How can Proverbs 29:25 be connected to Matthew 10:28 about fear? Setting the Scene Most of us admit to being afraid of what people might think, say, or do. Scripture speaks directly to this tug-of-war between fearing people and fearing God, offering clarity and freedom in the process. What Proverbs 29:25 Says About Fear “The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high.” (Proverbs 29:25) • “Fear of man” is pictured as a trap—something that catches and immobilizes. • Trust in the LORD provides elevation and safety, lifting us above human threats. • The verse draws a straight line between misplaced fear and misplaced trust: fear people, you’ll be trapped; trust God, you’ll be secure. Jesus Deepens the Principle in Matthew 10:28 “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28) • Jesus contrasts limited human power (“kill the body”) with God’s ultimate authority over eternal destiny (“soul and body in hell”). • The command is twofold: stop fearing people; start fearing God. • Reverent fear of God is not terror for the believer, but sober recognition of His supremacy (cf. Psalm 33:8). Connecting the Two Passages • Same problem: misplaced fear (people). • Same solution: redirect fear toward God and trust Him. • Proverbs focuses on the snare of human fear; Jesus identifies its antidote by elevating our view of God’s authority. • Both texts teach that only God has ultimate control; fearing Him liberates us from lesser fears. Biblical Fear: From Snare to Sanctuary • Fear of man = trap, anxiety, compromise (Galatians 1:10). • Fear of God = wisdom, security, obedience (Proverbs 1:7; Psalm 34:9). • Trust and fear are paired: what we fear most is what we effectively trust most. • Proper fear of God anchors the heart, turning dread into worship (Isaiah 8:12-13). Living It Out Today 1. Identify the traps – Notice moments when opinions or threats of others steer your choices (Psalm 118:6). 2. Shift your gaze upward – Meditate on God’s sovereignty and care (Matthew 6:26-33; 1 Peter 5:7). 3. Speak truth to fear – Declare verses like Hebrews 13:6 and 2 Timothy 1:7 when anxiety rises. 4. Practice bold obedience – Make decisions based on God’s Word, not social pressure (Acts 5:29). 5. Celebrate freedom – Thank God for lifting you “securely on high,” beyond the reach of man’s snare (Psalm 27:1). |
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