What does "fear the LORD" mean in the context of Psalm 22:23? Psalm 22 in Brief • David moves from intense suffering (vv.1-21) to jubilant praise (vv.22-31). • Verse 23 launches the praise section and summons every true worshiper. Text Under the Lens Psalm 22:23: “You who fear the LORD, praise Him! All descendants of Jacob, honor Him! All offspring of Israel, revere Him!” What “Fear the LORD” Means Here • Awe before His absolute holiness and power (Exodus 15:11; Hebrews 12:28-29). • Deep respect that produces loving obedience (Deuteronomy 10:12-13). • Consciousness of His righteous judgment that keeps the heart humble (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14). • Far more than terror—it is worshipful wonder that draws near, not runs away (Luke 5:8-11). How Verse 23 Unpacks That Fear 1. Praise Him – heartfelt adoration grounded in who He is. 2. Honor Him – give weight to His name in public and private life (1 Samuel 2:30). 3. Revere Him – live in continual, practical submission to His will. Traits of Those Who Truly Fear the LORD • Trust in His covenant mercy (Psalm 22:24). • Glad obedience to His word (Psalm 112:1). • Hatred of evil and love of righteousness (Proverbs 8:13). • Steadfast hope even in suffering (Psalm 33:18-19). Why This Call Matters • Turns lament into testimony—David’s pain becomes a global song of salvation. • Unites all generations of God’s people (“descendants…offspring”). • Opens the door to divine intimacy: “The LORD confides in those who fear Him” (Psalm 25:14). • Secures promised blessing: “The fear of the LORD leads to life” (Proverbs 19:23). Living the Fear of the LORD Today • Regularly rehearse His greatness through Scripture meditation. • Transform anxiety into praise, following David’s pivot. • Speak of His deeds in family, church, and community settings. • Choose holiness over convenience, mindful that the God we revere is also Judge (1 Peter 1:17). Summary In Psalm 22:23, “fear the LORD” is a joyful, reverent, obedient response to God’s saving work—a life filled with praise, honor, and ongoing awe before His holiness and faithfulness. |
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