What other scriptures emphasize the importance of fearing the Lord? Anchoring Verse Psalm 115:13 — “He will bless those who fear the LORD—small and great alike.” Why “Fear” Matters • In Scripture, fearing the LORD blends awe, reverence, trust, and obedience. • It is never terror that drives us away; it is reverent recognition that draws us close and keeps our hearts aligned with His holiness. Old Testament Passages that Echo Psalm 115:13 • Proverbs 1:7 — “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” • Proverbs 9:10 — “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” • Proverbs 14:27 — “The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.” • Deuteronomy 10:12-13 — “And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways, to love Him, and to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD that I am giving you this day for your own good?” • Psalm 34:7 — “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them.” • Psalm 112:1 — “Hallelujah! Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who greatly delights in His commandments.” • Ecclesiastes 12:13 — “When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man.” New Testament Reinforcement • Luke 1:50 — “His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation.” • Acts 9:31 — “Then the churches throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and were strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, they multiplied.” • 2 Corinthians 7:1 — “Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” • Philippians 2:12 — “Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” • 1 Peter 2:17 — “Treat everyone with high regard: love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.” • Revelation 14:7 — “Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come.” Blessings Promised to God-Fearers • Psalm 25:12-14 — Guidance, prosperity, and intimate counsel from the LORD. • Psalm 31:19 — “How great is Your goodness which You have laid up for those who fear You.” • Psalm 103:11-13 — Covenant love as high as the heavens and compassion as deep as a father’s. • Malachi 3:16-17 — A special, treasured status on the day God acts. Practical Takeaways for Today • Cultivate awe by regularly reading and meditating on passages that highlight God’s majesty. • Let reverence guide obedience; choose actions that honor His character even when no one is watching. • Speak of His greatness with family and friends, reinforcing a culture of holy respect. • Gather with others who share this same reverence—fearing the LORD together strengthens faith and invites His blessing, just as Psalm 115:13 promises. |
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