Fear God

FEAR GOD!

      Practically all brethren know that fear God means REVERE or RESPECT Him, but I wonder if we have given proper attention to reverence. In the Greek, PHOBOS meant panic as in flight from battle; or, the opposite of courage; or, awe, reverence -- the feeling of one in presence of an infinitely superior being. The question is, do we truly recognize God's presence, and feel this reverence?

      Reverence for God is obviously the child of faith --- believing we are in the presence of the ultimate superior being. Man may feel an intimacy, a closeness (as child for father) with such a being; but there could never be FAMILIARITY in such a relation. A "Hi, Dad!" attitude, must charitably considered, shows a lack
of appreciation for the true nature of God. Paul charges sinners as having no fear of the God before their eyes (Rom. 3:18).

      Fear of God keeps man reaching for higher goals, for ideals; keeps him living in the shadow of eternity. We sojourn through this life as we seek a country (1 Pet. 1:17). When Christ is Lord in our hearts we testify of our hope with meekness and fear (1 Pet. 3:15). God's presence imparts to the true believer an awareness of accountability and judgment. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of he flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God (2 Cor. 7:1). In God's presence, saints "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling" (Phil. 2:12).

      We are not pleading for externals: for quietness in the church building or cathedral voice tones. True reverence is within, and although it is reflected in behavior, we can not put out what we have not put in. Too much stress on the demonstration for demonstration's sake can only make us greater hypocrites. God desires goodness, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt-offerings (Hos. 6:6).

      Fear (in its bad sense) is cast out by love (1 Jno. 4:18); but awe, respect, and reverent fear will mark those in His presence (Rev. 1:10). ---------- Robert Turner in Plain Talk, Vol. 13, No. 4, pg. 1, June, 1976. Via The Eastside Enlightener, Feb. 15, 2009

Home Page