The Fear Of The Lord
Psalm 25:12 ESV says, “Who is the man who fears the Lord? Him will he instruct in the way that he should choose.” The fear of the Lord is powerful and foundational to a walk with God. The more you read the Scriptures, particularly Psalms and Proverbs, the more you see that all the blessings and favor go to those who have the fear of the Lord.
Many people have explained what the fear of the Lord is over the years. I like the way John Bevere describes it. He says, “The fear of God is not being afraid of Him. It is being afraid being away from Him.” I’m sure there is more to the definition of the fear of the Lord than this, but this helps us view the fear of the Lord as something we need to go after and not something that confuses or disengages us.
Psalm 25 has a lot to say about this. Our highlighted verse today shows us that God carefully instructs those who fear him.
I think there is a broader message when it comes to the fear of the Lord. This posture describes what it looks like when a person deeply recognizes the realness and greatness of God. The fear of the Lord happens when we realize that this almighty and all-knowing God is intimately involved in our lives. He can engage with us on a personal level, tutoring us in the Kingdom of God, convicting us of unrighteousness, and empowering us for good works.
On the contrary, one taste of abiding in the vine will leave us desperate and broken if, for even a moment, we had to live without that sustaining power and comforting love.
Part of living in the fear of the Lord is allowing God to discipline us. Again, our recognition of his divinity causes us not to avoid his correction and pruning (painful as it may be) but to desire it, understanding the seriousness and effectiveness of what God is doing.
All of God’s discipline comes with a guarantee: we will produce fruit that will last.
Consider the benefits of living in the fear of the Lord. All other mindsets and lifestyles lead to aimless and foolish pursuits. Proverbs 9:10 (ESV) says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.”
Ask God today to give you a deeper insight into the fear of the Lord. Take a few moments to meditate on these verses and see if the Holy Spirit will speak new or renewed truth to your soul.
Amen.
To get the Daily Invitation sent to you every day, click this link or text “Daily” to +1 (779) 237-3914.
