05/11/2023
WHY FEAR GOD?
The reasons for fearing God are found in the different meanings of the “fear of the Lord,” as described above. Although there are different types of fear, part of our respect and awe is in the knowledge of his wrath and power. It’s all connected.
We should be in awe of Him because of His matchless power as the Creator of all things and all people (Ps 33:6-9; 96:4-5; Jnh 1:9).
In addition, the amazing power that He continues to exercise over his creation–including humankind–is cause for fearing God (Ex 20:18-20; Ecc 3:14; Jnh 1:11-16; Mk 4:39-41).
When we truly realize God’s holiness (i.e., His purity, perfection and separation from evil), the normal response of the human spirit is to fear Him (Rev 15:4).
Anyone who sees or experiences a manifestation (i.e., a visible or physical sign or demonstration) of God’s glory cannot help but become afraid (Mt 17:1-8).
The continual blessings we receive from God, especially the forgiveness of our sins (Ps 130:4), should lead us to fear and love Him (1Sa 12:24; Ps 34:9; 67:7).
Above all, the fact that the Lord is a God of justice who will judge the entire human race should be reason enough to produce a godly fear (Dt 17:12-13; Isa 59:18-19; Mal 3:5; Heb 10:26-31). It is a sobering and absolute truth that God is constantly aware of our actions and motives, both good and bad, and that we will be held accountable for those actions, both now and on the day of our personal judgment.
