How does Psalm 85:9 encourage us to live in reverence to God? “Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, that glory may dwell in our land.” Reverence: The Gateway to God’s Nearness • “Fear” here means loving awe—respectful worship, not cringing terror. • God promises His salvation is “near” to people who live with that attitude. • Reverence links us to relationship: honoring Him draws His manifest presence. What Reverence Looks Like Day-to-Day • Consistent, heartfelt worship—Psalm 95:6. • Quick obedience to His Word—John 14:15. • Conscious rejection of sin—Proverbs 8:13. • Humble reliance on God in prayer—James 4:8. • Integrity in speech and conduct—Psalm 34:11-13. Blessings Tied to Holy Fear • Nearness of salvation—deliverance, protection, daily help (Psalm 34:7). • Indwelling of glory—His honor and favor rest on the community (Psalm 29:2). • Stability for the land—righteous reverence sustains nations (Proverbs 14:34). • Overflow of joy—“Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling” (Psalm 2:11). Echoes Across Scripture • Proverbs 1:7—“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.” • Isaiah 66:2—God looks with favor on “the one who is humble, contrite in spirit, and trembles at My word.” • Hebrews 12:28-29—Serve God “acceptably with reverence and awe.” • 1 Peter 1:17—“Conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your sojourning.” Putting It All Together Psalm 85:9 calls us to live each moment conscious of God’s majesty. Choosing that posture—honoring His Word, fleeing sin, exalting His name—draws Him near with saving power and lets His glory rest where we live. Reverence is the joyful key that invites heaven to touch earth. |
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