The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

THE FEAR OF THE LORD

According to Solomon, wisdom is based on the fear of the Lord. Proverbs opens with a similar refrain (1:7), demonstrating that the ability to obey all of the practical guidance found throughout Solomon’s writings derives from the same source — the fear of the Lord. Often attempts are made to soften or minimize the nature of this fear, leading some to conclude that Solomon was merely referring to awe or reverence for God. Yet, the biblical notion of fearing God is far more holistic (Ecc 12:13 – 14). The power and judgment of God should cause frail and fallen humans to have a profound sense of fear and submission to the rightful ruler of all things because it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God (Heb 10:31). Christians should live in fear of God (Mt 10:28), and this fear is manifest in a life of obedience to God’s commands (2Co 7:1). People like Joseph, who are marked by such wisdom, are often referred to as God-fearing individuals (Ge 42:18). Ultimately, however, it is only Jesus whose entire life was lived in the fear of God. Even as he faced death, Jesus willingly laid down his life in obedience to the Father’s plan, demonstrating that his desire to obey God was greater than the fear of a brutal death (Lk 22:42). Empowered by the Spirit, Christians are transformed to fear God, and in so doing, find true wisdom.

Jesus, fill my heart with a wholesome, reverent fear of you, and fill my heart with your wisdom. Amen.