Reverence before God is a profound respect and awe for the Creator, acknowledging His supreme authority, holiness, and majesty. This attitude is foundational to the relationship between God and His people, as it reflects a heart that honors and submits to His divine will.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of reverence is deeply rooted in Scripture, where it is often associated with the fear of the Lord. This fear is not a paralyzing dread but a respectful acknowledgment of God's power and righteousness. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding" . Here, reverence is linked to wisdom and understanding, suggesting that a proper view of God is essential for a life that aligns with His purposes.

Old Testament Examples

In the Old Testament, reverence is demonstrated through worship, obedience, and the observance of God's commandments. The Israelites were instructed to approach God with reverence, as seen in Leviticus 19:30: "You must keep My Sabbaths and have reverence for My sanctuary. I am the LORD" . The sanctuary, as a symbol of God's presence, required a demeanor of respect and holiness.

The account of Moses at the burning bush illustrates personal reverence. In Exodus 3:5, God commands Moses, "Do not come any closer. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground" . This act of removing sandals signifies an acknowledgment of God's sacred presence and the need for humility before Him.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, reverence continues to be a vital aspect of the Christian faith. Jesus Himself modeled reverence through His submission to the Father's will, as seen in His prayer at Gethsemane (Matthew 26:39). The early church also emphasized reverence in worship and community life. Hebrews 12:28-29 exhorts believers: "Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. For our God is a consuming fire" .

The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often calls for a life marked by reverence. In Philippians 2:12, he writes, "Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now even more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling" . This passage underscores the importance of living with a conscious awareness of God's holiness and our accountability to Him.

Practical Implications

Reverence before God manifests in various aspects of a believer's life. It influences worship, encouraging a heart posture that honors God through song, prayer, and the reading of Scripture. It also affects ethical behavior, as reverence for God leads to a desire to live according to His commandments and to reflect His character in daily interactions.

Moreover, reverence fosters a spirit of humility and dependence on God. Recognizing His sovereignty and grace, believers are moved to trust in His guidance and provision. This attitude is captured in 1 Peter 5:6: "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you" .

Conclusion

Reverence before God is a central theme throughout the Bible, calling believers to a life of worship, obedience, and humility. It is an acknowledgment of God's holiness and an expression of our devotion to Him. Through reverence, believers cultivate a deeper relationship with God, marked by awe and respect for His divine nature.