Email 2/6/2023

Proverbs 9:10 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”

God’s word says we shall fear Him. Many people see the word “fear” and interpret this scripture to mean fear as in an emotion of pain, danger, or suffering. Unless one understands what fear of the Lord means in scripture, trying to walk with Jesus will be full of anxiety and confusion. The word fear, as used in proverbs, means “to have a deep reverence and respect for the Lord.”

In my career in Oil & Gas in management, I was sometimes told to do things I knew the Lord would not approve of. There were times I was fearful of people’s opinions, insults, manipulation, jealousy, and bias. They could easily fire me with no questions asked. As a single Mom with sick children, what would happen if I got laid off or fired? I’d rather disappoint God, whom I couldn’t see, than those that I believed controlled my livelihood. One day, I read a passage that really puts things in perspective.

In my career in Oil & Gas in management, I was sometimes told to do things I knew the Lord would not approve of. There were times I was fearful of people’s opinions, insults, manipulation, jealousy, and bias. They could easily fire me with no questions asked. As a single Mom with sick children, what would happen if I got laid off or fired? I’d rather disappoint God, whom I couldn’t see, than those that I believed controlled my livelihood. One day, I read a passage that really puts things in perspective.

Matthew 10:26-28 says, “Therefore do not fear them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. 27 What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light; and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim upon the housetops. 28 Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

Without respect and reverence, it is impossible to achieve and maintain a relationship with the Lord. When you fear God, fear of man has no dominion in your life. We as Christians believe we revere God, but if you had to choose between God or the income, what would be your choice? I chose God and lost my job, but God knew what I needed and opened a door to a position where I excelled in my gifts, and my income increased tremendously.

We must fear God, who can do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask for. But how can we show Him honor and reverence? There are two that I believe are mandatory,

  1. Love God with all your heart, mind, soul, understanding that those who love Him will obey Him.
  2. Exalt Him far above anyone or anything else in your life. Make Him #1 in your life above spouse, children, job, or friends.