For the last two days we have been reflecting on 'the fear of the Lord'. But what does this concept really mean? For me the fear of God means having respect for God because we understand who He is and how dependent we are on Him for our fulfillment and life. This reverence and respect for Him drives us to know more about Him and how to walk before Him. Therefore, one who fears God, knows God and his place in relation to God and obeys His commandments.
According to scriptures, there are many rewards for those who adopt this approach or mindset to life.
- Friendship - The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him, and He makes known to them His covenant. (Ps.25:14).
- Direction - Who is the man that fears the Lord? Him will he instruct in the way that he should choose. (Ps.25:12)
- Knowledge - The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction" (Prov.1:7).
- Wisdom - The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who practice it. (Ps.111:10)
- Protection - The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and delivers them. (Ps.34:7)
- Life - The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honour and life. (Pro.22:4)
- Avoidance of death - The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, that one may avoid the snares of death. (Pro.22:4).
- Mercy - And His mercy is on those who fear Him. (Luke 1:50)
- Deliverance - Behold the eye of the Lord is on those who fear him, on those who hope in the steadfast love, that he may deliver their soul from death, and keep them alive in famine. (Ps.33:18-19).
- Healing - For behold, the day comes burning like an oven, when all the arrogant and all evildoers will be stubble…But for you who fear my name the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. (Mal.4:1-2)
My Prayer
Father thank you Your goodness and Your love. Today we pray with the Psalmist: Teach me O Lord the way of thy statutes and I will keep them to the end. Give me understanding that I may keep thy law and observe it with my whole heart. Turn my eyes from looking at vanities, and give me life in thy ways. Confirm to thy servant thy promise which is for those who fear thee (Ps.119:33-38). We pray in Jesus' name. Aman.