Fear

November 19

Ezekiel 45-46

Psalm 125

Proverbs 27:23-24

1 Peter 1:13-25

Fear

“And if you address as Father the One who impartially judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your sojourn, knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things like silver or gold from your futile conduct inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ.”  1 Peter 1:17-19 LSB

The fear Peter is talking about in this verse is referring to a reverential awe and respect for God.  It is based on the recognition that our redemption was paid for by the precious blood of Christ.  His sacrifice on the cross allows us to stand before God as our judge not in terror and trembling, but in gratitude for what Jesus has done for us.  Acknowledging His willingness to offer Himself to take the punishment that we deserve gives us a new perspective.  Instead of wanting to just escape the punishment for our actions, our desire is an inner transformation that changes our heart and ultimately our behavior.  A transformed life involves a fear and respect for God and His holiness and a desire to live in a way that is pleasing to Him.  For those who have been redeemed by the blood of Christ, we have the privilege of coming before God as children coming to their Father, but we also have to remember that He is Lord of all and He is a just and holy God.  We cannot approach Him flippantly without respect and awe of His majesty.  I always cringe when I hear people refer to God as the “big guy,” “the man upstairs,” or speak about Him in terms of Him being their buddy or pal.  That is disrespectful.  He is not one of us and we should not forget it.  Any attempt to bring Him down to our level demonstrates a poor understanding of who He is and who we are in relation to Him. 

“Let all the Earth fear Yahweh; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him.”  Psalm 33:8 LSB

“Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement on flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”  2 Corinthians 7:1 LSB

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts have good understanding, to Him belongs eternal praise.”  Psalm 111:10 NIV

“And do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in Hell.”  Matthew 10:28 LSB

“The fear of the Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”  Proverbs 9:10 LSB