Readings for today: Joshua 1-2, Psalms 105
What is the fear of the Lord? It appears over three hundred times in the Bible, mostly in the wisdom literature like the Book of Proverbs. It is a reference to reverence, awe, and obedience more than terror but the latter is certain present as well especially among those who do not believe. Take today’s reading as an example. For the people of Israel, the fear of the Lord manifested itself in faithful obedience to God’s commands. For the people living in Jericho, the fear of the Lord manifested itself as terror as the news of what God had done to Egypt and other nations along the way became widely known. For Rahab, the fear of the Lord manifested itself as saving faith as she risked her life to save the spies who came to the city.
If you are like me, you may have experienced any or all of these dynamics over the course of your life. I remember being terrified of God on some level when I was younger. My experience of Him was mediated through an earthly father who was highly authoritarian and often angry and verbally abusive, especially when he was drinking. So when I read about God being the judge who condemns people to hell, I wondered if I was on that list. I knew I wasn’t perfect. I knew I was a sinner. And there were times I was sure I couldn’t be saved. But then I encountered God in a different way when I was in college. I heard the gospel for the first time and my fear turned from terror to wonder and awe at what God had done for me on the cross. After coming to saving faith in Jesus Christ, the fear of the Lord took yet another turn in my life, turning to deep reverence and a strong desire to obey His commands. The longer I’ve walked with God, the more my respect for His ways has grown. I have seen and experienced the consequences of both obedience and disobedience and my heart longs to be more faithful.
Where do you find yourself in your journey of faith? Do you find yourself trembling inside when you think about the judgment to come? Are you eternally secure? Do you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that you will be in heaven with Christ after you die? Have you given your life to Christ? Do you find yourself filled with gratitude and thanksgiving for what Jesus accomplished on your behalf? Has your fear of the Lord turned to a healthy respect and reverence for God’s law? Do you find yourself longing to walk more faithfully in God’s ways? These are important questions to consider today as you ponder what God might be saying to you through His Word.
Readings for tomorrow: No devotionals on Sundays