Why is it important to "fear God" when sharing your testimony? Key Verse to Anchor Our Study 2 Corinthians 5:11: “Therefore, since we know what it means to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience.” Grasping the Meaning of “Fear” • Not terror that drives us away, but awe-filled reverence that draws us near (Proverbs 9:10). • Recognition of God’s absolute holiness, justice, and authority (Revelation 15:4). • A continual awareness that every word and motive is open before Him (Hebrews 4:13). Why the Fear of God Matters When You Share Your Story • Keeps Motives Pure – Fear of people produces people-pleasing; fear of God keeps the focus on pleasing Him (Galatians 1:10). – It guards against exaggeration or self-promotion. What you are is already “plain to God” (2 Corinthians 5:11b). • Fuels Compassionate Boldness – “Knowing the fear of the Lord, we try to persuade men.” Reverence compels loving urgency; eternity is at stake (2 Corinthians 5:11; Matthew 10:28). – You speak even when it is uncomfortable, because honoring Him matters more than social ease (Acts 4:19-20). • Anchors Your Message in Truth – Reverence for God’s Word ensures Scripture, not opinion, shapes your testimony (Psalm 119:38). – The Spirit works through truth, not embellishment (John 16:13). • Cultivates Humility and Grace – The fear of the Lord reminds us salvation is His work, not ours (Ephesians 2:8-9). – It produces gentleness and respect, the very posture Scripture commands for witness (1 Peter 3:15). • Strengthens Integrity Under Scrutiny – A God-fearing life backs up a God-honoring message; people weigh both (Philippians 2:15-16). – Reverence helps you confess past failures honestly, showcasing God’s mercy rather than hiding sin (Psalm 130:4). Practical Ways to Cultivate Godly Fear Before Speaking • Spend time in worshipful Scripture reading—start with passages on His holiness (Isaiah 6; Revelation 4). • Ask, “Will this testimony spotlight Christ or me?” Adjust accordingly. • Remember future accountability: “Each of us will give an account of himself to God” (Romans 14:12). • Invite the Spirit to search your heart for pride or compromise (Psalm 139:23-24). The Fruit You Can Expect • A testimony marked by sincerity, clarity, and power (1 Thessalonians 1:5). • Listeners who sense you’re pointing them to God, not selling yourself (John 3:30). • Personal joy in knowing you have honored the One who redeemed you (Psalm 2:11). |
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