“Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the LORD, and humility comes before honor.”

The use of the word “fear” in Scripture always calls for clarification. In 1741, Jonathan Edwards preached a sermon titled Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God. He based it on Deuteronomy 32:35. It is considered one of the primary causes of the Great Awakening. That’s wonderful. However, today too many believers—not non-Christians, but followers of Christ—follow God out of fear rather than love. That was a struggle for me early in my journey. I came to Christ because I did not want to go to hell. Before that decision, I was always frightened that I was going there and had no idea how to escape it. When I heard the gospel, I responded. However, I continued to see God as being out to catch me and punish me. I learned and gladly embraced that this “fear” is not about being terrified of God. It means having deep respect, wonder, and submission to His authority. I’m so good with that. Being set free from fearing Him has allowed me to genuinely enjoy and celebrate walking with Jesus. It’s a blast. Today, respect and enjoy your Father. #BeTheEdge

“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” 1 John‬ ‭4‬:‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬