a healthy fear
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Proverbs 9:10 (NIV)
Fear isn’t something we talk about in the church, especially the fear of God. We’re not supposed to be afraid of God, are we? After all, fear not is one of the most repeated commandments in all of Scripture. There is, however, a healthy fear of God. This can be defined as a reverent awe for God’s holiness and sovereignty that inspires obedience, wisdom and a desire to flee from sin. It’s not a terror of punishment, but rather a profound respect and love for God that leads to deeper intimacy and connection with Him. This fear fosters a God-centered life where pleasing God becomes the highest priority of our lives.
- When God asked Abraham to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22:12), he obeyed, showing reverence and trust.
- When Joseph was tempted by Potiphar’s wife, he refused, saying, “How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9 NIV). His fear of God kept him from sinning, even when no one else was watching.
- When God met Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:6), Moses hid his face and took off his sandals because he realized he was standing on holy ground.
- Joshua led Israel with the constant reminder to fear and serve God (Joshua 24:14–15).
- Jesus, Himself, bowed His head with tears of blood and declared, “not My will but Yours be done (Luke 22:42 NIV).” His humility and surrender to the will of God are what bring light and life to the world.
When I think about having a healthy fear of God, the gigantic Great Dane my wife’s family owned often comes to mind. She was incredibly friendly, loving and even playful at times. However, when a stranger came to the door, this dog would growl and let out a bark that let everyone, even the would-be intruder, know that she meant business. There was no doubt who was running the show.
And so it is in our relationship with God. We’re invited to experience His never-ending, perfect love, and at the same time be fully aware of who’s in charge. He wants our whole lives surrendered and yielded to Him. He takes the business of holiness very seriously, and He wants us to as well. Love and fear seem to be a healthy recipe for a godly life.
APPLICATION: Pause to think about the holiness of God.
PRAYER: Dear God, help me see You as You really are, that I would walk in Your love and have a healthy fear of Your holiness. Draw me close and help me follow as You lead. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?