psalm 111:10). • It keeps us from sin (Proverbs 16:6). • It fuels obedience that pleases God (Ecclesiastes 12:13). • It anchors us in unshakable worship (Hebrews 12:28-29). Practical Ways to Cultivate a Healthy Fear • Awe in Creation – Pause to observe skies, mountains, oceans. Let Psalm 19:1 speak: “The heavens declare the glory of God.” • Immerse in Scripture – Daily reading lets God’s holiness shape our thoughts (Isaiah 66:2b). • Obey Promptly – Choose obedience in the “little” commands; reverence grows when we act on what we know (John 14:15). • Practice Confession and Repentance – Keep short accounts with God (1 John 1:9). Unconfessed sin dulls reverence; honest repentance sharpens it (Psalm 32:1-5). • Cultivate Gratitude – Thank God for mercy you did not earn (Lamentations 3:22-23). Gratitude magnifies His greatness and your dependence. • Engage in Worship and Service – Pour out praise privately and in church gatherings (Psalm 34:3). Serve others as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23-24). • Walk with God-fearing Friends – “Iron sharpens iron” (Proverbs 27:17). Choose companions who speak truth and model holy reverence. • Remember Future Accountability – Meditate on Christ’s words in Luke 12:4-5 and Paul’s in 2 Corinthians 5:10. Eternity clarifies today’s priorities. Keeping Fear from Becoming Terror • Fix your eyes on the cross—divine justice satisfied, love displayed (Romans 5:8-9). • Rely on the Spirit of the LORD, “the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD” (Isaiah 11:2-3). He balances reverence with assurance. Living Out This Fear Daily • Start mornings with a brief acknowledgment: “You are God; I am Yours.” • Let every choice run through one filter: “Will this honor His holiness?” • End the day recounting moments when God’s greatness guided your steps. The result is a life marked by wisdom, joy, and steadfast devotion—the beautiful fruit of a healthy fear of the LORD. |
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