Reverence

This word means “deep respect for someone or something”. I remember the first time I heard a minister called “Reverend”.  I wasn’t sure what to make of it because I knew the minister’s first name. I didn’t mean any disrespect when I used his first name.  I also remember one of my ministers who did not want to be called “Reverend” – he said that was meant only for God, Who deserved our reverence. I think that reverence should be very special and specific. I like it to be reserved for God.

Malachi gives a warning to the priests, whom I would compare to our ministers and preachers today. He makes it clear that they should respect the Lord and show unmistakable reverence to Him. Check this out…

⁵ “The purpose of my covenant with the Levites was to bring life and peace, and that is what I gave them. This required reverence from them, and they greatly revered me and stood in awe of my name. ⁶ They passed on to the people the truth of the instructions they received from me. They did not lie or cheat; they walked with me, living good and righteous lives, and they turned many from lives of sin. (Malachi 2:5-6 NLT)

I think all followers of God should have deep reverence and respect for God. That reverence and respect is shown by actions of love and good deeds.  My actions reveal what I believe about God. My actions show reverence or disrespect.  I want to walk with the Lord today and every day making choices that reveal my reverence and awe of Him.

I can sing to the Lord in awe and reverence.

I can pray to the Lord in awe and reverence.

I can love others out of awe and reverence.

I want to live a good and righteous life out of awe, reverence, and respect for God.

Pressing On!

Dwayne