The concept of reverence is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, reflecting an attitude of profound respect, awe, and honor towards God, His Word, and His creation. Reverence is not merely an external display but an internal disposition that acknowledges the holiness and majesty of God. The expectation of reverence is woven throughout Scripture, calling believers to approach God with humility and respect.

Reverence for God

The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of revering God. In Deuteronomy 10:12, Moses instructs the Israelites, "And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul." This fear of the Lord is not a paralyzing terror but a reverential awe that leads to obedience and worship.

The Psalms frequently echo this sentiment. Psalm 89:7 states, "In the council of the holy ones, God is greatly feared, and awesome above all who surround Him." This reverence is due to God's unparalleled holiness and power, as well as His role as Creator and Sustainer of all things.

Reverence in Worship

Reverence is a crucial aspect of worship. In John 4:24, Jesus declares, "God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth." This statement underscores the necessity of approaching God with sincerity and respect, recognizing His divine nature. The expectation of reverence in worship is further highlighted in Hebrews 12:28-29: "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."

Reverence for God's Word

The Bible also calls for reverence towards God's Word. In Isaiah 66:2, the Lord says, "But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at My word." Reverence for Scripture involves acknowledging its authority and allowing it to guide one's life. The Bereans exemplified this attitude in Acts 17:11, where they "received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true."

Reverence in Conduct

Reverence extends beyond worship and Scripture to encompass one's conduct. In 1 Peter 2:17, believers are instructed to "Show proper respect to everyone, love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king." This verse highlights the expectation of reverence in interpersonal relationships and societal structures, reflecting a life that honors God in all aspects.

Reverence for Creation

The expectation of reverence also includes an appreciation for God's creation. Psalm 8:3-4 marvels at the works of God's hands: "When I behold Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place—what is man that You are mindful of him, or the son of man that You care for him?" This reverence for creation acknowledges God's sovereignty and creativity, inspiring stewardship and care for the world He has made.

In summary, the expectation of reverence is a fundamental biblical principle that permeates the believer's relationship with God, worship, Scripture, conduct, and creation. It is an attitude that recognizes God's holiness and responds with humility, obedience, and awe.