Have you ever wondered about the phrase “fear of God”? It might sound a bit strange, especially when we often hear that God is love.
Today, we’re going to look at a verse that talks about fearing God, and see how it can actually deepen our faith and change our perspective on life.
But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.
Luke 12:5
At first glance, this verse might seem a bit scary. But let’s break it down and see what Jesus is really telling us:
The Context of Fear
Jesus is speaking to His disciples about who they should truly fear. He’s contrasting the temporary power of those who can harm the body with the eternal authority of God.
The Nature of God’s Authority
The verse emphasizes God’s ultimate authority – not just over our physical lives, but over our eternal destinies as well.
The Repetition of “Fear Him”
Jesus repeats the command to fear God, underlining its importance. But what does this “fear” really mean?
What This Means for You
You might be thinking, “I thought God was loving and kind. Why should I fear Him?” Great question!
Let’s explore what this verse means for our lives:
1. It’s About Perspective
This “fear” isn’t about being terrified of God. It’s about having a proper perspective of who God is – the all-powerful Creator of the universe.
2. Healthy Fear Leads to Wisdom
The Bible often links the fear of God with wisdom. When we recognize God’s power and authority, we’re more likely to make wise choices that reflect our desire to please Him.
3. It Shapes Our Priorities
When we truly grasp God’s ultimate authority, it changes what we value. Temporary things become less important, and eternal matters take center stage.
4. It’s Balanced with Love
Remember, this is the same God who loves us deeply. The fear of God doesn’t negate His love – it complements it, giving us a more complete picture of who He is.
Your Next Steps
So, how can you apply this concept of “fearing God” in your daily life? Here are a few suggestions:
- Reflect on God’s nature. Spend some time thinking about God’s power, wisdom, and authority. Let it inspire awe and reverence.
- Evaluate your priorities. Are you more concerned with pleasing people or pleasing God? Let this verse remind you of what truly matters.
- Trust in God’s plan. Knowing that God has ultimate authority can bring comfort in difficult times. He’s in control, even when life feels chaotic.
- Live with integrity. Let the awareness of God’s authority motivate you to live uprightly, even when no one else is watching.
Remember, fearing God doesn’t mean being scared of Him. It’s about having a healthy respect and awe for who He is.
It’s recognizing His power and authority, and letting that knowledge shape how we live.
Next time you’re faced with a tough decision or feeling pressured by the world, think back to this verse.
Let it remind you of who’s really in charge. When we fear God in this way, it doesn’t diminish our faith – it deepens it.
In a world that often encourages us to fear so many things, choose to focus your “fear” – your awe, your respect, your reverence – on the One who truly deserves it. That’s the heart of Luke 12:5, and it’s a perspective that can transform your life.
Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study
You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms
God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!
As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!
This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.
- Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
- Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
- Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!
