A Healthy Fear

Fear is not always a bad thing. It can make me keenly aware of where I am and what I’m doing. It can also remind me of safer choices and better options. I am not super scared of the dark. I do feel like I have a healthy respect for the darkness because of so much unknown lurking there. I am also not scared of law enforcement officials, but I have a healthy respect for them because they carry a weapon and know how to use it to protect the public and also to protect me from myself.

This morning I am reading through the 10 commandments that God gives Moses on the mountain. God’s laws are for people. They protect the weak and helpless, victims of violence and theft. God’s laws also set standards for a good and peaceful life within the family and in the community. After Moses speaks about the 10 Commands from God on the mountain, the people are a bit scared. Check this out…

18 When the people saw the thunder and lightning and heard the trumpet and saw the mountain in smoke, they trembled with fear. They stayed at a distance 19 and said to Moses, ‘Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not let God speak to us or we will die.’

20 Moses said to the people, ‘Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning.’

21 The people remained at a distance, while Moses approached the thick darkness where God was. (Exodus 20:18-21 NIV)

I believe that it is very wise to have a healthy respect and reverence for God. I believe God wants the very best for me. I believe it hurts His heart when I make bad choices that harm me. I was reminded of a verse in Proverbs that speaks to this. Check this out…

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. (Proverbs 1:7 NIV)

A healthy fear and respect for God is for my benefit.

A healthy fear and respect for God is for my protection.

A healthy fear and respect for God is for my provision.

As I’ve grown in my fear and respect for God over the years, I feel like I know His heart. I believe He is for me. I believe in His Grace because I’ve experienced it. I believe in His Mercy because I’ve been a recipient of it. I have a healthy fear of God and I trust His Heart and His Hand in my life.

Pressing On!

Dwayne