There are some people who read the words "fear Him" and think that it means God is scary or mean. This isn't the case. However, I'm not a fan of anyone who dances around what scripture is saying so I'll just be blunt in this post. For the unbeliever, fear of God is the fear of the judgment of God and the eternal separation from Him in death. If you are a believer in Christ Jesus, fearing God means something completely different; and this is what the verse is talking about.
For the believer, to have fear of God is to be in reverence of Him.
Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire.
Hebrews 12:28-29
In proverbs we are reminded that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom so it starts with knowing WHO God is and that He is holy and worthy of all praise. He is the creator of all things. Nothing exists without God. He is the alpha and the omega. He is God.
Fearing the Lord means understand that God is a just God and that He hates sin. So to live for the world and for your sin, there should be fear in that, even more so for the believer because we know who God is! However, believers do not have to be afraid of God. His promise is eternal and if you are found in Christ, you are included in that promise.
Fearing the Lord means have such a reverence for Him that it literally changes the way you live your life.
"The Lord favors those who fear Him; Those who wait for His lovingkindess"
In what or who do you put your hope? That's the question this verse should cause you to reflect on. Remember that being in reverence (which means deep respect for someone or something) to God means knowing who He is fully; therefore we know that the only secure place to put our hope is in the Lord.
When you put your hope in things of this world, you are sure to be let down. Whether it's in a relationship, a job, a retirement fund or finances; all those things are of this world and can change.
Jesus Christ never changes. He is the same today and tomorrow and forever. He was and is and always will be Lord. So give your life to Christ. That is where you will find your blessings of hope eternal.
Heavenly Father,
I pray a blessing over those reading these words.
Lord, help us to remember that You are our anchor.
That our hope in You is all we need and that You will never fail us.
You never change. You are always Lord.
Help us to turn to You instead of things of this world.
All praise and glory to You, Lord Jesus Christ.
I lift this prayer up in Your precious name.
Amen.
