"The fear of God is the only certain cure for the fear of everything else."
The Bible says, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." (Proverbs 9:10) The question is, what does it mean to fear God? What does the Bible say?
To "fear God" is:
- to trust in God (Psalm 40:3)
- to hate evil (Proverbs 8:13)
- to reverence God for His stunning generosity in forgiveness (Psalm 130:3-4)
- to not fear the harm that others want to work against us (Deuteronomy 3:22)
- to live knowing that God is mighty, majestic, pure, powerful, and fierce . . . and that He is ever "for" me (Romans 8:28-28).
I will "honor the emperor" but I will only "fear God" (1 Peter 2:17), because even the powerful rulers of this age are as dust in the hands of our Creator (Isaiah 40:12-24). Are you afraid? Are there things going on in this world that "scare you to death"?
God says, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9 NIV)
