By Evang. Joachim P. Erameh
Teach your kids to fear and reverence God as they grow (Genesis 18:19). God expects us to fear Him – Job 1:8 says God acknowledged Job for fearing Him. The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10).
What type of fear? Positive fear that draws you closer to God, not negative fear. Deuteronomy 13:4 says it means:
- To walk with God
- Fear Him and keep His commandments
- Obey His voice
- Serve Him alone
- Clave unto Him
- Do His will (Matthew 7:21)
Fearing God restrains us from sinning (Psalm 119:11). Ecclesiastes 12:13 says, “Fear God and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.”
Why Fear God?
- He’s the Creator and Owner (Genesis 2:1-2; Revelation 4:11).
- Without Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5).
- He can cast into hell (Matthew 10:28).
- It’s fearful to fall into His hands (Hebrews 10:31).
- He’s merciful but also a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29).
- If He blesses you, nobody can curse you (Numbers 23:20).
- He is a jealous God (Exodus 34:14).
- He doesn’t share His glory (Isaiah 42:8).
- He is holy and doesn’t tolerate sin (Habakkuk 1:13).
- Our future is in His hands (Isaiah 46:10).
- He controls doors (Isaiah 22:22).
- He is the God of judgement (1 Samuel 22:25).
Benefits of Fearing God
- He reveals secrets to you (Psalm 25:14).
- His eyes are upon you (Psalm 33:18).
- Angels protect you (Psalm 34:7).
- You won’t lack (Psalm 34:9).
- Salvation is near (Psalm 85:9).
- He shows great mercy (Psalm 103:11, 17; Luke 1:50).
- He pities you (Psalm 103:13).
- He gives you what you need (Psalm 111:5).
- He fulfils your desires (Psalm 145:19).
- He takes pleasure in you (Psalm 147:11).
- It’ll be well with you (Ecclesiastes 8:13; Isaiah 3:10).
Parents: teach your kids the fear of God from childhood. Eli failed, and it was catastrophic (1 Samuel 2:22-36, 4:1-18). Examples of God-fearers: Abraham (Genesis 12:1-4), Job (Job 1:8), Joseph (Genesis 39:9).
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