What does "fears Him and does what is right" mean in daily life? Setting the Context Acts 10:35: “but in every nation the one who fears Him and does what is right is acceptable to Him.” Peter speaks these words in the house of Cornelius, a Gentile centurion. The verse reveals two inseparable traits God looks for in any person, Jew or Gentile: genuine fear of Him and consistent doing of what is right. Defining “Fears Him” • Awe-filled reverence: Recognizing God’s absolute holiness and authority (Proverbs 9:10). • Relational trust: Fearing God does not drive us away; it draws us near in humble dependence (Psalm 34:9). • Hatred of evil: “The fear of the LORD is to hate evil…” (Proverbs 8:13). Reverence naturally produces moral rejection of sin. Daily life snapshots: – Choosing honesty even when deceit seems profitable. – Filtering entertainment that mocks God’s standards. – Beginning tasks with conscious acknowledgment: “Lord, I’m working for You” (Colossians 3:23). Defining “Does What Is Right” • Obedient action: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). • Righteous deeds flowing from faith: “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (James 2:17). • Ongoing lifestyle, not isolated moments (1 John 3:7). Daily life snapshots: – Micah 6:8 in practice: acting justly, loving mercy, walking humbly. – Paying fair wages, submitting accurate tax returns, keeping promises. – Showing practical love to neighbors in need (James 1:27). Living It Out—Practical Steps 1. Start each day in Scripture and prayerful surrender; the fear of the LORD grows as His voice shapes your heart. 2. Audit daily choices: “Is this action consistent with reverence for God?” 3. Keep short accounts with sin—confess quickly (1 John 1:9). 4. Serve someone quietly; righteousness often looks like unseen faithfulness (Matthew 6:3-4). 5. Assemble with believers; shared worship strengthens holy fear and right living (Hebrews 10:24-25). 6. Teach your household: model and verbalize why you choose righteousness (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Promises Attached • Acceptance by God (Acts 10:35). • Guidance and provision: “Fear the LORD, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing” (Psalm 34:9). • Lasting security: “Blessed is the man who fears the LORD… His righteousness endures forever” (Psalm 112:1-3). Summary Snapshot Fearing God = heartfelt reverence that hates evil. Doing right = active obedience that loves God and neighbor. Together they form a daily rhythm—worship that works. |
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