Fearlessly Courageous
Desk of Dennis Piller
8 16 2024
You may recall I just wrote about the Fear of God. But. I woke up this morning thinking with a sense of introspection. In all the fears I listed in the secular world and the predominate fears of Christians, I did not see listed the Fear of God. It was not something that even came readily to my mind. I woke up wondering why, scripturally, as a Christian that wasn’t the first thing that came to mind.
What about you? It struck me that this crucial element is often absent from discussions of fears,
whether in secular or Christian circles.
But today I would like to offer several insights that can shed light on this phenomenon.
First, even though the Fear of God is a concept deeply embedded in Scripture, it can be somewhat misunderstood or overshadowed by other fears. The Bible frequently addresses the Fear of God, often linking it to wisdom, reverence, and respect. Proverbs 9:10, for example, states,
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge
of the Holy One is understanding.”
This indicates that the Fear of God is foundational to a proper understanding of life and faith. However, in contemporary Christian discourse, there is a tendency to focus more on the personal, emotional aspects of faith—such as love, comfort, and grace—rather than on God’s profound reverence.
In today’s modern Christian experience, we often emphasize God’s love and forgiveness, which are central to the faith but can overshadow the more nuanced concept of fearing God. In our culture, which increasingly values individual autonomy and positive affirmation, the idea of fear can seem out of place or even counterproductive. As a result, the Fear of God is often relegated to a secondary or abstract concept rather than being a living, active part of one’s daily spiritual practice. In honestly evaluating all of this, I realized that is very true for me too.
Another factor contributing to this oversight is the modern emphasis on a personal, intimate relationship with God. While the idea of fearing God does not negate the personal relationship believers have with Him, it presents a different dimension of that relationship—one of awe and reverence. This aspect is less emphasized in contemporary sermons or teachings, which often focus on the relational and comforting aspects of God rather than on the profound respect and reverence He commands.
The truth is, The Fear of God is not easy to grasp or articulate. It encompasses a deep sense of awe and respect, which can be challenging to convey in a world that often prioritizes simplicity and clarity. This has led to a diminished emphasis on this important aspect of faith, as it requires a level of spiritual maturity and understanding that might not always align with the immediate needs or concerns of believers. I am personally humbled by the personal revelation of this study.
Finally, isn’t it also true that The Fear of God can be perceived as a concept that belongs more to the Old Testament than to the New Testament Christian experience? However, this perspective overlooks the continuity of the concept throughout the Bible. Jesus Himself spoke of the Fear of God in various contexts, such as in Matthew 10:28, where He advises, “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” This indicates that the Fear of God remains relevant and vital to the Christian faith, transcending both the Old and New Testaments.
For me, life has always been about finding a balance in things. And this concept of the Fear of God was rarely on the balance scale except in worship as my emotions are overwhelmed in Awe of God. But, the Fear of God is more than an emotional response; it is a posture of the heart that recognizes our place before the Almighty. It’s a fear that is a fountain of life, turning one away from the snares of death (Proverbs 14:27)
But I’m realizing with you that I need to adjust my filter in how I view the entire concept of Fear. Truthfully, I need to be intentional about including The Fear of God first in all my filters.
Yes, I always want to say a quick prayer before a meeting or when a problem arises.
But I am realizing more deeply what this entire conversation and concept means to me
in my daily living and so should you. But it will take a more concentrated and deliberate
thinking on our part. This cannot be a concept that someone will remind us of in a
sermon here and there. The Fear of God must become our first filter as we face every challenge, every trial, and every heartbreak. The Awe and reverence we nurture and proclaim in our lives
are the roots that will overcome everything in the world. “For I have overcome the world”. John 16:33
In conclusion, the initial absence of the Fear of God from our thoughts can be attributed to a combination of modern cultural emphasis on comfort and personal relationships, the challenge of articulating reverence, and a tendency to view the concept as less relevant in the New Testament context. However, recognizing and re-embracing the Fear of God as a vital part of our Christian faith will enrich our understanding and deepen our spiritual lives. It calls us to a fuller, more nuanced relationship with God, characterized not only by His love and grace but also by His majesty and authority.
Eccl 12:13 says, “Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good,
or whether it be evil”
I would love to hear how this teaching is touching you?
Michael W Smith Worthy is the Lamb Hallelujah
