In our spiritual journey, understanding the concept of fearing God is pivotal, yet often misunderstood. Why does scripture recount so many severe judgments, such as the drowning of Pharaoh’s army, or the dramatic deaths of Ananias and Saphira? Why detail the harsh consequences faced by those in the early church for misusing the Lord’s Supper? These narratives are not simply historical records or fear-inducing tales but profound lessons in the fear of God—a concept much maligned in contemporary Christian discourse.
The Misunderstood Virtue of Holy Fear
Today, many shy away from talking about fearing God, preferring instead to emphasize His approachability and friendship. While these are beautifully true, they are only facets of His character. The reverence and awe due to God often lose prominence when we overly domesticate His image. As believers, if we neglect the aspect of fearing God, we potentially diminish our worship and understanding of His holiness.
Fearing God: A Covenantal Promise
In the Old Testament, the fear of God was often tied to obedience and blessing. The Israelites’ failure to fear God led to spiritual waywardness and calamity. However, under the new covenant, this fear is transformed—not discarded. It becomes a sustaining force, rooted in a heart transformed by God’s grace. Jeremiah 32:38–41 beautifully outlines this new covenant relationship where God promises, “I will give them one heart and one way, that they may fear me forever.” This fear is not about dread but a profound reverence that guides our lives.
The Blessing of Fearing God
Why should we embrace this fear? First, it’s for our own good and the good of our children—a promise from God that fearing Him leads to our welfare and blesses those around us. It keeps us from spiritual complacency and propels us towards a faithful living that echoes through generations.
Fear that Fosters Faithfulness
The new covenant assures us that God will not turn away from doing good to us, and He implants the fear of Him in our hearts to prevent us from departing from Him (Jeremiah 32:40). This fear is not about terror but a reverence that keeps us connected to God, aware of His majesty and holiness. It’s a daily reminder of our dependence on Him and His faithfulness to us.
A Call to Reverence in Relationship
Finally, fearing God should not be seen as an unpleasant or burdensome task but as an integral part of our relationship with Him. It is about recognizing His power and holiness, which, when rightly understood, draws us closer in a bond of love and trust. We are to fear God not as a tyrant to be appeased but as the Sovereign Lord who, in His love, has given everything for us, including His Son.
In conclusion, as we navigate our faith walk, let us rediscover the enriching, deep-seated reverence for God that the Bible advocates. This fear does not paralyze but liberates, guiding us into a deeper, more fulfilling relationship with the Creator, who is both our King and our Father. By fearing God rightly, we embrace a life of joy and reverence that truly honors Him.
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Faith Activist
Featured Image by Aleksandr Gorlov from Pixabay
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