What does "fear of the LORD" mean in Proverbs 23:17?

◄ Meaning of "fear of the LORD"? ►

Setting the Verse in Context

Proverbs 23:17 says, “Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always continue in the fear of the LORD.”

• Solomon contrasts two heart-postures: envy toward sinners versus steadfast fear of the LORD.

• The command “always continue” ties fear of the LORD to a lifelong mindset, not a momentary emotion.

Defining “Fear” in Scripture

• Reverent Awe: recognizing God’s majesty, holiness, and absolute authority (Exodus 20:20; Hebrews 12:28-29).

• Loving Obedience: aligning life with His commands because we trust His character (Deuteronomy 10:12; John 14:15).

• Hatred of Evil: active rejection of sin in thought, word, and deed (Proverbs 8:13).

• Beginning of Wisdom: the foundational attitude that opens the door to true understanding (Proverbs 1:7; 9:10; Psalm 111:10).

What Fear of the LORD Is—and Isn’t

Is:

• Deep respect for God’s holiness and justice.

• Confidence that His ways are right and best.

• Motivation to obey even when culture pulls the other way.

Isn’t:

• Paralyzing terror that drives us from God.

• Mere ritual or outward religiosity.

• An optional “extra” for the spiritually elite.

Why It Matters in Daily Life

• Guards the Heart: envy at sinners evaporates when God’s greatness fills our vision (Proverbs 23:17).

• Anchors Morality: “the fear of Him may be before you to keep you from sinning” (Exodus 20:20).

• Spurs Growth: “perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1).

• Brings Security: “Whoever fears the LORD has a secure fortress” (Proverbs 14:26).

Practicing the Fear of the LORD

1. Meditate on His Word daily—let Scripture shape your worldview.

2. Worship with wholehearted reverence—acknowledge His supremacy.

3. Confess sin quickly—keep short accounts with God.

4. Choose obedience over cultural pressure—remember Proverbs 23:17 when temptation to envy arises.

5. Serve others humbly—seeing every task as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23-24).

Takeaway Truths

• Fear of the LORD is a continual, reverent, loving submission to God’s rule.

• It expels envy, purifies motives, and produces steady obedience.

• Living in this fear aligns us with true wisdom and keeps our hearts secure in Him (Ecclesiastes 12:13).