How can we "fear the LORD" in our daily lives today? Listening in on Malachi 3:16 “At that time those who feared the LORD spoke with one another, and the LORD listened and heard them; and a book of remembrance was written in His presence concerning those who feared the LORD and honored His name.” What “fear the LORD” means • A humble, adoring awareness of God’s holiness and authority (Isaiah 6:1–5) • A heartfelt dread of grieving Him by sin (Proverbs 8:13) • A delight in honoring His name above our own (Psalm 112:1) Why it still matters today • “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7). • It guards us from casual, self-centered religion (Ecclesiastes 12:13). • God notices and remembers those who walk in this posture (Malachi 3:16; Acts 10:2–4). Daily habits that cultivate godly fear Draw near with awe • Begin each morning in Scripture before screens—let His voice set the tone (Psalm 119:38). • Read passages that showcase His majesty (Job 38–41; Revelation 4–5). Speak of Him with fellow believers • Share what you’re learning; Malachi 3:16 shows God listens in on those conversations. • Meet weekly with at least one trusted friend for mutual exhortation (Hebrews 3:13). Choose obedience over convenience • Ask, “What does God command?” rather than “What do I prefer?” (John 14:15). • Practice immediate, cheerful obedience in small matters—how we drive, file taxes, or respond to criticism. Hate evil, cling to good • Keep short accounts: confess sin quickly (1 John 1:9). • Actively flee whatever dulls spiritual sensitivity—media, relationships, habits (2 Corinthians 6:17-18). Honor His name in speech • Refuse coarse joking or careless oaths (Ephesians 4:29). • Speak of God with reverence, never as a punchline or expletive. Serve with glad reverence • Volunteer where no spotlight shines (Matthew 6:1-4). • Offer everyday tasks to Him—laundry, spreadsheets, diaper changes—as worship (Colossians 3:23-24). Practice generosity • Tithe first, not last (Malachi 3:10). • Give anonymously when possible; the Father who sees in secret rewards openly (Matthew 6:3-4). Keep eternity in view • Meditate on judgment and reward (2 Corinthians 5:10). • Let the brevity of life stir urgency for holiness (Psalm 90:12). Guardrails for a lifelong walk Stay rooted in grace • Fear without grace breeds terror; grace without fear breeds presumption (Hebrews 12:28-29). Stay dependent on the Spirit • “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you” (Philippians 2:12-13). Stay hopeful • Those who fear Him “lack nothing” (Psalm 34:9) and “shine like the sun” in His kingdom (Matthew 13:43). Encouragement from Malachi 3:16 today God still leans in when His people gather, revere His name, and spur one another on. Live each ordinary moment as one to be written in His “book of remembrance.” The fear of the LORD makes every task sacred, every conversation weighty, and every day an opportunity to bring joy to the Father’s heart. |
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