On the evening of August 26, 2024, while I was studying the Bible for the Prayer Day program of the Baptist World Alliance Women’s Department, I received a call around 9 pm from my sister-in-law. She informed me that my brother-in-law had suffered a stroke and was admitted to the hospital. Taking a deep breath, I shared the news with my husband. As we made our way to the hospital, I reflected on the verse, “If God is with us, who can be against us?” In that moment, I felt a sense of peace, knowing that the fear of death is replaced by the fear of the Lord. When we truly know and revere God, there is nothing in this world to fear except for Him. With faith, all things are possible, and whether in life or death, we belong to Him. After seven days on September 2, my brother-in-law passed away, returning to his Creator. Yet I do not fear death, for I know that he is in heaven with the Lord for eternity. Here I want to reflect on the importance of fearing the Lord.
Proverbs 9:10 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
This verse lays the foundation for a vital biblical principle – true wisdom begins with a reverent fear of God. “Fear” in this context does not mean terror, but rather a deep respect, reverence, and awe of God’s power, holiness, and authority. It reminds us that our faith in God is the ultimate source of wisdom, and understanding His character leads to true knowledge.
In the Bible, wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but practical and spiritual insight that guides how we live. When we fear God – when we place Him at the center of our lives, honor His commands, and acknowledge His sovereignty – we open ourselves to His wisdom. This wisdom, in turn, shapes our actions, decisions, and entire way of life, aligning us with God’s will and drawing us into a deeper relationship with Him through Jesus Christ.
As we know, understanding the fear of God is a key theme in the Bible, vital for spiritual growth. This concept goes beyond simple fear, involving reverence, awe, and deep respect for God’s authority and holiness. Below is a guide for a Bible study on this important topic:
1. The fear of God is a profound respect and reverence for His authority, power, and holiness. It’s not about being frightened of God but recognizing His greatness and our humble position before Him.
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Proverbs 1:7)
2. True wisdom and understanding start with the fear of God.
The Bible states that, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. The fear of God encourages us to live righteously and reject sin. The one who fears the Lord also hates sins. In Proverbs 8:13, it states that “to fear the Lord is to hate evil.”Abraham feared God by obeying Him without hesitation, even to the point of being willing to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22:12). Job is described as a man who feared God and avoided evil (Job 1:1), maintaining his reverence for God through immense trials. The Israelites feared God at Mount Sinai when they witnessed His power, which filled them with awe (Exodus 20:18-20).
3. Application: Living in the Fear of God
(1) Daily Reverence: Cultivate a lifestyle of respect for God through prayer, study, and obedience.
(2) Decision-Making: Let the fear of God influence your decisions and actions.
(3) Community Impact: Encourage others to live in the fear of God, positively affecting your family, church, and community.
Conclusion and Reflection
Reflect on how the fear of God impacts our life. Are there areas where we can grow in reverence and awe for Him?
Prayer: Ask God to deepen our understanding of His holiness and help us cultivate a healthy fear of Him in our heart.
For Discussion and Introspection
1. How does a deeper understanding of the fear of God affect your relationship with Him?
2. Can you share a time when the fear of God guided your actions or decisions?
3. How can you balance the fear of God with the love and grace He offers?
