The phrase "those who feared the LORD" refers to individuals who held a deep reverence and respect for God, acknowledging His power, authority, and holiness. This fear is not merely a sense of dread or terror but encompasses awe, worship, and obedience to God's commandments. Throughout the Bible, fearing the LORD is presented as a foundational aspect of a righteous life and is often associated with wisdom, blessing, and divine favor.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the fear of the LORD is a central theme, particularly in the wisdom literature. Proverbs 1:7 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." This verse underscores the idea that true understanding and insight begin with a proper reverence for God. Similarly, Ecclesiastes 12:13 concludes with the admonition, "Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man."

The fear of the LORD is also linked to the covenant relationship between God and Israel. In Deuteronomy 10:12 , Moses exhorts the Israelites, "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." Here, fearing God is synonymous with loving and serving Him wholeheartedly.

Examples of Individuals

Several biblical figures exemplify the fear of the LORD. Job is described as "a man who was blameless and upright, fearing God and shunning evil" (Job 1:1). His life demonstrates that fearing God involves integrity and moral uprightness, even amidst suffering and trials.

The midwives in Egypt, Shiphrah and Puah, also feared God, which led them to defy Pharaoh's orders to kill Hebrew male infants. Exodus 1:17 notes, "The midwives, however, feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt had told them; they let the boys live." Their fear of God prompted them to act courageously and righteously, resulting in God's blessing upon them.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the fear of the LORD continues to be an important concept. Acts 9:31 describes the early church: "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." This passage highlights that the fear of the Lord was integral to the life and growth of the early Christian community.

The apostle Peter, in 1 Peter 2:17 , instructs believers to "Honor everyone, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king." Here, fearing God is part of a broader call to live honorably and respectfully in society.

Theological Significance

The fear of the LORD is not only about reverence but also about a relational dynamic with God. It involves recognizing His sovereignty and responding with trust, obedience, and worship. Psalm 25:14 states, "The LORD confides in those who fear Him, and reveals His covenant to them." This verse suggests that fearing God opens the way to deeper intimacy and understanding of His will.

Moreover, fearing the LORD is associated with divine protection and provision. Psalm 34:9 encourages, "Fear the LORD, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing." This promise reflects the belief that God cares for and sustains those who revere Him.

Practical Implications

For believers, fearing the LORD involves a commitment to live according to His Word and to seek His guidance in all aspects of life. It calls for humility, recognizing human limitations and God's infinite wisdom. Proverbs 3:7 advises, "Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil." This counsel emphasizes the importance of relying on God's understanding rather than one's own.

In summary, those who feared the LORD throughout biblical history were marked by their devotion, obedience, and trust in God. Their lives serve as examples for believers today, illustrating the blessings and wisdom that come from a life lived in reverence to the Almighty.