Reverent fear, often referred to as the "fear of the Lord," is a profound respect and awe for God, recognizing His power, holiness, and authority. This concept is foundational in Scripture, serving as a guiding principle for the believer's relationship with God and their conduct in the world.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of reverent fear. Proverbs 1:7 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." This verse highlights that true wisdom and understanding begin with a proper reverence for God. Similarly, Proverbs 9:10 declares, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."

Reverent fear is not about being afraid of God in a terrorizing sense but involves a deep respect and acknowledgment of His majesty and righteousness. It is an awareness of God's greatness and our own human limitations and sinfulness.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, reverent fear is often associated with obedience to God's commandments. Deuteronomy 10:12-13 instructs, "And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD that I am giving you this day for your own good?"

The fear of the Lord is also linked to God's covenant relationship with His people. In Psalm 25:14, it is written, "The LORD confides in those who fear Him, and reveals His covenant to them." This indicates that reverent fear opens the door to a deeper relationship with God and understanding of His will.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, reverent fear continues to be a vital aspect of the Christian life. The early church lived in the fear of the Lord, as seen in Acts 9:31: "Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace. It was strengthened and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, and it grew in numbers, living in the fear of the Lord."

The Apostle Paul also speaks of reverent fear in his letters. In 2 Corinthians 7:1, he writes, "Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that defiles body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." Here, reverent fear is connected to the pursuit of holiness and moral purity.

Practical Implications

Reverent fear influences a believer's daily life, encouraging humility, obedience, and worship. It serves as a deterrent against sin, as seen in Proverbs 16:6: "By loving devotion and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for, and by the fear of the LORD one turns away from evil."

Moreover, reverent fear fosters a sense of accountability before God. 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."

Conclusion

Reverent fear is a central theme throughout Scripture, shaping the believer's understanding of God and their conduct. It is a recognition of God's holiness and a call to live in a manner that honors Him.