What is the fear of the Lord?

In a nutshell, the fear of the Lord is to hate evil and everything God hates. (See Prov 8:13)

But, it’s a lot more than that. It’s also forsaking every evil way in our lives.

When we do that, the Bible tells us we have true wisdom and real understanding. (See Job 28:18)

Why should I fear God?

If God is love, and if He is merciful, why should I fear Him?

Well, Jesus Himself gave a pretty clear answer…

Don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.

Matthew 10:28 NLT

Ouch…

So, how do I actually live in the fear of the Lord, and how does this relate to my worship of Him?

God desires us to be completely truthful with Him.

An honest relationship with God brings wisdom because my vulnerability and honesty with God invites Him to pour His grace, mercy, counsel, and understanding into my life.

Behold, You desire truth in the innermost being,
And in the hidden part You will make me know wisdom.

Psalm 51:6 NASB1995

God invites us to not keep our sins hidden.

God wants us to come to the light of His love and mercy, and not hide in the darkness of shame and pride.

All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed. But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants.

John 3:20-21 NLT

God commands us to not have fellowship with darkness.

And what union can there be between God’s temple and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God said:

“I will live in them
and walk among them.
I will be their God,
and they will be my people.
Therefore, come out from among unbelievers,
and separate yourselves from them, says the Lord.
Don’t touch their filthy things,
and I will welcome you.
And I will be your Father,
and you will be my sons and daughters,
says the Lord Almighty.

2 Corinthians 6:16-18 NLT

Sometimes, we may not enjoy a deep and intimate relationship with God as our Heavenly Father because we have not forsaken sin in our lives.

That includes saying goodbye to sinful habits and ungodly relationships as well.

There might also be areas where our mind and heart are not fully devoted to the Lord.

Divided loyalty and affection prevent me from walking in the fear of the Lord.

This was David’s prayer and supplication when realizing that He was not as dedicated to obeying God’s commands as He should have been.

Teach me Your way, O Lord;
I will walk in Your truth;
Unite my heart to fear Your name.

Psalm 86:11 NASB1995

“Unite my heart” means having an undivided heart.

What are the benefits of living in the fear of the Lord?

The fear of the Lord brings a desire to live pure lives.

Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God.

2 Corinthians 7:1 NLT

Living in the fear of the Lord brings provision.

Fear the Lord, you his holy people,
for those who fear him lack nothing.

Psalm 34:9 NIV

What can I do to start living in the fear of the Lord?

When confronted by the prophet Nathan about his sin with Bathsheba, David wrote Psalm 51. Here are some key action steps taken from it:

• Cultivate a sensitive spirit and listen to conviction. (v.3)
• Realize that when you sin, you sin against God. (v.4)
• Ask for forgiveness and for grace to overcome your sinful habits. (v.7)
• Ask boldly and confidently for renewal and restoration from God. (v.10)
• Share your testimony and teach others what the Lord has taught you, so others can repent and be converted as well. (v.13)

So, my friend, are you ready to cultivate an undivided heart that fears the Lord? He will bless your life as you live in awe, reverence, and obedience to Him!

This is the worship He desires!