"The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life, of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1 NKJV
Just a glance at our text today shows us that there is no way that God wants us to fear Him in the negative way. He is our light, showing us the way forward in safety and He gives us eternal life. If God gives us strength - a live worth living, why should we be afraid of Him?
There are various meanings in the Greek and Hebrew for the word 'Fear'. Phobos (Greek) is one. This is seen here:
'There is no fear in love but perfect love casts out fear because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love' 1 John 4:18
This describes possessing God's love which results in a fearless confidence towards God and love for the brethren. The one who knows this love, has no dread of facing God at the judgement. Phobos can mean reverential fear of God and a dread of displeasing Him. In Thomas Nelson's Study Bible 1997 a note on Psalm 128:1 reads:
'The fear of God is an attitude of respect, a response of reverence and wonder. It is the only appropriate response to our creator and redeemer.'
CONSIDERATION POINTS
(1) God does not want us to fear Him in a negative manner. He is our God. However, He must be obeyed and respected.
(2) Fear of God does not bring torment or terror. We receive a fearless confidence towards Him as we stand in awe.
(3) To fear the Lord means to reverence Him and to seek to please Him by obeying His word.
(4) Phobos (fear) can mean having reverential fear of God and a dread of displeasing Him. However, this must not be confused with terror of Him.
Copyright 2022 Grahame Howard.
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