God's kind of Fear

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge...”
Proverbs 1:7 

As I was walking from my van back into my home, I could hear little giggles and see little bodies through the window crouched down low by the front door.  I reached for the door knob and turned it but before the door could open an inch I heard, “Rrrrrraaaaahhhhhhhh!” from four giggly children, hands waving in the air with high hopes to frighten me.    I jokingly acted like I was very scared as they quickly wrapped their arms around my waist and legs while continuing to scream.

Fear.  What do you think about when you think of fear?  Are you like me and right away think of fright, horror, and panic?  But is this what Solomon is talking about in Proverbs 1:7, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge...”?  No, when you study the word “fear” you see that “fear” in God’s word is not about being afraid or feeling panic towards God but rather having a deep, genuine, and dignified respect for Him.  This kind of “fear” is an outward display of honor, esteem, and deep admiration for someone. To have this kind of fear for the Lord is the beginning of receiving Godly knowledge which is to gain skill, discernment, understanding, and wisdom. 

We all have times in the different seasons of our life where knowledge and discernment help in our parenting or days where discernment helps us make tough decisions we are facing.  Maybe you are wanting to develop a skill to start a business but you don’t know how or where to best learn or improve this skill.  Maybe today you need wisdom in a situation in your marriage or you are facing what looks to be a great opportunity but you are at a crossroads in knowing what to do. 

No matter the situation you are facing today, the bible tells us the very first step to take: fear of the Lord.    Do you fear the Lord?

Prayer:
Lord, today I choose to fear You.  I choose to deeply and genuinely respect You.  May the words from my mouth and the actions I exhibit show honor, esteem, and admiration for You, Lord.  I want Your knowledge, wisdom, and discernment so that I can make healthy and Godly choices and decisions in my life. Thank You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.