Topical Bible: Godly Fear: should be Exhibited in Our Callings

◄ Godly Fear: should be Exhibited in Our Callings ►

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Definition and Importance

Godly fear, often understood as a reverent awe and respect for God, is a foundational aspect of the Christian life. It is not a fear that paralyzes but one that motivates believers to live in accordance with God's will. This reverence is crucial in every aspect of life, including our various callings and vocations. The Bible emphasizes that whatever we do should be done with a consciousness of God's presence and authority.

Biblical Basis

The concept of godly fear is deeply rooted in Scripture. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." This verse underscores the importance of godly fear as the starting point for true wisdom, which should permeate all areas of life, including our professional and personal callings.

Exhibited in Our Callings

1. Work and Vocation

In Colossians 3:23-24, the Apostle Paul instructs, "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." This passage highlights that our work should be performed with a sense of godly fear, recognizing that we ultimately serve Christ in all our endeavors.

2. Leadership and Authority

Those in positions of leadership are called to exercise their roles with godly fear. In 2 Samuel 23:3, David reflects, "The God of Israel spoke; the Rock of Israel said to me: 'He who rules the people with justice, who rules in the fear of God.'" Leaders are to govern with justice and integrity, acknowledging their accountability to God.

3. Family and Relationships

Godly fear should also be evident in family life and relationships. Ephesians 5:21 advises believers to "submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." This mutual submission is rooted in a fear of the Lord, guiding interactions with love, respect, and humility.

4. Ministry and Service

Those called to ministry are to serve with a profound sense of godly fear. Hebrews 12:28-29 exhorts, "Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire." This passage reminds ministers and servants of the gravity and holiness of their calling.

Practical Implications

Exhibiting godly fear in our callings involves a conscious effort to align our actions, decisions, and attitudes with God's will. It requires humility, integrity, and a commitment to excellence, recognizing that all we do is ultimately for God's glory. This reverence influences how we approach our work, lead others, nurture relationships, and serve in ministry, ensuring that our lives reflect the character and purposes of God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Colossians 3:22
Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eye-service, as men pleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Eighteenth Sunday after Trinity Treasure Christians have in the ...
... 13. I, too, wanted to be a pious and godly monk and I prepared with earnest devotion
for mass and for prayers. ... Why should such a one fear death? ...
/.../luther/epistle sermons vol iii/eighteenth sunday after trinity treasure.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... of the tribe of Judah.' There is no fear of Bunyan's ... which Bunyan directs our wondering
eyes, a few should excite our ... to help the faith of the godly in their ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

Period ii. The Church from the Permanent Division of the Empire ...
... He does not say, "We have signified our being buried ... toward love, that perfect love
which casts out fear. ... Why, therefore, should not the Church compel her lost ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period ii the church from.htm

English Version of the Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566.
... to 'work out our salvation with fear and trembling ... age in the earth, and that the
godly shall possess the ... It is requisite, therefore, that we should confess our ...
/.../english version of the second.htm