Day 4 – 90 Days in Proverbs - Fear and Respect
Proverbs 1:7 [NKJV] The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of knowledge, [But] fools despise wisdom and instruction.
The term “fear of the LORD” is used 14 times in the book of Proverbs – at least that is how many my search came up with. That is almost half of the total of 30 times it appears in the entire Bible. The word used for “fear” hear can mean terror. It can also mean respect.
Our Father God can command both. In times when we see the nation of Israel breaking God’s commandments, especially in worshipping idols and other gods, the Father became a God to fear. His punishments were often swift and devastating. We see our Father God sending plagues, sending snakes, having the earth swallow whole families, sending conquering armies and so much more to punish disobedience. He commands the death penalty for sin. The disobedient should fear God.
But for those who show respect toward God and His commandments and instructions, there is no reason to fear. He sent His only begotten Son to die for our sins. Those who respect God know that we can come to Him for forgiveness of sin and removal of the death penalty at any time because of the sacrifice of Jesus and His precious blood which covers our sins.
Those who respect the LORD, study His word in order to understand it and Him better. We then grow in respect for both. His word gives us knowledge and wisdom. His word instructs us in how to live so that we don’t incur His wrath.
The CSB uses the word “discipline” instead of “instruction.” The Hebrew word translated “instruction” in the NKJV and “discipline” in the CSB is Strongs H4148 and means “discipline, chastening, correction.” According to Hebrews 4:12 [NKJV] … the word of God [is] living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
The Word of God can be cutting. For those who respect it, it is used to cut out our carnal nature, evil thoughts and sin – the parts that God calls us to remove.
When we allow God’s Word to do both the instruction and disciplining, we can proactively bring our sins to God and receive His forgiveness. Then, we have nothing to fear.
Remember the song RESPECT? A little respect for one another goes a long way toward guiding us to be better neighbors, coworkers, friends and mates. Respect for God and for God. It all starts with respect.
Prayer — Father God, thank you for the Bible – Your words of instruction and discipline. I have the greatest respect for your Word. I seek to follow your instructions for me. Please guide me by Your Word, instruct and discipline me through it that I may see my sins and remove them from my thoughts, heart and life. As I bring those sins to You, I ask for forgiveness by the precious blood of Jesus in whose name I pray. Amen
Your thoughts —
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