Love God Greatly: In the BeginningSample

One of the main themes of Genesis is the importance of fearing the Lord. When people feared God, they were given blessings and life. When they turned from and rebelled against God, they faced judgment or destruction. The author of Genesis made this clear in the account of Enoch, showing how his faithfulness to God kept him from even dying a physical death. Those who feared and followed God, like Abel, Noah, and Shem, were blessed while those who rebelled against God, like Cain and Ham, were cursed and received judgment. 

The notion of fearing God means more than reverence or awe. It does indeed mean we are to fear Him. For people like Noah, fearing the Lord meant literally fearing Him. Noah had seen what God was capable of and what He could do to those who turned from Him. Noah feared God. Noah also had a relationship with God. 

When we fear God we do indeed fear His wrath on our sin. But the fear of God also leads to an understanding of His character. God showers His people (and even His enemies, like Nineveh) with compassion and love. He longs to have a relationship with us. Our relationship with Him leads us to know His love, which drives out fear (1 Jn 4:18). 

The fear of the Lord leads to life, and a satisfied life. Fearing God does not mean life will be full of material blessings, perfect days, and healthy bodies. Fearing God means we are satisfied in Him and Him alone in whatever circumstance we find ourselves. Fearing God leads to knowing Him. When we know and understand His love, we are blessed by His presence.

Prayer:

Lord, I do fear You. As Your child, I want to follow You, not only because I understand the greatness of Your wrath, but because I have come to know the great love You lavish on me. You are full of compassion and mercy. Help me be fully satisfied in You. Amen.