What does "fear the LORD our God" mean in a practical sense today? The Heart of the Verse “And the LORD commanded us to observe all these statutes and to fear the LORD our God, that we may always prosper and be kept alive, as is the case this day.” (Deuteronomy 6:24) Defining “Fear” in Scripture • Reverent awe: recognizing God’s absolute holiness and majesty (Psalm 33:8; Isaiah 6:1–5). • Loving submission: gladly placing ourselves under His authority (Deuteronomy 10:12–13). • Alert obedience: quick, careful responsiveness to His Word (Ecclesiastes 12:13). • Holy dread of grieving Him: a sober awareness of His discipline (Hebrews 12:5–6). What Fear of the LORD Is Not • Paralyzing terror that drives us from Him (1 John 4:18). • Casual familiarity that diminishes His glory (Malachi 1:6). • Mere rule-keeping without relationship (Matthew 15:8). Practical Expressions Today 1. Daily worship – Begin and end each day acknowledging His sovereignty (Psalm 5:7). – Sing or read Scripture aloud, giving Him the first word. 2. Moral integrity – Choose truth even when no one is watching (Proverbs 8:13). – Reject shortcuts that compromise holiness, trusting His provision. 3. Humble teachability – Ask, “What does God say?” before opinions or trends (Proverbs 1:7). – Welcome correction from Scripture and mature believers (Proverbs 15:31). 4. Stewardship of words – Speak with awareness that every idle word is weighed (Matthew 12:36). – Use speech to build up, not tear down (Ephesians 4:29). 5. Compassionate justice – Defend the vulnerable, reflecting God’s character (Psalm 68:5; Micah 6:8). – Conduct business dealings with transparency and fairness (Proverbs 11:1). 6. Intentional rest – Honor the rhythm of Sabbath, trusting God over productivity (Exodus 20:8–11). 7. Faith-filled giving – Tithe and give generously, acknowledging that all resources are His (Proverbs 3:9–10). Everyday Scenarios • At work: decline dishonest shortcuts; rely on excellence to honor Christ (Colossians 3:23–24). • Online: pause before posting, asking if the content reflects God’s holiness (Philippians 4:8). • Family life: model repentance quickly when wrong, showing children that God’s standard governs the home (Deuteronomy 6:6–7). Promises Attached to Godly Fear • Wisdom and understanding (Proverbs 9:10). • Strong confidence and refuge for children (Proverbs 14:26). • Provision and protection (Psalm 34:9–10). • Deepened intimacy with God (Psalm 25:14). Growing in Fear of the LORD • Immerse yourself in Scripture daily; faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17). • Recall His past faithfulness—gratitude fuels reverence (Psalm 103:1–5). • Join a community that esteems His Word, sharpening one another (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Regularly contemplate the cross and empty tomb; nothing reveals His holiness and love more vividly (1 Peter 1:17–19). |
    |