“The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love,” Psalm 147:11 (ESV). “Blessed fear” is to love God and His pleasure above all else. We fear other things so much, because we fear God so little, and do not “rest in His love” (Zephaniah 3:17). The fear of God delivers us from every earthly fear. Reverence for the Almighty One contains no trepidation, anxiety, panic or horror, only deep respect and humble deference to His nature and Will. Fear of God opens our understanding, fills our lives with true praise, grants peace in every storm and empowers us to love others. Forgiveness is rooted in it, holiness and kindness as well. Lord, You Alone are to be feared, all other fears are vanquished in Your Glorious Presence. My heart and mind are at rest cherishing the one and only “blessed fear”.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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