What does "fear You" in Isaiah 25:3 teach about reverence for God? The setting of Isaiah 25:3 “Therefore, a strong people will honor You. The cities of ruthless nations will fear You.” • The verse sits in a song of thanksgiving for God’s future victory and deliverance. • “Strong people” and “ruthless nations” represent every level of society, showing that God’s glory compels universal response. • Two parallel responses are named—“honor” and “fear.” The pairing helps explain what true reverence involves. Unpacking the phrase “fear You” • “Fear” translates a Hebrew word (יָרֵא, yareʼ) that speaks of awe-filled respect, not cringing terror. • It recognizes God’s unmatched power, holiness, and authority. • Because Isaiah links it with “honor,” the fear here is worshipful and voluntary. Why this fear is the heartbeat of reverence • Reverence begins by acknowledging God’s absolute sovereignty: “The LORD sits enthroned forever” (Psalm 9:7). • It refuses casual treatment of His name or works: “Holy and awesome is His name” (Psalm 111:9). • It moves people, even enemies, from rebellion to submission: “Every knee shall bow” (Isaiah 45:23; Philippians 2:10-11). What godly fear looks like in everyday life – Deep respect for God’s Word—obeying even when it contradicts cultural norms (Joshua 1:8). – Hatred of evil: “The fear of the LORD is to hate evil” (Proverbs 8:13). – Humble dependence: “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12-13). – Joyful worship: “Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling” (Psalm 2:11). A thread woven through Scripture • Exodus 14:31—Israel “feared the LORD and put their trust in Him” after the Red Sea. Fear birthed faith. • Proverbs 9:10—“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” Reverence guides right living. • Acts 9:31—The early church “walking in the fear of the Lord” enjoyed growth and comfort of the Holy Spirit. Fear and grace coexist. Key takeaways 1. “Fear You” in Isaiah 25:3 describes reverence that magnifies God’s greatness and produces honoring obedience. 2. This fear is not dread for believers; it is awe that reshapes priorities, speech, and conduct. 3. When nations—or individuals—truly “fear” God, they move from opposition to worship, fulfilling God’s purpose to be glorified in all the earth. |
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