What is the ‘fear of the Lord’? As a central aspect of our relationship with God (Dt 10:12-13), the fear of the Lord is a reverential awe of Him wherein we acknowledge His authority as Lord of our lives and, consequently, make choices that reflect His character (Lk 6:46). It does not mean to be terrified of Him but to reverentially trust Him because He has accepted us in Christ. When we revere Him, we avoid evil (Prov 16:6) because we hate sin (Prov 8:13). We also love, obey, and prioritize Him when we revere Him (Dt 6:13; Gen 22:12; Job 1:1; Phil 2:12-14).
There are many rewards for revering Him. We are spared God’s wrath (Mal 3:16-17), enjoy His acceptance (Acts 10:35), and are His friends (Ps 25:14; Jn 15:14). He grants knowledge (Prov 1:7), wisdom (Ps 111:10), healing and refreshment (Prov 3:7-8), as well as riches and honor (Prov 22:4; Dt 5:29) to those who ‘fear’ Him. In addition, He gives those who revere Him abundant goodness (Ps 31:19), confidence (Prov 14:26), freedom from worry (Ps 33:8-11), and release from needing other people’s approval (Prov 29:25). Revering Him leads to true ministry (1 Thess 2:4), angelic protection (Ps 34:7) and genuine fellowship with other followers (Mal 3:16).
So how do we obtain an awe or reverence of Him? We need to repent for the lack of it in our lives (Prov 28:13). We must choose to pursue it (Prov 1:29) and habitually have a single-minded commitment to doing His will (Ps 86:11). We must diligently ask for it (Mt 7:7-11 with Jer 32:40). Since biblical ignorance and lack of reverence for Him often go hand-in-hand (2 Ki 17:25-34), we need to carefully study the Bible. We can also guard our thoughts and tongues (Ps 34:11-14 with Phil 4:8-9) as we live in remembrance of Judgment Day (2 Cor 5:9-10 with Mt 12:36).
Revering and loving Him are not contradictory. They go together. They are like two sides of a coin. Let us develop greater reverence for Him.
Instead of being timid, learn to be appropriately bold.