Endurance for the Journey, Featured
The Fear and Reverence of God
Dear Friends of Endurance:
As we continue with our journey through the Discipleship Handbook, we are confronted with the “fear” of God. During my early years of growing up I recall having an unhealthy view of the “fear of God.” I actually thought that God was someone you couldn’t get close to. Years later when I became a follower of Jesus what compelled me to put my trust in Jesus was His desire to have a personal relationship with me! No longer did I feel I couldn’t get close to God because He was to be “feared” but He actually calls me His Friend and I am His.
Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom.
PROVERBS 9:10 (NLT)
Anytime someone encounters God in the Bible, they fall flat on their face in fear; which is actually an appropriate response if you consider it.
This type of fear, however, should not drive us away, but draw us in. In C.S. Lewis’ classic book The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe, one exchange between Susan and Mr. Beaver captures this idea of the kind of fear and wonder that draws you in:
“Aslan is a lion – The Lion, the great Lion.”
“Ooh,” said Susan. “I’d thought he was a man. Is he quite safe? I shall feel rather nervous about meeting a lion.”
“Safe?” Said Mr. Beaver. “Who said anything about safe? ‘Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good.”
We are told in Proverbs that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” Proverbs 9:10. This fear of God is by nature humble, recognizing that God is God, and we are not. When we have humble reverence for God, we are ready to receive and follow His instruction, which leads to abundant life and a life well lived.
As you set your mind and heart upon the all-powerful Creator with humility and reverence, you will find yourself taking the first big step towards knowing God and discovering your purpose and unique calling.
REFLECTION:
When or where do you most often experience this type of humble fear and reverence for God? How would you describe what it feels like?
On the journey with you,
Dave Dravecky
